SENTIENT OBJECT is a networked musical instrument designed for up to eight players where performers, each with their own laptop, control parameters of a granular sequencer such as minimum and maximum time between notes, minimum and maximum pitch, and the vectors of quadrophonic panning for each note.  Each player's iteration sends data over a networked connection to a central computer that generates all of the sound and sends it to the sound system.  Because it is networked, this can also be performed remotely over the internet with each performer hering a slightly differnent realization as only control data is sent.  This allowes for very minimal latnecy and during the pandemic, this system was shown to allow for very musically satisfying experiences during a time when normal modes of music making were rendered impossible.  

Originally, the system was designed with performers needing to manipulate parameters with a series of number boxes that could also be controlled with a MIDI control device.  The control device needed to be setup and the perforner needed to set all the MIDI CC numbers to match their preferred device which was tedious but also did not create a very ergonomic experience as the performers would have to remember which faders controlled what parameters.  A "match between the system and the real world" was not really possible with this modality. 

The new design was tested by a group of performers who engaged in an active performance and then filled out a survey.  Several performances including student performers have occurred since the original test.