Sketchytuna: Exploring a design for screenless creativity

In this paper we explore the idea of transforming a portable speaker into an interactive music sketch pad using low and high fidelity prototyping. We present research into the current state of the art of musical sketch pads and specify the requirements for a new concept based on pressure-sensitive conductive fabric. We developed a virtual prototype and subjected it to user testing. Results from the user test led to the design and implementation of a high fidelity prototype based on a single-board computer with an additional audio interface communicating with a custom embedded MIDI controller. A real-time, loop-based musical software platform was developed as part of the high fidelity prototype. Finally, user test results are presented and discussed.