Controllerism: History and Key Facts

Controllerism is the art and practice of using musical software controllers, e.g. MIDI, OSC, DJ controller, joystick, etc., to build upon, mix, scratch, remix, effect, modify, or otherwise create music, usually by a digital DJ or Live PA performer, often called a controllerist. Controllerism is also a nod to traditional musicianship and instrumentalism paired with modern computer sequencing software such as Ableton Live and Traktor. However, a working knowledge of scales and chords is not necessarily required as the performers typically focus their efforts more on sequencing events, software effects and instrument manipulations using buttons, knobs, faders, keys, foot switches, and pedals than on instrumental notes played in real time.

With recent developments in music technology, particularly in software instruments, a USB MIDI controller enables musicians almost unlimited possibilities to control a wide variety of sound types.

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