I have been evaluating the concept of integrating vocal synthesis within the framework of a conventional piano, effectively creating what some have termed a “talking piano.” The key inquiry involves determining both the historical precedents and the contemporary technological innovations that facilitate the blending of vocal outputs with traditional piano sounds.
Specifically, I am interested in exploring the following topics:
Historical Implementations: Are there documented instances from the early 20th century or earlier where mechanical or electromechanical systems were used to imbue pianos with the ability to produce speech-like articulation or commentary? What engineering approaches were employed, and how do they compare to modern techniques?
Digital Integration: With current advancements in digital signal processing and artificial intelligence, what are the best practices for synchronizing vocal synthesis with the acoustic or sampled timbres of a piano? How can modern MIDI controllers or sensor inputs be integrated to adapt vocal outputs dynamically in performance settings?
Acoustic Considerations: From an acoustical engineering standpoint, what are the critical factors in ensuring that the vocal components are properly balanced and spatially coherent with the piano's inherent sound? Are there innovative solutions in terms of resonance management or output amplification that have proven effective?
Control Architecture: What kind of control systems (both hardware and software) are necessary to manage the real-time translation of note articulation into corresponding vocal cues? How can latency and timing issues be minimized to ensure a seamless performance?
I welcome detailed technical insights, references to relevant literature, and case studies or personal experiences regarding the development and implementation of such hybrid instruments.