Sonic Interactions - Towards Accessible Digital Music-Making

Can tangible computer music interfaces inspire creativity and enhance artistic stage performances for visually impaired and blind musicians? What are the benefits of engaging with tangible interfaces in the context of computer music and accessibility? This paper presents the research project Tangible Signals and its results. It summarizes the research process including the development of an accessible music software, the design of three tangible user interfaces and their use in workshops, expert feedback sessions and artistic live performances by visually impaired and blind individuals. The resulting material is grouped into four key topics and will be presented in detail. This includes a discussion of inclusion and computer music, sonic interaction with tangible interfaces, observations of artistic practice and suggestions for future use cases.