Visual analytics for rock band practice sessions

Abstract

When preparing for a performance, practice sessions are when the bands get to improve. However, these are only transitory and not usually recorded, as opposed to live performances, which are recorded and analyzed by the band. This reduces the space for improvement and decreases the resources to get feedback from. Thus, we propose a solution in which bands can store the recordings of their instruments, process them, and display visual analytics from different aspects such as tempo, pitch, and entries. We carried out a design study with a newcomer rock band for over six months by recording their practices and a live performance. We showed them how they kept track of the tempo, the entries and pauses of the songs they practiced, and the vocalist’s pitch while receiving constant feedback from them to improve the visualizations. After a final evaluation with them, we conclude that our solution helped the band improve individually and as a group, by being more conscious about their playing while having available a valuable tool to get feedback.