ABSTRACT
Performing music, communication through music, is a ubiquitous human activity. This chapter explores forms of technology-mediated performance, and the ways in which the intervention of computers and electronics has changed, and continues to change, processes and understanding of music making. It also explores trends and innovations in the design and use of digital musical instruments, with a particular focus on tools which fit a traditional instrumental paradigm where physical actions and sounds are closely coupled in time and energy. The chapter explains the common technical principles and taxonomies in digital musical instrument design before moving on to human factors. One of the most surprising developments in popular electronic music emerged from the use of the turntable. The rise of digital technology has led to digital musical instruments, also known as new interfaces for musical expression after the conference of the same name, and traditional instruments augmented by electronics.
