micro:bit Orchestra
Check it here: bit.ly/microbitorchestra
The micro:bit orchestra is an orchestra of robot instruments and algorithmic musicians based on the micro:bit. The orchestra exists as permanent installations in museums, but is also easy to build and set up in schools or at home. It is used in teaching, to compose music and play concerts, and as an interactive art installation.
(it's robots) This is an ongoing project that aims to teach creative programming with music as the foundation. The micro:bit orchestra encompasses permanent installations, code framework/makecode extension for education and experimentation and whatever musical robots and sound sculptures kids and adults come up with. I am currently working on building a third permanent installation for a museum in Norway, and writing a commisioned piece for the Oslo contemporary music festival "Ultima" using portable micro:bit orchestra sculptures.
Frequently Asked Questions
What inspired you to do this?
I was asked if I could do something cool with microbit and music by the Norwegian Museum of Science and Technology.
How long did it take to make it?
One summer holiday
How long have you been doing things like this?
Almost 20 years
How much did this cost to do?
Erm... probably about 1000USD ish
Have you done other things like this?
I have built another similar installation in Tromsø and I am currently building one for Jaermuseet.
What did you wish you knew before you started this?
I'm glad i didn't know what a pain in the butt it was going to be to get timing sensitive real time things to work well on the micro:bit.
Are there plans available to make this? Do you sell this?
There are a series of YouTube videos documenting parts of the project. I am still making insallations like this for museums and other institutions.
What’s next?
Proper 6 voice polyphonic, 3 part multitimbral subtractive synthesis on the micro:bit.
Resoures?
Lasercutters, PCB manufacturers, the museums workshops and
just the internet in general.
Captain Credible : Maker, Composer, Artist, Educator, etc
The maker Captain Credible
I have been composing and performing since 2004. I build electronic instruments and musical robots. I also make sound sculptures and installations in museums and other spaces.
Connect with
How I can help you:
I can help people create kinetic musical sculptures and orchestrate them in a musical way. I hold workshops, play concerts and hold talks. I also sell kits here: https://captain-credible.myshopify.com/collections/all
How you can help me:
Follow me on instagram, youtube and so on. Build some musical robots! make some seqiences throught the micro:bit orchestra online interface: https://www.captaincredible.com/SEQ/index.html
If you like this project, please make a small donation to the artist.