MIDI Controllers - A New Musical Era in the Peripheries

April 30th 2024
Video
Region
Northeast Brazil
Researcher
Context
JACA Collective
Formats
Archive of the future
Music
Multimedia
Disciplines
Musicology
Technology
Ethnomusicology
Themes
Sound repatriation
Cooperation
Restoration

Let's learn a little about the impact and importance of musical controllers developed within Coletivo JACA in Cajazeiras, Northeast Brazil, in 2024

Customized interfaces/instruments to control computers with music production software sending musical data through the MIDI protocol and Arduino boards, which are small computers, known as microcontrollers, which are designed to facilitate the creation of electronic and automation projects. 

What makes them popular is their ease of use and flexibility, allowing even people with no programming experience to create interactive devices such as music controllers, robots, temperature sensors, monitoring systems, and more. The controllers not only provide a unique musical experience, but also demonstrate a new era in music production developed in the peripheries and how technology can be accessible and creative, even with limited resources. 

Furthermore, the project highlights the importance of recycling technological waste to reduce environmental impact and involves students in a profound way, sparking interest and reflection on important issues, such as sustainability and the role of youth in social transformation. The JACA Collective provided an experimental experience with the Naomar Alcântara State School, presenting the controllers in action in an educational way, bringing happiness and self-esteem to our children who practiced music.

The educational and inspiring experiences not only provide a unique learning and reflection experience, but also encourage, including the Collective, teachers and students, to further explore their musical and creative abilities. This initiative has captivated dreamy minds and has certainly left lasting marks on the youth of Cajazeiras, demonstrating the power of collaboration, innovation and environmental and technological awareness.