THE PHOTONICS CONCERT: MUSIC AND CREATIVITY TO LEARN DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES AND SCIENCE

We present a project for STEM education for a Musical High School based on a learning-by-doing approach. The involved students were divided in groups and supported by experts, researchers and a FabLab in the co-creation and implementation of "modified" musical instruments based on light and digital technologies (Lasers, LEDs, Arduino, sensors etc.) and acoustic competences. They realized the "Magic Dress", a stage dress that lights up with the singer's voice, "Light Guitar", a bracelet which changes color with the movement of the guitarist's hand, "Light Drum", a drum that lights up when it is played, "Bright Strings", a cello bow that lights up with the musician's movement, and the "Sound Drawer", a laser projector capable to transform the singer's voice in beautiful drawings and shapes. In a second phase the students used these modified instruments to prepare a "Photonics Concert" and organize a series of concerts in different contexts (Researchers' Night, Maker Faires and so on). The experience is discussed presenting results, opportunities, issues and future perspectives.