Open Band: A Platform for Collective Sound Dialogues

Abstract

Open Band is a web-based platform for collective "sound dialogues" designed to provide audiences with empowering experiences through music. The system draws on interactive participatory art and networked music performance by engaging participants in a sonic web "agora" in collocated and/or remote gatherings, regardless of musical level. In this paper, we present our artistic intent grounded in Eco's concept of Open Works and the initial design of a web-based open environment that supports social musical interactions. Interaction operates by means of a multi-user live chat system that renders textual messages into sounds. Feedback gathered across several public participatory performances was overall positive and we identified further design challenges around personalization, crowd dynamic and rhythmic aspects.