A modular electromechanical string instrument developed for sustained sound, programmable glissandi, multichannel output and feedback relationships between strings.
The Misfit Harp has changed substantially since its first integrated version. The timeline below separates early experiments from the system currently used in performance.
The research began with the problem of performing dense sustained string textures, glissandi and changing spatial relationships with one performer. Earlier experiments with Sustain Puppeteer established electromagnetic sustain, motor-controlled string tension and cross-feedback as a practical vocabulary.
The early Misfit Harp used the amplifier boards shown below, a wearable glove controller, and a matrix-mixer concept for routing the instrument’s strings and signals. These belong to the Misfit Harp development history, but are not part of the current performance setup.
The instrument developed into a modular aluminium framework with movable string, pickup, driver and mechanical modules. The exposed structure makes tuning, routing and physical adjustment part of the ongoing compositional process.
Solo presentation and performance at Korzo, The Hague. The full concert documentation is embedded below.
The Misfit Harp was used as part of Spaceship Ensemble at November Music / Willem Twee, placing the instrument inside a larger ensemble of conventional, electronic and custom-built instruments.
Guitar and Misfit Harp with Spaceship Ensemble at Festival Dag in de Branding in Korzo.
A direct recording of the Misfit Harp, documenting coupled strings, feedback behaviour and mechanical pitch movement. The recording can be played directly here.