Introduction: MaKey MaKey Piano
Play simple piano chords with the touch of a button using MaKey MaKey.
Step 1: What Is a MaKey MaKey?
A MaKey MaKey is a board that turns any conductive object into a key on your keyboard! In this case, we'll be using it to play four piano chords using four different Play-Doh buttons.
Step 2: Materials Needed
What you will need:
- MaKey MaKey Board
- Alligator Clips
- Connecting Wires
- Play-Doh
- Computer
Step 3: Virtual Piano
Find any virtual piano online that works to your satisfaction.
In this case we will be using the one pictured above which can be found using the URL given below:
Step 4: Mapping the MaKey MaKey Keys
Looking at the virtual piano that you have chosen, figure out which letters on the keyboard correspond to the note(s) that you want to be played.
Piano chords used in this project are E, B, C#m, and A.
To play each chord, these letters/symbols on the keyboard are needed:
E chord: S - T - H
B chord: H - O - ;
C#m chord: J - L
A chord: G - J - L
Use MaKey MaKey's remapping system, available here: http://www.makeymakey.com/remap/ , to reprogram the preset letters on the MaKey MaKey board to the one's you need.
Step 5: Pulling It All Together
Assemble the MaKey MaKey as shown. Use connecting wires to attach to the alligator clips, which are then inserted into the appropriate Play-Doh button. As each button is pushed, make sure to be in contact with a separate grounded wire which is indicated on the board as "EARTH."
