The Seaboard Grand is on course to changing the way people interact with musical instruments. It is essentially a keyboard piano that boasts a soft continuous surface in place of the instrument's typical black and white keys. The undulating surface may seem very abstract, but Trenland notes: "The Seaboard [Grand]’s polyphonic pitch bend, vibrato and per-note dynamic changes are all available at your fingertips, marrying the intuitiveness of a traditional instrument with the versatility of digital technology."
Designed by Roli, a London-based company founded in 2009 by Roland Lamb, the Seaboard Grand has a contemporary aesthetic that is slim and compact, something that many musicians will appreciate. It comes as no surprise considering that Roli is known for creating hardware and software products and services that encourages better interactions between people and technology.
Slim Contemporary Keyboards
The Seaboard Grand by Roli Modernizes the Musical Instrument
Trend Themes
1. Soft Surface Musical Instruments - There is an opportunity for musical instrument manufacturers to create new soft surface products that offer more intuitive and versatile playing experience.
2. Intuitive Digital Instrument Interfaces - Companies should consider developing digital instrument interfaces that leverage the benefits of both technology and traditional musical instruments for a modern musical playing experience.
3. Compact Contemporary Keyboard Pianos - There is a growing demand for compact, slim, and modern keyboard pianos that offer a unique playing experience for both professional and amateur musicians.
Industry Implications
1. Musical Instrument Manufacturing - Manufacturers should consider investing in research and development of soft surface musical instruments that are intuitive to play and offer versatility.
2. Music Education - Educators can leverage the benefits of new digital instrument interfaces to enhance the music learning experience for students of all levels.
3. Digital Music Production - Digital music producers can explore the possibilities of integrating soft surface musical instruments and intuitive digital instrument interfaces into their production workflows to create unique and innovative music.