The Orbitar

Abstract

The Orbitar is a new multimedia musical instrument rooted in the ancient art of poi spinning. It is comprised of three components: The Satellites, sound and light generating musical instruments modeled after traditional poi, The Controllers, gloves and a headset which shape the sound and light parameters, and The Console, the receiver for the data coming from The Satellites and The Console, which ultimately creates the final audio output. The Orbitar is a powerful new invention for creating live audio and visual compositions drawing upon 1) the act of play, an important tool for sculpting the brain and reconciling cognitive difficulties, 2) the creation of audio compositions through corporeality and voice, a connection to ritualistic tradition and an important tool for priming the auditory cortex to more effieciently process information, and 3) the use of non-habitual movement and multiple sense, an important tool for relating to the outside world and breaking mechanical tendencies. This paper will 1) outline the history of poi spinning and explain poi’s correlation to flow state, 2) describe the influences behind The Orbitar, 3) layout the theoretical, scientific, artistic, and technological goals as well as the practical applications, 4) outline the debut performance of The Orbitar, OrbitAra, 5) list the project materials and costs, 6) provide a summary, conclusions, and recommendations for future research, and 7) display diagrams and a bibliography.