DIA: Do It A Cappella and iDIA

Premise / Idea

Very little objective feedback in a capella rehearsal
Singers need a way to visualize their performance so they can reflect upon it
Need a visual feedback system for a cappella singers that can be used alone or together as an ensemble
Learning tool to train the voice and the ears are very helpful
Want management tools which a director can use to better monitor performers

A large population of amateur a cappella singers who lack the necessary ear training to effectively self-correct
Need for an objective method of performance evaluation to eliminate confusion over "who's hearing it right"
Desire to explore basic real-time audio information retrieval techniques
The appeal of a game that can help you improve!

Above all, DIA is a real-time visualization tool for use by one or more vocal performers
A network application allowing multiple singers to use laptops to see personalized visualizations provided by a host computer
Vocal training application providing error and deviance visualization and post-performance statistics
A music learning tool for people who can't read music
Or, for those who just want to have fun!

Multi-track MIDI file loaded on start-up, to which voices are to be compared
Multiple inputs connect to one host computer (Server/Director)
Networked client computers can connect to the Server
Clients, however, do almost no processing, but instead display information sent from the server
Clients will receive channel-specific data from the server, like pitch
Pitch information will be determined by implementing a version of the YIN pitch detection algorithm
Clients may also listenfor data from other users
Performance error will be calculated with respect to deviation from MIDI arrangement
Deviation from both the closest note and the 'correct' midi note are represented both numerically and visually

The Harmonics, a Stanford a cappella group, will be able to put DIA through comprehensive, rigorous testing (hopefully starting this Winter)
System allows for easy addition of features
As the program becomes more comprehensive, it will have added value for the user
Effectiveness of execution will be judged based on ability to provide accurate and useful visual feedback to the user

 - Charlie Forkish
 - Jay Bhat

DATE 1: 11/15 - accurate and robust implementation of YIN pitch detection algorithm with one input and playback of midi files
DATE 2: 12/4 - support for multiple inputs and polished visual feedback
DATE 3: 12/10 - distribution to multiple client computers over network and statistics report