From cutting-edge 3-D projection to radical social media and barrier-breaking uniforms, the Atlanta Hawks are now bringing innovation of the musical variety to Philips Arena. The 2016 National Association of Music Merchandisers convention saw the unveiling of a custom Hawks branded, 190-degree curved keyboard. The commissioned piece is a collaboration between the team and PianoArc, makers of the Brockettship, the first 360-degree keyboard. The convention, which had more than 100,000 attendees, was introduced to the custom instrument with a joint performance by Hawks in-house organist, Sir Foster, along with PianoArc creator and Lady Gaga touring band member, Brocket Parsons. Click here for video.
The newest version, named DualWing, is comprised of two 90 degree arced boards, each with 72 keys, a far cry from the standard piano that fans are accustomed to seeing Sir Foster play. The new instrument has “…controller keyboards with synth action, a carbon fiber top, integrated (midi-programmable) light show, custom machined aluminum stand and custom mounts for control surface, laptop and additional mic mounts.” This design is fronted with the Hawks “pacman” logo and will allow for full expansion of the DualWing into the full circle Brockettship at a later date.
“That’s one of the great things about working with the Hawks! They’re consistently upping the level of the entertainment experience at the games. It’s amazing that we’ll be the first team to have this incredible instrument. The DualWing will totally be a featured part of my performances,” said Sir Foster, Atlanta Hawks In-House Organist.
In 2015, PianoArc won a Gold Edison Award™ for Entertainment. The designation is given in several categories to innovations in products, services and business leaders worldwide that epitomize “…the persistence and excellence personified by [prolific inventor] Thomas Edison.”
“At PianoArc, we’ve re-thought the relationship between the player and environment, rejecting the notion that there’s only one standard, or one shape, that can be applied to keyboard performance,” said PianoArc CEO Charles Johnson. “The Hawks do same thing for the NBA stadium experience - not taking for granted that there’s one way to approach the experience of an NBA game. The lights, the energy, the video - we couldn’t be more excited to debut our latest innovation with a more innovative sports franchise!"
The in-arena debut of the Hawks’ custom branded DualWing keyboard will be at the Feb. 20 game against the Milwaukee Bucks in a 7:30PM tipoff.
For more information about PianoArc’s product line visit www.pianoarc.com and hear the latest album from Sir Foster at www.sirfostermusic.com.