This project aims to address the under-representation of people with disability in the Australian music industry by developing innovative, accessible gestural instruments. Teaming up with key industry partner, YourDNA Creative Arts, an accessible arts organisation, this interdisciplinary project expects to generate new knowledge in instrument design, inclusive technology and creative artificial intelligence.

Using mixed-methodologies, expected outcomes include music and performance which is socially inclusive, economic participation, and the health and well-being of musicians with disability. This should provide significant benefits to Australian society by breaking down barriers that hinder their effective participation in society.

The Outcome

Using airsticks technology adapted by Sam Trolland Conduit Bodies was performed by Melinda Smith and Alon Ilsar at the Melbourne Fringe Festival. It explored the relationship between technology and the body, disability, assistive tech and the natural world. The team was awarded "outstanding technical achievement" and Dr Melinda Smith was nominated for "outstanding performer" at the Green Room Awards.

Selected Papers

• Sam Trolland, Melinda Smith, Alon Ilsar, Jon McCormack (2024). Visual instrument co-design embracing the unique movement capabilities of a dancer with physical disability. International Conference on Movement and Computing (MOCO).
• Steph OHara, Alon Ilsar (2025). The Sound Tree Project: Developing Personal and Collective Expression with Accessible Digital Musical Instruments. International Conference on New Interfaces for Musical Expression (NIME).