Family ensemble

Abstract

In this paper we propose a collaborative musical edutainment system named "Family Ensemble" (FE). FE allows a parent and his/her child to readily enjoy ensembles together at home, in this case, a piano duo, even if the parent has little or no experience in playing a musical instrument. FE makes it easier for the parent to correctly perform given melodies along with his/her child's performance, using a score-tracking algorithm that can cope with the particular errors commonly made by beginners, i.e., children. By supporting the parent, FE prompts the child to practice the musical instrument more willingly. In experiments, we confirmed that FE can facilitate the playing of duos by pre-instrumental performers and beginners. Furthermore, we found, during a joint practice using FE, that some subjects discussed musical ideas that they could not have talked about without the system. Thus, not only does FE encourage children to willingly practice the piano but it also allows even pre-instrumental performers and beginners to aim for richer musical expression and a deeper understanding and appreciation of music.