Hollywood's Vicon Cameras Analyse Pianist's Music

Kung Fu fans have always known the importance of copying the techniques of their master. It is a way in which every student is able to develop his own style by mimicking his/ her teacher. On similar lines, #-Link-Snipped-# are trying to understand the uniqueness of every piano player by using advanced techniques called Hand And Wrist Kinematics (HAWK). The concept is to know how piano players are able to generate music unique to them.

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Image Credit: PianoWorld

The technique does not read mind but is well adept at analyzing hands. The equipment consists of #-Link-Snipped-# #-Link-Snipped-# and instruments found in a motion capture laboratory! The research is led by renowned pianist David Owen Norris and Health Sciences academic Dr Cheryl Metcalf. The duo also wishes to develop ways that will enable pianists counter problems related to their wrists. Norris, who is also a world renowned pianist, believes that HAWK will lead them to find ways to avoid repetitive strain injury.

Motion studies are a common phenomenon in manufacturing sector where wasteful motions are prevented. It is the first time that the techniques are applied on individual pianists. Of course the skill acquired by an individual depends on his dedication towards music; the study is only aimed at understanding how and why one musician is different from the other.

If you are any piano enthusiast and wish to know more about it, do attend photocall at #-Link-Snipped-# on Monday 23 January between 1:30 P.M and 3:30 P.M. The live demonstration will include David Norris playing the piano and Dr. Metcalf describing his motions.