What inspired you to do this?
The work of the Princeton Laptop Orchestra was very influential. I've been inspired by movement artists and so many hackers, makers and coders.
How long did it take to make it?
It is an iterative process. I learn more about gesture and movement as I go. The hacking of the gametrak is simple and takes 5 minutes. The patching takes a bit longer, but it depends on what I'm making. The ideas and testing take longer than patching.
How long have you been doing things like this?
I've been making software instruments with games controllers for 10+ years.
How much did this cost to do?
I use Max 8 (they have a few different pricing models). The gametrak controller can be picked up on ebay for around £15.
It is a very cheap way to create your own hybrid instruments.
Have you done other things like this?
Yes, check out my youtube videos for more - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k1FznkrjpWg&list=PL2hVNB6jE4P0ILLtJ-uR2ns1yOARcy6bW
What did you wish you knew before you started this?
I don't think so. I'm enjoying the learning journey.
Are there plans available to make this? Do you sell this?
I have some patches on github - https://github.com/jenn-kirby
What’s next?
More on this and making use of other controllers as well.
Resoures?
Gametrak hacking - https://x37v.com/x37v/writing/mad-catz-gametrak-mod-for-maxmsp/
The gametrak tracks the positioning of my hands and using gestural programming I turn my movements into music.