Most recent demos of Cellographic

Look here to find the most recent video samples of Cellographic.

The Cellographic Cello

Originally a standard wood cello, now deconstructed and rebuilt in components fabricated in clear acrylic resin.

A Word from Cellographic Creator: Scott Allen

Hi. I'm Scott Allen. I am a lifelong cellist and creator of custom instruments. This video here tells a little about that journey.

One key moment in my life that I did not mention was back in the late 90's while at Massachusetts College of Art, when I made my first musical instrument of a high art concept. It was a matte black burlap clad playable cello sculpture/synthesizer in the form of a woman. I had the privilege to perform the instrument at a few gallery openings and it was the first time that I became truly inspired by the synergy between art, music, and design.

Now nearly 30 years later I am picking up where I left off by building Cellographic.

A Truly Unique Electric Cello

I set out to create a new musical instrument that bridges art, music, and design like never before. To create the means to present live improvisation of multi-layered video imagery, cello, and midi synthesis, so that I can tell audio visual stories in a totally new way.

Live Performance Control Interface

We are designing a custom interface for live manipulation of modular synthesis, audio effects, and multilayer video projection during live performance.

Innovative Audio Visual Experience

Cellographic will engage the audience with a mesmerizing audio visual storytelling experience enhanced by live improvisational musical scores.

Cutting-Edge Technology Integration

By fabricating clear cello body components and hardware, we are able to mount an ultra short throw projector (UST) to the back of the instrument. This allows us to shoot the projected image through the body and into light catching films built into the cello's face panel.

Onboard Controls and Peripherals

Cellographic is being designed with a custom user interface to facilitate control of video imagery, a modular synthesis rig, and a collection of effect pedals.

The Companion Synth: Fidel

One of the primary intentions for the Bela interface is to facilitate on stage control of the modular synthesis rig known as Fidel.

Fidel is a collection of eurorack synth modules specifically chosen to enable me to quickly establish improvised backing tracks in live performance.

Custom User Interface Design via Bela Mini

Interfacing video playback controls, modular synthesis, and effect pedals will be possible directly from the cello thanks to a powerful micro computer known as the Bela Mini and it's Trill and Craft touch sensors.

This interface is to be programmed in Pure Data and it's installation complete sometime in late 2024

Effect Pedals

Looping and effect pedals have been a mainstay of my performance methods for over a decade.

Now with the Bela interface I will be able to control those pedals, not just with my feet but also to modify their parameters onboard Cellographic.