Zephyr Mekhane is an interactive installation consisting of sets of Tremolo-Chimes: tubular metallic wind chimes that have been modified by removing the striker and wind catcher. MIDI-controlled vibration motors suspended in each chime produce continuous, tremolo-like sounds where the dynamic shape can be controlled over time. Each set of Tremolo-Chimes is activated either through synthesized “wind” or through sensors that detect the proximity of participants to the chimes. Both synthesized wind and sensor input are fed through a mass-link physical model, evoking the movements of a wind-driven clapper bouncing off traditional wind chimes. Synthesized wind represents the default control mode of the installation when participants are not interacting with the sensors. When a participant enters the sensing field, their body will actuate the system in a variety of different ways.
