Without the glitz of an over-the-top pyrotechnics or laser addition to a concert, one can focus more on the music and the artist's interpretation rather than other visual distractions. Apparently a new breed of reputable pianists agree.
Mr. Gary Toth has invented a novel light for piano keyboards he calls the Luma Klavier (US patent pending number UA 286-14). First, from the performer's perspective, this light is seriously desirable. While some pianists prefer playing with their eyes closed memorizing not only key positions but also an entire musical score, others prefer to watch their hand movements and refer to sheet music. And if you know anything about conventional keyboard lighting, non-uniformity and glare can further complicate an otherwise already complex performance. This light relieves this level of complication by creating a uniform, shadow-free glow over all of the keys. So as not to overwhelm the artist in a low-light performance, the intensity of this light is infinitely adjustable. Too bright? Turn it down. Too dim? Turn it up. And when an artist is comfortable, the creative juices freely flow. Brilliant!
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| The Luma Klavier Dimable LED Piano Light |
Second, this invention creates a new illumination statement in live performances and may find its way into other venues. Just like adding lasers to rock concerts or black-and-white photos in a color world, adding a visual thrill to the attendance of a concert changes your perception of that performance by engaging or disengaging more or less of your senses. In concerts such lighting techniques are desired by musicians and expected from a seasoned audience perspective. Yes, with such Spartan lighting you cannot observe the artist in a concert as you "normally" would, but I believe that's the point. Think of the lightning techniques used by someone like Blue Man Group, just the total opposite; a minimalist approach. The Zen of stage lighting if you will; a modern-day candelabra. I'm suspect Liberace would lust after one if he were still alive.
Options for sheet-music illumination and expandable lengths to fit various-sized keyboards are in the works, all running from self-contained battery power (think no cords). Dim-ability is of course standard as are models for electronic keyboards with reach-through capabilities and stand mounts. RGB color versions and DMX lighting protocol compatibility are also in the mix.
Time will tell if Gary has an invention that pianists/musicians/concert halls will embrace. However, from the feedback he has already received on the concerts he produces at the University of Alaska, it appears that there are many artists who already prefer to employ his novel idea. I personally think this is a winner and from the plans he's shared with me, I also believe in the direction he is going.
His brief YouTube video demonstrates this invention. Although still on the drawing boards, this product will - as they say - be available soon. If you want one, please contact Adam Krynicki at telephone number 907-474-2626 or email Adam at akrynicki@alaska.edu
Yours for higher fidelity,
Philip Rastocny
I do not use ads in this blog to help support my efforts. If you like what you are reading, please remember to reciprocate by purchasing one of my eBooks or through a PayPal donation, My newest title is called Where, oh Where did the Star of Bethlehem Go? It’s an astronomer’s look at what this celestial object may have been, who the "Wise Men" were, and where they came from. Written in an investigative journalism style (like that of the Discovery Channel), it targets one star that has never been considered before and builds a solid case for its candidacy.
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Copyright © 2015 by Philip Rastocny. All rights reserved.
Philip Rastocny
I do not use ads in this blog to help support my efforts. If you like what you are reading, please remember to reciprocate by purchasing one of my eBooks or through a PayPal donation, My newest title is called Where, oh Where did the Star of Bethlehem Go? It’s an astronomer’s look at what this celestial object may have been, who the "Wise Men" were, and where they came from. Written in an investigative journalism style (like that of the Discovery Channel), it targets one star that has never been considered before and builds a solid case for its candidacy.
Copyright © 2015 by Philip Rastocny. All rights reserved.
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