Quantitative evaluation of aspects of embodiment in new digital musical instruments

Abstract

This paper discusses a quantitative method to evaluate whether an expert player is able to execute skilled actions on an unfamiliar interface while keeping the focus of their performance on the musical outcome rather than on the technology itself. In our study, twelve professional electric guitar players used an augmented plectrum to replicate prerecorded timbre variations in a set of musical excerpts. The task was undertaken in two experimental conditions: A reference condition, and a subtle gradual change in the sensitivity of the augmented plectrum which is designed to affect the guitarist’s performance without making them consciously aware of its effect. We propose that players’ subconscious response to the disruption of changing the sensitivity, as well as their overall ability to replicate the stimuli, may indicate the strength of the relationship they developed with the new interface. The case study presented in this paper highlights the strengths and limitations of this method.