Towards forming communities using wearable musical instruments

Abstract

We describe the design and applications of CosTune (costume+tune), which is a novel wearable musical instrument. A CosTune is not only a personal wearable musical instrument but also is equipped with wireless communications functions to communicate with other CosTunes. A prototype system is also described. Music is a powerful communications medium, therefore, we designed CosTune as a communications tool. CosTune users can make collaborative compositions and perform ad hoc sessions with others who share similar musical tastes. Thus, CosTune may foster a novel musical culture as well as support the formation of communities mediated by music.