Violin MIDI Controller
I do electronic music. And I'm a fiddler, not a keyboardist. I suck at keyboards.
I really want to use a violin as a MIDI controller to replace using a keyboard controller. The only game in town for what I'm looking for seems to be Zeta. I'm considering buying one of their MIDI violins and the MIDI controller rack.
Before I drop that kind of cash, though, I need to know if it will really do what I want. I'm not looking for a simple pitch-to-MIDI controller, I need to modulate synth parameters with my bowing. For instance, with a keyboard controller you can modulate the filter resonance with velocity...I want to be able to do the same, but have it respond to my bowing rather than key velocity.
Is that possible? Will the Zeta set-up do what I'm looking for?
Violin Synth Controllers
Hi Marklar,
I work with Keith McMillen, who founded Zeta. He's now inventing new toys that may solve your problems.
The first thing of interest is K-Bow - a bluetooth sensor bow that acts like a MIDI controller. You can map your bowing techniques and gestures to control parameters for soft synths, audio, midi, lighting, video, your toaster, etc.
http://www.keithmcmillen.com/kbow
Secondly, I don't think Zeta still manufacturers the Synthony MIDI controllers you are referring to, so take a look at the StringPort. If you end up getting a Zeta, the StringPort will plug into its built-in 13-pin port, and carry 4 channels of audio and synth control messages into your computer via USB.
http://www.keithmcmillen.com/stringport
Lastly, you may want to check out Marielle's work and consider contacting her. She plays violin in Keith's trio, and demonstrated the StringPort and the K-Bow at the NAMM show a couple weeks ago: http://www.mariplasma.com
I hope this information helps, good luck!
Mike
Mike Zawitkowski
Keith McMillen Instruments
www.keithmcmillen.com