A tangible score is simultaneously interface and composition in that musical instruction is encoded into the body of the instrument itself. My Master's Thesis explored this concept through the design of a system for composing and performing tangible graphic scores. The finished device utilizes modular textured surfaces in conjunction with interactive compositional structures, exploring aspects of indeterminacy, simulated physics systems, and the notion of utilizing traces of previous performances as the basis for future compositions.
For more information on the project and design of the system, the paper can be found here. The paper begins by examining pertinent historical work, and related research to the topic, and discusses the conceptual, aesthetic and motivational factors that influenced the compositional decisions. The development of the system is documented, outlining design considerations, and stepping through initial ideas and iterations, up to the final implementation of the system.
The following is from the performance in the DMC Video Studio: