Kibo: A MIDI Controller with a Tangible User Interface for Music Education

Abstract

This paper presents Kibo, a MIDI controller equipped with a simplified tangible user interface. Entirely made of wood, Kibo presents eight geometric extractable solids that can be used to trigger note events and to control musical parameters. In the framework of the cooperation with the Music Informatics Lab of the University of Milan, the distinctive features of the device and their applicability to the field of music education have been investigated. Kibo aims to offer intuitive interaction with music parameters and fosters the acquisition of specific skills in a non-formal learning environment. Benefits are particularly evident for specific target categories of users, including preschool and primary school children and people with both physical and cognitive special needs.