Simple PyPortal-based loop/sequencer controller for Apple GarageBand.
I'm currently working on the electronics for an art installation that will be happening this spring in my hometown. The project is a fusion of metalworking sculpture and technology for the purpose of creating an engaging discovery and play attraction for kids in a local park.
The PyPortal makes an excellent prototype for the touch sensors / human interface that the real project will have. For the sake of ease and expediency, I wanted to use GarageBand to create a simple multi-track song that I can loop.
GarageBand doesn't provide much in the way of external controls, but it IS possible to navigate up and down the tracks via arrow keys and mute/umute each track with the "M" key. So, using that crude form of navigation and control, I am sending HID keycode commands from the PyPortal that jump to the desired track, toggle the mute status, then return to the top of the track list.
There are a number of ways to improve this approach, but it's good enough to demonstrate proof of concept.
Read about the art exhibit: Trolling for Whimsey - Altoona’s River Prairie to get interactive sculptures of mythical monsters
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