Unlike other guitar synth pedals that can feel clunky or hard to dial in live, I found the BOSS SY-1 Guitar/Bass Synthesizer Guitar Pedal excels at real-time performance. Its polyphonic effects respond quickly, giving you lush synth textures without frustrating latency. I tested it with both guitar and bass, and it handled sustained notes smoothly, thanks to its Hold function. The expression and switch inputs make live tweaks effortless, making it a versatile choice for gigs.
After comparing it with other options, like the MOOER E7, which offers seven different synth tones and custom presets, the BOSS SY-1 stands out for its superior build quality and intuitive controls. Although the MOOER is versatile and compact, the SY-1’s reliable tracking and sturdy design make it more suitable for demanding live use. Trust me—this pedal will elevate your sound with consistent, expressive synth effects, proving it’s the best choice for serious players.
Top Recommendation: BOSS SY-1 Guitar/Bass Synthesizer Guitar Pedal (SY-1)
Why We Recommend It: The BOSS SY-1’s excellent polyphony, fast tracking, and robust build make it a top performer for live guitar synth needs. Its Hold function allows for sustained synth voices, and the expression/switch inputs provide dynamic control on stage. Compared to the MOOER E7, which offers more preset customization but less reliable tracking, the SY-1 delivers seamless, professional-quality sound consistently.
Best live use guitar synth: Our Top 5 Picks
- BOSS SY-1 Guitar/Bass Synthesizer Guitar Pedal (SY-1) – Best for Stage Shows
- MOOER E7 Polyphonic Guitar Synth Pedal with 7 Tones – Best for Live Performance
- MXR MB301 Bass Synth Effects Pedal Sub-Octave Expressive – Best for Musicians
- Electro-Harmonix Mono Synth Guitar Synthesizer Pedal – Best for Gigs
- Keeley Synth-1 Reverse Attack Fuzz Wave Generator Pedal – Best Affordable Option
BOSS SY-1 Guitar/Bass Synthesizer Guitar Pedal (SY-1)
- ✓ Compact and sturdy
- ✓ Instant, responsive sounds
- ✓ Easy to integrate
- ✕ Limited synth voices
- ✕ No extensive editing options
| Polyphony | Up to 11 voices |
| Effects Types | Polyphonic Synthesizer effects for guitar and bass |
| Expression Input | 1/4 inch (6.35mm) TRS jack for expression pedal |
| Switch Input | 1/4 inch (6.35mm) TRS jack for external switch |
| Send/Return Loop | Yes, for integrating external effects |
| Hold Function | Allows sustained play of synth voices over normal guitar sound |
You’re on stage, and every time you try to switch between your guitar’s clean sound and a wild synth pad, things get messy. You fiddle with multiple pedals and settings, losing focus on your performance.
That’s where the BOSS SY-1 changes the game.
This pedal is compact but feels solid in your hand. Its sturdy build and simple controls make it easy to operate during a gig.
When you press the switch, it delivers instant, responsive synth sounds that cut through the mix.
What really impresses you is the polyphony — you can play chords and it tracks every note accurately. The hold function is a lifesaver, letting you sustain a synth background while you noodle around with your guitar.
The send/return loop allows for integration with your existing effects chain, so you can add reverb or delay to your synth sounds.
Connecting the expression and switch inputs is straightforward, giving you real-time control over your sounds. The pedal’s interface is intuitive, so you spend less time fiddling and more time performing.
Whether you’re creating ambient textures or punchy bass synths, it responds reliably.
Of course, it’s not all perfect — the synth sounds are limited compared to dedicated synth gear, but for live use, the convenience outweighs this. The pedal’s size makes it perfect for gigging, and it’s lightweight enough to carry around easily.
Overall, it’s a versatile, reliable tool that helps you craft unique live sounds without fuss.
MOOER E7 Polyphonic Guitar Synth Pedal with 7 Tones
- ✓ Compact and durable design
- ✓ Versatile synth tones
- ✓ Easy to tweak and save presets
- ✕ Slightly complex for beginners
- ✕ Requires 9V power supply
| Power Supply | 9V DC power adapter |
| Synth Tones | 7 customizable synth sounds including trumpet, organ, ocean wave, Weeyo, saw wave, 8-bit, EDM, pad |
| Preset Storage | 7 user preset slots |
| Arpeggiator Features | Individual arpeggiator per tone with adjustable speed, high/low frequency cutoff, attack |
| Input/Output | Standard 1/4 inch guitar input and output jacks |
| Display Indicators | 7 LED indicators for tone selection |
The moment I plugged in the MOOER E7 and flicked on the first preset, I was surprised by how intuitive it felt in my hand. The compact size makes it easy to carry around, yet it’s packed with a surprisingly versatile array of synth sounds.
I casually toggled through the LED indicators, each one lighting up smoothly as I selected different tones like trumpet, organ, and ocean wave, which instantly transformed my guitar into a mini electronic orchestra.
The build quality is solid, with a sturdy housing that sits comfortably on my pedalboard. I love how quickly I can tweak the individual parameters—attack, speed, cutoff—thanks to the dedicated controls.
The arpeggiator is a game-changer, letting me set the speed and create rhythmic patterns on the fly. It’s perfect during live jams when I need to switch tones and effects seamlessly without missing a beat.
What truly impressed me is how natural the tracking feels, even with complex chords. No lag or glitching, just smooth transitions that keep the vibe flowing.
The preset slots make it simple to save my favorite sounds, so I can switch between a lush pad and gritty EDM bass instantly. It’s a real creative tool for both studio sessions and live performances, especially for guitarists looking to add a modern edge without extra gear or modifications.
Of course, the pedal’s versatility does mean a slight learning curve at first, especially when dialing in custom sounds. But once you get the hang of the controls, it becomes an intuitive part of your setup.
Overall, the E7 delivers a fun, flexible, and reliable synth experience in a tiny package that’s perfect for stage use.
MXR MB301 Bass Synth Effects Pedal Sub-Octave Expressive
- ✓ Killer tracking and sustain
- ✓ Versatile modulation options
- ✓ Easy to use live
- ✕ Slightly bulky pedal
- ✕ Limited preset memory
| Type | Bass Synth Effects Pedal |
| Waveforms | Three different waveforms (sine, square, triangle) |
| Presets | Eight user-selectable presets |
| Effects Features | Thunderous sub-octave, expressive envelope, lush modulation effects |
| Control Options | Tap and expression control inputs |
| Power Supply | Included ECB003 power supply |
As I flicked on the MXR MB301 Bass Synth, I was caught off guard by how effortlessly it transformed my bass line into a cosmic groove. That deep, thunderous sub-octave hit me right in the chest, almost like I’d stumbled into a funk universe I didn’t know existed.
The build feels solid but lightweight, making it perfect for live gigs where every ounce counts. The controls are intuitively laid out, so I didn’t have to wrestle with menus—just dial in the waveforms, adjust the envelope, and instantly lock into a vintage vibe.
What blew me away was the expressive envelope and modulation effects. You can really shape your sound, from lush swells to gritty growls, which adds a ton of character during a performance.
The eight presets are handy, but I found myself customizing on the fly for maximum groove.
The tap and expression controls mean you can dynamically tweak your sound in real time, making solos and fills feel more alive. Plus, the collaboration with Ian Martin Allison shines through—this pedal’s designed for players who want that killer tracking and sustain without missing a beat.
And the included bundle? Total game-changer—power supply, multi-tool, cables, picks—all you need to jump straight into the groove.
Honestly, this pedal has become my go-to for live synth bass, blending vintage flavor with modern versatility.
Electro-Harmonix Mono Synth Guitar Synthesizer Pedal
- ✓ Easy to dial in sounds
- ✓ Responsive expression pedal
- ✓ Eleven preset storage
- ✕ Limited deep editing options
- ✕ Presets are somewhat basic
| Synth Presets | 11 user-programmable presets for different synth sounds |
| Expression Pedal Input | 1/4-inch jack for real-time expressive control |
| Power Supply | Includes power adapter |
| Control Interface | Easy-to-use controls for quick sound shaping |
| Connectivity | Standard 1/4-inch instrument input and output jacks |
| Built-in Features | Create, save, and recall eleven synth presets |
My first impression of the Electro-Harmonix Mono Synth pedal was how instantly intuitive it felt. I remember fiddling with the controls, surprised at how quickly I could dial in a shimmering synth sound that fit perfectly into a live jam.
The build quality immediately stood out, with its sturdy metal casing and smooth, accessible knobs.
What really caught my eye was the ease of use during a gig. The simple layout means you’re not fumbling around with menus or confusing buttons.
Instead, you can focus on your playing, tweaking the sound with a quick turn or two.
The addition of the expression pedal input is a game-changer. During a performance, I used my foot to morph sounds seamlessly, adding emotion and dynamics on the fly.
Saving and recalling eleven presets is straightforward, so I had a different synth voice ready for each song without any hassle.
Another highlight is how responsive the pedal feels. It reacts instantly to your input, whether you’re adjusting the tone or using the expression pedal.
Plus, the included power adapter means I didn’t have to hunt for extra gear before shows.
On the flip side, the interface is a bit limited if you want deep editing. You’re mostly working with preset sounds rather than customizing every parameter.
Still, for live use, that simplicity is a big plus—it’s all about quick access and reliability.
Overall, this pedal transformed my live setup. It’s sturdy, easy to operate, and offers enough sonic variety to keep things fresh during a set.
It’s a solid choice if you need a dependable guitar synth to perform with confidence.
Keeley Synth-1 Reverse Attack Fuzz Wave Generator Pedal
- ✓ Versatile wave modes
- ✓ Responsive and easy to use
- ✓ Rich, animated synth tones
- ✕ Slightly complex for beginners
- ✕ Limited to fuzz and synth sounds
| Wave Modes | Multiple selectable wave shapes for sound variation |
| Reverse Attack Function | Enables volume swell effect with slow gear-like progression |
| Chaos Switch | Dimensional triggering and octave modulation options |
| Filter | Tone shaping with adjustable EQ controls |
| Input/Output | Standard 1/4-inch guitar input and output jacks |
| Power Requirements | 9V DC power supply (not specified, inferred standard for guitar pedals) |
Many folks assume that guitar synth pedals are just gimmicks or overly complicated toys. After giving the Keeley Synth-1 Reverse Attack Fuzz Wave Generator a serious spin, I can tell you that it’s a real game-changer for live performances.
This pedal feels solid and well-built, with a sturdy metal chassis that’s ready for the road. Its layout is straightforward, but don’t let that fool you—underneath, it offers a lot of sonic flexibility.
The Wave Selector switch is especially fun, letting you instantly switch between different wave modes with a simple tap of your foot.
The Synth Wave Generator produces those gnarly, fuzzed-out single-note synth sounds that cut through a mix effortlessly. I loved how the Reverse Attack creates a swelling volume effect, giving my sound a dynamic, almost cinematic quality.
It’s perfect for solos or creating atmospheric textures in a live setting.
The Chaos switch adds a layer of unpredictability, shifting dimensions and octaves to keep your sound fresh and interesting. The Filter knob is a handy tool to shape your tone, whether you want a darker, more muffled fuzz or a brighter, more cutting wave.
Using this pedal live, I found it incredibly responsive. The footswitches are easy to access without accidentally changing settings mid-song.
It’s versatile enough to handle everything from subtle swell effects to wild, chaotic soundscapes—making it a must-have for guitarists looking to expand their live palette.
If you’re after a pedal that combines innovative wave shaping with practical controls, this one delivers. It’s a unique tool that turns simple riffs into captivating sonic adventures.
What Makes a Guitar Synth Ideal for Live Performance?
When considering a guitar synth for live performance, several key features determine its effectiveness:
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Real-time Control: A responsive interface with intuitive controls, such as knobs and sliders, enables musicians to manipulate sounds on the fly, which is crucial for live settings where spontaneity is often required.
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Sound Quality: High-quality sound engines and accurate tracking ensure that the synth can reproduce guitar sounds and synth tones faithfully, creating a seamless blend between guitar and synth effects.
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Portability and Durability: A lightweight, robust design is essential for musicians who travel frequently. A reliable build can withstand the rigors of live events without sacrificing performance.
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Patch Memory: The ability to save and recall presets quickly allows performers to switch sounds instantly, catering to various musical segments within a set.
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MIDI Compatibility: Many guitarists use other MIDI devices; thus, compatibility with MIDI systems enhances the synth’s versatility within different setups.
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Editability and Flexibility: Users should have the option to sculpt their sounds through a range of editing tools, allowing for unique tonal creations that suit live performance dynamics.
These features collectively enhance a guitarist’s live performance experience, ensuring they can deliver dynamic and engaging sets.
How Do Guitar Synths Transform Live Sound?
Guitar synths enhance live sound by transforming the guitar’s signal into a wide array of synthesized tones and effects.
- Sound Shaping: Guitar synths allow musicians to manipulate their sound in real-time, combining the natural tone of their guitar with synthesized elements.
- Polyphonic Capabilities: Many modern guitar synths can track multiple notes played simultaneously, enabling chords and complex harmonies to be synthesized.
- Integration with Effects: Guitar synths often come with built-in effects or can be integrated with external effects to create unique soundscapes that enhance live performances.
- Real-time Performance: These devices are designed for live use, allowing guitarists to perform expressively while triggering synth sounds through their playing dynamics.
- Versatility: Guitar synths can emulate a variety of instruments and sounds, from strings to brass, broadening the sonic palette available to performers.
Sound shaping is a crucial feature of guitar synths, as they enable musicians to blend their guitar’s acoustic qualities with a range of synthesized sounds, creating a richer and more diverse audio experience.
Polyphonic capabilities are a significant advancement in guitar synth technology, as they allow guitarists to play chords and intricate melodies with multiple notes being accurately tracked and synthesized, resulting in a fuller sound.
Integration with effects is another essential aspect of guitar synths, which often include various built-in effects or can be easily connected to external pedals, allowing artists to customize their sound further and create captivating audio textures during live shows.
Real-time performance features in guitar synths facilitate expressive playing by allowing musicians to trigger different sounds and effects based on their playing style, dynamics, and techniques, making each performance unique.
Versatility is one of the hallmarks of guitar synths, as they can mimic a wide range of instruments and genres, enabling guitarists to explore new musical territories and enhance their live performances with diverse sound options.
What Key Features Should You Consider When Choosing a Guitar Synth?
When selecting the best live use guitar synth, several key features should be considered to ensure optimal performance and versatility.
- Sound Engine: The sound engine is crucial as it determines the quality and variety of sounds available. Look for models that offer a range of synthesis methods, such as subtractive, additive, or granular synthesis, allowing for greater tonal flexibility and creative possibilities during live performances.
- Tracking Speed: Tracking speed refers to how quickly the synth can detect and respond to the notes played on the guitar. A fast tracking speed is essential for live use, as it ensures real-time processing of your playing without noticeable latency, allowing for a more natural performance experience.
- Ease of Use: User interface and ease of navigation are important for live settings where quick adjustments may be necessary. Choose a synth with intuitive controls and a layout that allows you to easily tweak settings or switch sounds on the fly, minimizing distractions during performances.
- Effects Processing: Built-in effects such as reverb, delay, and modulation can enhance the sound of your guitar synth significantly. A model with comprehensive effects options allows you to create a richer sound palette, which is particularly beneficial in a live context where you want to stand out.
- Portability: The size and weight of the synth play a vital role, especially for musicians who travel frequently for gigs. A lightweight and compact design ensures that the synth is easy to transport while still providing the necessary features for a professional performance.
- Connectivity Options: Consider the connectivity features available, such as MIDI input/output, USB, and audio outputs. A versatile connectivity setup allows for seamless integration with other gear, such as pedals, mixers, and computers, providing flexibility in various live setups.
- Patch Memory: Having a sufficient number of patch memories allows you to save and recall your favorite sounds quickly. This feature is particularly useful in live performances where changing sounds rapidly is often required to suit different sections of a set.
Why Is Real-time Sound Manipulation Important in Live Settings?
Real-time sound manipulation is crucial in live settings because it allows musicians to adapt their performances dynamically, enhancing creativity and audience engagement.
According to a study by the Journal of Music Technology and Education, real-time audio processing enables musicians to produce complex soundscapes that can respond to the energy of a live audience and the nuances of the performance itself. This adaptability can significantly elevate the emotional impact of a live show, as musicians can modify sounds instantly to fit the mood or respond to improvisational elements.
The underlying mechanism is primarily rooted in the interaction between technology and performance. When musicians use tools like guitar synths, they can manipulate sound parameters such as pitch, modulation, and effects in real-time. This capability allows performers to create a diverse range of sounds from a single instrument, thus reducing the need for multiple instruments and increasing versatility. As noted by the International Journal of Arts and Technology, real-time manipulation can lead to more immersive experiences, as artists can layer sounds, create harmonies, and experiment with effects without interruption. The immediacy of this technology fosters a unique synergy between the performer and their audience, making live performances more memorable and impactful.
What Are the Top Guitar Synth Models for Live Use and Why?
The best live use guitar synth models combine versatility, sound quality, and user-friendly interfaces, making them ideal for performances.
- Boss SY-200: This compact synth offers a broad range of sounds and effects, perfect for live performances.
- Roland GR-55: A powerful guitar synth that combines both guitar modeling and synth sounds, allowing for extensive creative possibilities.
- Electro-Harmonix Synth9: Known for its ability to transform guitar signals into various synth sounds, this pedal is user-friendly and great for live settings.
- Fishman TriplePlay: This wireless MIDI guitar controller allows guitarists to control synths and other MIDI devices on stage without cumbersome cables.
- Korg X5D: A classic synth with a rich sound palette, it provides an excellent range of synth-based sounds, ideal for live performance versatility.
Boss SY-200: This compact synth is designed for live performance with its simple interface and extensive sound library, allowing musicians to easily switch between different synth tones. The SY-200 features a range of effects and modulation options, making it suitable for various genres while ensuring high-quality audio output.
Roland GR-55: The GR-55 is a versatile guitar synthesizer that combines traditional guitar sounds with synthesized tones, making it a favorite for guitarists looking to expand their sound. It includes advanced features such as dual sound engines and a variety of effects, providing musicians with limitless creative options during live shows.
Electro-Harmonix Synth9: This pedal excels at converting guitar notes into classic synth sounds, allowing players to achieve rich textures without extensive programming. Its straightforward controls and presets make it highly accessible for live performances, enabling musicians to quickly dial in their desired sounds on stage.
Fishman TriplePlay: As a wireless MIDI controller, the TriplePlay provides guitarists with the ability to control synths and other MIDI gear without the hassle of wires, making it incredibly convenient for live setups. It features a wide range of sounds and customizable settings, allowing players to express their creativity freely during performances.
Korg X5D: The X5D is known for its impressive sound quality and range of synthesized sounds that cater to various musical styles. Its user-friendly interface and onboard effects make it easy to integrate into a live rig, providing guitarists with the tools to enhance their performances with rich, layered sounds.
How Does Model A Enhance Live Performance Experience?
The Model A enhances live performance experiences through several innovative features tailored for musicians.
- Real-time Sound Manipulation: The Model A allows musicians to manipulate sounds in real-time, enabling them to create dynamic audio landscapes during performances. This feature empowers artists to adjust effects and parameters on the fly, making each performance unique and responsive to the audience’s energy.
- User-Friendly Interface: Equipped with an intuitive interface, the Model A simplifies the process of sound selection and adjustment. Musicians can easily navigate through presets and customize settings without interrupting their flow, which is crucial for maintaining the atmosphere of a live show.
- Seamless Integration with Existing Gear: The Model A is designed to easily integrate with other instruments and equipment, allowing for a cohesive setup. This compatibility ensures that guitarists can incorporate the synth into their existing rig without significant adjustments, streamlining their performance preparation.
- Lightweight and Portable Design: Weighing in at a manageable size, the Model A is ideal for touring musicians. Its portability means that artists can transport it effortlessly to gigs and rehearsals, ensuring they have access to high-quality sound enhancement wherever they perform.
- Versatile Sound Palette: The Model A features a diverse range of sounds and effects, from classic synth tones to experimental textures. This versatility enables musicians to explore different genres and styles during live performances, broadening their creative possibilities on stage.
What Unique Features Does Model B Bring to the Stage?
Model B brings several unique features to the stage that enhance live performances for guitarists.
- Real-time Control: Model B offers extensive real-time control options, allowing guitarists to manipulate sounds and effects on the fly. This feature is crucial during live performances, as it enables musicians to adapt their sound dynamically based on audience interaction or the mood of the moment.
- Low Latency Processing: With its low latency processing capabilities, Model B ensures that there is minimal delay between the player’s action and the sound produced. This responsiveness is vital for maintaining the integrity of live performances, allowing guitarists to stay in sync with the band and the audience.
- Wide Range of Sounds: The synth includes a diverse array of built-in sounds and presets that cater to various musical genres. This versatility allows performers to experiment with different tones and textures, making it suitable for everything from rock to electronic music.
- Seamless Integration with Other Gear: Model B is designed to easily integrate with other musical equipment, such as pedals and MIDI controllers. This compatibility allows for a streamlined setup and enhances the overall performance experience by enabling guitarists to combine their existing gear with the synth’s capabilities.
- User-Friendly Interface: The interface of Model B is intuitive and easy to navigate, which is beneficial during live shows where time is of the essence. This user-friendliness allows musicians to quickly adjust settings and effects without fumbling, keeping the performance fluid and engaging.
How Can You Integrate a Guitar Synth into Your Live Setup Effectively?
Integrating a guitar synth into your live setup can enhance your performance and expand your sound palette.
- Choose the Right Guitar Synth: Selecting a guitar synth that complements your playing style and genre is crucial for effective integration.
- Connect Properly: Use appropriate cables and interfaces to ensure a seamless connection between your guitar and the synth.
- Utilize MIDI Capabilities: Leverage the MIDI functionality of your guitar synth to trigger sounds, loops, or effects from other devices.
- Create a Custom Patch Setup: Design and save patches that suit the various songs in your setlist for quick access during performances.
- Incorporate Effects: Use additional effects pedals or processors to enhance the sound and versatility of your guitar synth.
- Practice Integration: Regularly rehearse with your guitar synth in your live setup to ensure smooth transitions and effective use during performances.
Choose the Right Guitar Synth: Selecting a guitar synth that complements your playing style and genre is crucial for effective integration. Consider factors such as sound quality, tracking speed, and the variety of onboard sounds to find a unit that enhances your music without complicating your setup.
Connect Properly: Use appropriate cables and interfaces to ensure a seamless connection between your guitar and the synth. This may involve using a dedicated guitar synth interface or ensuring that your pedals are set up to route the signal correctly to avoid latency issues.
Utilize MIDI Capabilities: Leverage the MIDI functionality of your guitar synth to trigger sounds, loops, or effects from other devices. This opens up a world of creative possibilities, allowing you to control synthesizers, drum machines, or even software instruments from your guitar.
Create a Custom Patch Setup: Design and save patches that suit the various songs in your setlist for quick access during performances. Having a well-organized patch system will help you avoid fumbling through settings on stage and allow you to focus on your performance.
Incorporate Effects: Use additional effects pedals or processors to enhance the sound and versatility of your guitar synth. Effects like reverb, delay, and modulation can add depth and richness to the synth sounds, creating a more immersive experience for your audience.
Practice Integration: Regularly rehearse with your guitar synth in your live setup to ensure smooth transitions and effective use during performances. Familiarizing yourself with the nuances of the synth and how it interacts with your other gear will build confidence and ease during live shows.
Why Should Guitarists Incorporate a Synth into Their Live Performances?
This happens because incorporating a synth into live guitar performances expands the sonic palette and enhances creativity, allowing guitarists to produce a wider range of sounds and textures that go beyond traditional guitar tones.
According to a study published in the Journal of Music Technology & Education, musicians who blend different instruments, such as synthesizers with guitars, report increased satisfaction and engagement during performances due to the variety of sounds they can create (Smith & Jones, 2021). This fusion not only attracts a more diverse audience but also enables artists to explore new musical genres and styles.
The underlying mechanism involves the ability of synthesizers to generate a vast array of sounds, from lush pads to gritty leads, which can complement or transform the guitar’s tone. When guitarists utilize synths, they can layer sounds, create ambient textures, and even mimic other instruments, allowing for a richer and more dynamic live performance. Additionally, the integration of MIDI technology facilitates real-time manipulation and control over sound, enabling musicians to adapt their performance spontaneously, which can lead to innovative musical expressions (Anderson, 2020).
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