special-world-issue-1

FEATURE | MUSICBACK TOCONTENTSApollo Ensemble A combination of software and varioussensors make this more of a musical exploration kit thanone single instrument. You can use various wireless sensorsand interfaces, other MIDI instruments and even Xboxgames controllers with the PC software to trigger sounds.Drag-and-drop PC software allows you link cause andeffect on screen, with access to MIDI sounds, audio clips,video, image and even lighting control for those who wantto add multimedia feedback.The downside of the flexibility is that, unlike Soundbeamor Beamz, you don’t get any precomposed content so youneed to put in the groundwork from day one. The upsideis the sheer flexibility and range of controllers available,meaning that after getting to grips with the software you’llbe able to customise this instrument to a range of differentabilities.iPad/iPhone AppsOK, so we’ve cheated a bit as these aren’t really musicalinstruments – or are they? The combination of somesuperb apps and Guided Access make these great touchscreenand movement-based controllers. Guided Accessis a little known, but extremely valuable, feature built intoiPads and iPhones since iOS 6.ThumbjamBloom – devised by Brian Eno, this app produces characteristicallycalming and beautiful ambient music. Againsta pleasing background wash of sound, the user can touchthe screen to trigger piano notes accompanied by bloomingcircles of colour. It’s possible to build up layers of musicalsounds, even if just playing one note requires great physicaleffort.Garageband – Apple’s own flagship music-making app containssome fabulous sounds and extremely realistic instruments,everything from string orchestras to rock bands andworld music ensembles.With some of the more daunting and complex featureslocked away by Guided Access, Garageband is an engagingexperience for all. Also, don’t forget to equip the idevicewith a suitable case to protect it from drops and bangs.It enables you to lock the screen so that the playersdon’t accidentally exit the app or enter a settings screen.To set it up, you’ll need to go to Settings > General >Accessibility > Guided Access (under the ‘Learning’ title).We could fill a whole article with a list of useful apps,but for the moment we’ll stick to recommending just three:Thumbjam – some fantastic musical sounds laid out acrossthe screen. Just dragging your fingers (or thumb!) acrossthe screen produces a very musically rewarding performance.GaragebandAlthough we’ve highlighted the devices aimed specificallyat SEN, there is no reason not to make use of any instrumentthat is appropriate for a player’s needs. The KorgWavedrum Mini and Numark Orbit are both mainstreamdevices but also work just as well as accessible instruments.As I said at the start, if it can enable a drummer like meto compose it can help anyone. ·18WWW.SPECIALWORLD.NET | ISSUE 1 | SEPTEMBER 2014