HarmonicThreads: a formative evaluation of a fabric-based digital musical instrument toward inclusive music-making

The research introduces HarmonicThreads, a prototype fabric-based digital musical instrument designed to facilitate inclusive music-making. This instrument leverages tactile interfaces, fabric deformation, projected visuals, and assisted accompaniment to support participation across diverse physical abilities and musical backgrounds, offering an alternative to conventional rigid or screen-based digital instruments.

This development highlights the growing strategic importance of designing technologies that cater to diverse user needs and abilities, particularly in fields like education, arts, and therapy. It signals a shift towards more inclusive design principles that can broaden participation and engagement across various societal groups.

Inclusive music-making necessitates instruments accommodating varied physical abilities, musical experience levels, and forms of participation.

Forward consideration, not a verified fact.