Musical sequencer with manipulable markers

The musical sequencer addresses the lack of tactile interaction in existing sequencers by using a control panel with physical markers and sensors to create a multi-sensory experience, enhancing the learning and enjoyment of musical composition.

WO2025224724A1PCT designated stage Publication Date: 2025-10-30MUSICAL BEINGS LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
PCT/IL2025/050355
Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2024-04-26
Filing Date
2025-04-23
Publication Date
2025-10-30

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Current hardware and software step sequencers lack ease-of-use features for an enjoyable learning experience and tactile interaction, while software solutions fail to provide a satisfying tactile experience.

Method used

A musical sequencer with a control panel divided into sub-regions and physical markers that allow manual placement, combining tactile manipulation with auditory and visual feedback, and incorporating sensors to generate musical sequences based on marker placement.

Benefits of technology

Enhances the learning experience through a multi-sensory approach, providing an intuitive and educational interface that integrates tactile stimulation with auditory and visual feedback.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

A musical sequencer having a surface divided into a sequence of regions, where each region is divided into one or more sub-regions. Physical markers are adapted to be hand-held and hand manipulated, and dimensioned to be placed by a user in any of the sub-regions. A processor detects sub-regions upon which the user has placed, one or more of the markers and generates a sequence of musical sound, signals according to the sub-regions in which the user has placed one or more of the markers.
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Description

[0001] MUSICAL SEQUENCER WITH MANIPULABLE MARKERS

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] This invention relates to electronic musical devices such as step sequencers.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] Electronic music instruments have evolved significantly over the years, transitioning from traditional analog synthesizers to a wide array of products and instruments, such as synthesizers, drum machines and samplers. These instruments offer musicians and enthusiasts a vast array of creative possibilities, both software- based and hardware -based.

[0006] Among the various tools employed in electronic music composition, step sequencers, both in software and hardware formats, are widely used to program and arrange musical patterns in a systematic, grid-based manner, providing musicians with intuitive interfaces to design intricate musical sequences. Generally speaking they utilize a grid-like interface representing a recurring musical pattern, where different rows represent different sounds and different columns represent the timing in the sequence. Many virtual instruments and DAWs (digital audio workstation) offer a step sequencer as part of their feature sets.

[0007] Hardware step sequencers typically consist of an array of buttons or pads that allow users to generate sequences in a hands-on manner. Software-based sequencers utilize a graphic user interface (UI), both in touch screen and desktop programs.

[0008] Despite the wide range of available sequencers, they tend to remain inaccessible to many people. Current hardware step sequencers often lack features that facilitate ease-of-use that would provide an enjoyable learning experience, while software solutions lack the tactile experience and flow of playing.

[0009] US Patent Publication No. 20200126525, assigned to InMusic Brands Inc., describes a step sequencer that is used to generate patterns of sounds on different channels. The sequencer has a four by sixteen grid of buttons that emulates a virtual grid on a graphical user interface by music production software. The sequencer is used to control the corresponding grid on the graphical user interface.

[0010] US Patent No. 8,822,803, assigned to Ableton AG, describes a musical instrument comprising a rectangular array of buttons that can be arranged in a diatonic or chromatic layout. When the layout is diatonic, scales are arranged horizontally in rows, the rows being vertically spaced in relative fourths: In the chromatic layout, the buttons corresponding to scale notes of a selected key are different from the other keys.

[0011] US Patent No. 10,955,984, assigned to .Apple Inc., describes a user interface for controlling a virtual musical instrument. The interface is used to select a cell in one of a plurality of cell arrays arranged sequentially within a cell matrix. Each array of the cell matrix is assigned MIDI (musical instrument digital interface) notes associated with audio sample data which, when triggered, causes the audio sample data to output corresponding audio. Each cell within its particular array of the cell matrix, in response to being selected for playback and upon being triggered to begin playback, causes the audio sample data corresponding to the cell's particular array to be played.

[0012] US Patent Publication 20190103085, assigned to Apple Inc., describes a user interface for controlling a virtual musical instrument including inputting a selection of one of a plurality of dynamic navigation objects configured on a display including a cell matrix with one or more arrays of cells configured as a step-sequencer.

[0013] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0014] The present invention provides a musical sequencer. The sequencer of the invention has a control panel divided into a number of sub-regions that are clustered into a sequence of regions. Each sub-region in a region has one or more associated musical data sets, where each data set includes data indicative of a sequence of one or more specific spectra of sound frequencies. For example, a spectrum of sound frequencies corresponding to a particular sub-region maybe the frequency spectrum of a particular musical instrument.

[0015] The sequencer is provided with a plurality of physical markers configured for manual placement by a user in one or more selectable sub-regions. Sensors detect the presence of markers in the various sub- regions and generate one or more signals that are input to a processor indicative of the array of marker placement in the sub-regions. The processor in turn generates a sequence of musical sounds determined by the array of marker placement in the control zone.

[0016] Use of the invention provides a multi-sensory experience by combining manual manipulation of the markers with auditory feedback (hearing the generated sounds), and visual feedback (observing the arrangement of markers). The inventors have found that integrating a manual manipulation involving tactile stimulation with auditory and visual feedback provides an enhanced intuitive and educational experience. Thus, in one of its aspects, the invention provides a musical sequencer system comprising:

[0017] (a) a sequencer unit comprising:

[0018] ● a surface divided into a sequence of regions, each region being divided into one or more sub-regions;

[0019] ● a processor; and

[0020] (b) one or more physical markers, each marker being dimensioned to be placed in one or more of the sub-regions and adapted to be hand-held and hand manipulated: wherein die processor is configured to:

[0021] ● detect sub -regions upon which one or more of the markers have been placed;

[0022] ● generate a sequence of musical sound signals according to the detected sub-regions ,

[0023] ’The musical sequencer of the invention may further comprise one or more sensors associated with each of one or more of the sub-regions, each sensor generating a signal indicative of one or more markers placed on the associated sub-region. One or more of the sensors may be pressure sensors detecting one or more markers placed on a sub-region by a pressure exerted on the associated sub-region by the one or more markers.

[0024] One or more of the markers may comprise one or more magnets, and one or more of the sensors may detect one or more markers placed on a sub -region by a magnetic field produced by one or more of the markers placed on the associated sub- region.

[0025] The musical sequencer may further comprise one or more speakers, and the processor may be further configured to input one or more of the musical sound signals generated by the processor to the one or more of the speakers to generate sounds indicated by the musical sound signals.

[0026] The processor may be further configured to produce a continuously repeated musical sequence .

[0027] More than one marker may be placed on one or more sub-regions, and the sensors may detect the number of markers on a given sub-region, and the music data set executed by the processor depending on the number of markers placed on the given sub -region. The sensors may be adapted to detect a rotational movement of a marker on a given sub-region, and the music data sei that is executed by the processor may depend on a detected rotational movement of a marker.

[0028] The sensors may be adapted to detect a flipping over movement of a marker on a sub-region, and the music data set that is executed by the processor may depend on a detected flipping of a marker.

[0029] The musical sequencer may be further provided with one or more sites for connection of the musical sequencer to one or more external devices.

[0030] The musical sequencer may further comprise a metronome.

[0031] The musical sequencer may further comprising an Internet of ’Things (loT) module configured to exchange data with one or more apps.

[0032] The processor may be further configured to perform digital signal processing in the generation of the sound signals.

[0033] ’The processor may be further configured with artificial intelligence (Al) functionalities.

[0034] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0035] In order to understand the invention and to see how it may be carried out in practice, embodiments will now be described, by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0036] Fig. 1 shows a sequencer in which physical markers are manually placed on a control surface, in a first perspective view showing the control surface, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention;

[0037] Fig. 2 shows the sequencer of Fig. 1 in plan view;

[0038] Fig. 3 shows the sequencer of Fig. 1 in a second perspective view showing the connectivity panel;

[0039] Fig. 4 shows the sequencer of Fig. 1 in the first perspective view showing stacking of markers on the control surface;

[0040] Fig. 5a shows the sequencer of Fig. 1 in the first perspective view showing rotation of markers on the control surface;

[0041] Fig. 5b shows the sequencer of Fig. 1 in the first perspective view showing flipping of markers on the control surface;

[0042] Fig. 6 shows an exploded view of the interior of the sequencer of Fig. 1;

[0043] Fig. 7 shows a close-up of the exploded view of Fig. 6; and Fig. 8 shows connection of the sequencer of Fig. 1 to external apps.

[0044] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0045] Figs. 1 to 8 show a musical sequencer 2 in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. The sequencer 2 has a housing 3 containing a processor having a memory, several sensors and other electronic components, as described in detail below. The sequencer may have foldable legs 5 to provide a convenient viewing angle when in use, that can be folded back for compact storage. A carrying case may also be provided to contain the sequencer and related equipment.

[0046] On an upper surface of the sequencer 2 is a control panel 4. Around the periphery' of the control panel are several control knobs that allow a user to select the values of such parameters as the volume , tempo, and time signature of the generated music. One or more LED indicators 9 may be present to provide visual feedback and to indicate the status of the sequencer and the currently selected parameter values. The LED indicators 9 can also be used to enhance user interaction, for example, by pulsating to the beat or providing visual feedback. Intuitive icons and graphical elements may be displayed on a screen 11 together with other relevant information. The sequencer 2 has an on / off switch 25 (Fig. 3), and may be provided with a built-in microphone 105 and a built-in speaker 19 (Figs. 1 and 2).

[0047] In the center of die control panel 4 is a control zone 6 that is divided into a number of sub-regions 20, such as sub-regions 2(la. 20b, 20c and 20d. In the embodiment of Figs. 1 to 5. each sub-region 20 is a square. This is by way of example only, and the sub-regions can have any desired shape. The sub-regions 20 are clustered into a sequence of regions 10. In the embodiment of Figs. 1 to 8, the regions are columns of sub-regions. There are eight regions (columns), regions 10a to lOh, and each region contains 5 sub-regions (squares). The regions 10 are arranged in a sequence, from region 10a to region to region 10b. This yields a grid arrangement 13 of the sub-regions. This is by way of example only, and the sequencer of the invention can contain a sequence of any number of regions, each region being divided into any number of sub- regions. ’The sub-regions in a region may be arranged in a linear array, as shown in Figs. 1 to 8, but can also be arranged in any desired array shape.

[0048] The boundaries of the regions and sub-regions may be printed or embossed on the control zone. Alternatively, the control zone may indude a display screen that displays the boundaries of the regions and sub-regions. Each sub-region in a region has one or more associated musical data sets, where each data set includes data indicative of a sequence of one or more specific spectra of sound frequencies. For example, a spectrum of sound frequencies corresponding to a particular sub-region maybe the frequency spectrum of a particular musical instrument. Corresponding sub-regions in different regions may or may not have the same associated musical data sets.

[0049] Figs. 1 to 5 also show a plurality of physical markers 8 after manual placement by a user in some of the sub-regions of the control zone. The pattern of marker placement in the control zone is selectable by a user.

[0050] Shown to advantage in Figs. 6 and 7, inside the control unit and under the control zone 6 is an array of one or more sensors 16 that detect the presence of markers 8 in the sub- regions. Each sensor 16 generates one or more signals that are input to a processor 17 located inside the control unit. As an example, and considering again Figs. 1 to 5, markers 8 have been placed on several sub-regions in the array of regions. 'Phus, in this example, the sensors will detect that a marker 8a has been placed in the sub- region 20a of the region 19a, a marker 8b has been placed only in the sub-region 20b of the region 10b, a marker 8c has been placed in the sub- region 20c and another marker 8d has beets placed in the sub-region 20d of the region 10c, and so on for the regions lOd to lOh. ’The locations of markers in the sub-regions are detected by the sensors 16 and stored in the memory of the processor 17. The sensors 16 may also detect various other characteristics of markers placed in the sub-regions, as explained below.

[0051] Other electronic components of the sequencer 2 can include an audio module 91, one or more potentiometers 93, a LED sequence indication 95, a rotary encoder 97, a NFC / RFID reader 99, a 3 -axis magnetometer 101, a Hall effect sensor 103, and a LED beat indicator 107.

[0052] The processor 17 (Fig. 6) is configured to generate a sequence of musical sounds determined by the selected array of marker placement in the control zone. The tempo of the music sound sequence can be selected by a user turning a "beats per minute" (BPM) button 22 to a desired tempo. The selected BPM determines a beat duration during which the processor visits each region in the grid as the processor 17 progresses sequentially from region 10a to region lOh. Thus, for example, if a BPM of 60 is selected by the user, at. each region, the beat duration would be 1 sec (the processor will visit each region 10 in the sequence for a time period of 1 second). If a BPM of 90 were to be selected, the beat duration would be 2 / 3 sec (the processor will visit each region in the sequence for a time period of 2 / 3 sec).

[0053] The sequencer 2 may optionally include any one or more of the following capabilities:

[0054] A Live / Playback Mode button 68 that allows toggling between a live mode in which the grid acts as the default sequencer mode, and a playback mode in which the markers 8 determine a pattern saved from the live mode to create a musical sequence.

[0055] A Channel Sample Assigning button 70 that allows assigning a previously recorded sample to a grid channel.

[0056] A Swing / Scatter button 72 that allows adding a shuffle feel to the beat.

[0057] A Shift Button 74 which when pressed, adds a secondary operation for any one or more knobs or buttons.

[0058] A Sample Record button 76 for recording a sample.

[0059] Loop Machine button 77 that allows the addition of quantized loops that can play simultaneously with the grid, as explained below.

[0060] A Record button 79 and a stop record button 81, for recording a session.

[0061] Record Mode switch 83 for toggling between the recording mode, looper mode and resampler mode.

[0062] Record Mode indicator lights 85 for indicating the current mode.

[0063] An Effects Send / Manipulation button 87 for sending selected channel effects to a corresponded channel.

[0064] An Effects Selection button 89 for selecting one or more effects to be added to a channel.

[0065] A Channel Volume knob 91 for controlling the volume of one or more channels and for muting one or more channels.

[0066] A Master Volume button 88 for controlling the volume of the device.

[0067] ’The sequence length of beats can also be selected by a user by turning a sequence length selector button 23 to the desired number of steps in the sequence. For example when a sequence length of 8 is selected, the processor 17 will go through 8 columns and then return the first column and repeat the process. When the sequence lengt h is set to 7, the processor 17 will go through 7 columns and then return to the first column and repeat the process. Other selectable options include drum kit selection by rotation of a drum kit selection knob 30 for recording a session in the processor memory.

[0068] Before or after placement of the markers by a user, and selection of a tempo and sequence length, and possibly other optional selections, a play button 21 is pressed to acti vate the scanning function of the processor 17.

[0069] The processor 17 now generates a sequence of sound signals determined by the array of marker placement, the selected tempo and time signature, and possibly other optional selections. Referring again to the example of Figs. 1 to 5, the processor generates a first analog or digital sound signal corresponding to one or more of die musical data sets associated with the sub-region 20a of the first region Wa. The first sound signal is input to the one or more speakers 19 to generate the audible sound indicative of the first sound signal. The processor visits the first region for an amount of time equal to the beat duration. However, the duration of a sound signal generated from a musical data set may be specified in the musical data set. Thus, the duration of a sound signal, as specified in a musical data set, may be less than the duration of a single beat, equal to the duration of a single beat, or greater than a single beat. At the conclusion of the determined beat duration, the processor 17 moves on to the second region 10b, and generates a second analog or digital sound signal corresponding to one or the musical data sets associated with the sub-region 20b of the second region 10b. The second sound signal is input to the one or more speakers 19 to generate the audible sound indicative of the second sound signal which persists for the time period specified by the musical data set.

[0070] After the conclusion of the second time period, the processor 17 mo ves onto the third region 10c and generates an analog or digital sound signal corresponding to the superimposition of one of the musical data sets associated with the sub-region 20c with that of sub-region 20d. The sound signal is input to one or more of the speakers 19 to generate the audible sound indicative of the third sound signal which, again, persists for the time period determined by the musical data set.

[0071] The process continues with the sequential analysis and sound generation of regions lOd to 10h, according to the array of marker placement in each region. At this point, the process can return to region 10a, and the process repeated.

[0072] Atty one or more of the user inputs can be changed on the fly as the sound generation proceeds. In particular, the array of marker placement on the control zone can be changed any time as the process of sound generation proceeds. As used herein, a “loop” refers to a musical sequence of a predetermined duration that is continuously repeated. The musical sequencer 2 may be provided with a “looper”, which allows a user to add a loop that may be recorded in real-time or pre- recorded by the user, or provided in the processor 17 software. The duration of a loop may be, for example, shorter than one bar, or one or more bars. In loop mode, a loop can be sounded, for example, on top of a drum sequence. Two or more loops can be overlaid on top of one another. To maintain musical coherence, loops can be quantified to a specific beat grid, ensuring the loops start and stop in sync with the beat. Looping patterns can be altered on the fly as the music progresses.

[0073] In one embodiment, as shown in Fig. 4, more than one markers may be placed on a single sub-region. In this case, the markers by be adapted to be stacked one upon the other. As an example, shown in Fig. 4, two markers have been stacked in sub- regions 20d and 20b, and three markers have been stacked in sub-regions 20a and 20e. In this embodiment, die sensors will detect the number of markers on a given sub-region and the music data set that is executed by the processor from among a plurality of music data sets associated with the sub-region may depend on the number of markers placed on the sub-region. Addition and removal of markers on a sub-region may be performed on the fly as the process proceeds.

[0074] Alternatively or additionally, as indicated in Fig. 5a, the sensors 16 may be adapted to detect a rotational movement of a marker on a given sub-region. As an example show in Fig. 5a, a marker 8g in sub-region 20e is being rotated in a clockwise direction, as indicated by the curved arrow 53, and a marker 8h in sub-region 20h is being rotated in a counter clockwise direction, as indicated by the curved arrow 55. The music data set that is executed by the processor from among a plurality of music data sets associated with the sub-region may depend on a detected rotational movement of the marker. Rotation of markers in a sub-region may be performed on the fly as the process proceeds.

[0075] Alternatively or additionally, as indicated in Fig. 5b, the sensors may be adapted to detect a flipping over movement of a marker on a sub-region. As an example shown in Fig. 5b, a marker placed on the sub-region 20e is being flipped over, as indicated by the curved arrow 61. The music data set that is executed by the processor from among a plurality of music data sets associated with the sub-region may depend on a detected flipping of a marker. Flipping of markers in a sub-region can also be performed on the fly as the process proceeds. In one embodiment, one or more of the sensors may be pressure sensors that detect the presence of one or more markers 8 on a sub-region by the pressure applied by the weight of the marker or markers on the sub-region. One or more of the sensors may include a micro-switch that is closed when a marker is placed on a sub-region.

[0076] In one embodiment, the markers 8 contain one or more magnets. In this embodiment, the sensors may detect the presence of a marker on a sub-region by sensing any one or more of the magnetic field intensity (determined by the number of magnets stacked in a sub -region), magnetic field direction, changes in the magnetic field direction (resulting from rotation of a magnet within a sub-region), and changes in field polarity (resulting from flipping a magnet over within a sub-region).

[0077] In an embodiment utilizing magnetic markers, the sensors may include, for example, any one or more of Hall-sensors (on / off magnetic sensors), magnetometers, and 3-dimensional magnetic-field sensors.

[0078] Other forms of detection by the sensors that may be used can rely, for example, on near-field communication (NFC) or radio frequency identification (RFID).

[0079] Referring to Fig. 3, a side of the sequencer 2 may be provided with a connectivity panel 24 comprising one or more sockets for connection of the sequencer 2 with external devices. Such external devices may include, for example:

[0080] A USB socket 51 for connection of an external power source or battery charger.

[0081] A Spirit knob 66 for adjusting a “creative freedom” feature of an Al generative agent.

[0082] A Microphone Input Gain knob 52 for adjustment of the amplitude of an output signal.

[0083] An Audio Out socket 54 for attachment of an external speaker or headphone.

[0084] A Combo Jack Mic input plug 56 for connection to an external instrument.

[0085] A USB socket 57 for connection to another musical sequencer for simultaneous production of music by the sequencer 2 and an external sequencer.

[0086] Continuous / S tacked & Master / Slave button 65 for selection a mode of interaction between the sequencer 2 and an external sequencer.

[0087] A MIDI in / out knob 62 for connection to a MIDI controller.

[0088] A Metronome knob 64 for activating and adjusting a built-in metronome.

[0089] As shown in Figs. 1 and 8, an Internet of Things (loT) module can be incorporated into the processor 17 to exchange data with one or more connected apps 50 in real time. This allows, for example, recording and saving of both the audio output and the state of the system including marker position and parameter values on external devices. This also allows downloading content from an app to the processor memory. Such apps allow users to record generated sequences, upload instructions and guidelines, as well as various sounds, and share their creations with others, thus enhancing the overall learning, creative, and collaborative experience.

[0090] The processor may be further configured to perform digital signal processing in the generation of the sound signals. Such digital signal processing may include superimposing on the sound signals, drum sounds or other sound effects to provide realistic and dynamic sound textures. The digital signal processing can also apply effects such as reverb, delay, and modulation to enhance the sound quality and create immersive sonic environments. The processor may also be provided with digital filters and equalizers that allow a user to shape the timbre and tone of the sounds, enabling customization and creative expression. The DSP is preferably optimized for low latency and high performance to ensure responsive playback and minimal delay between user input and audio output.

[0091] The musical sequencer 2 may be provided with artificial intelligence (Al) functionalities that act as ‘‘co-producers ”, providing Intelligent assistance based on user inputs. Al agents may operate within predefined creative boundaries that can be adjusted by the user. Such Al functionalities maybe, for example:

[0092] 1- Adaptive Musical Suggestions:

[0093] Al agents may be used to analyze user input patterns and suggest complementary sounds, rhythms, or harmonies. The system can generate melody variations, chord progressions, or percussive elements that match the user's current composition.

[0094] 2. Dynamic Loop Manipulation:

[0095] Al agents can modify or enhance loops by introducing subtle variations to prevent repetition fatigue. They can apply intelligent effects, such as dynamic filtering, pitch adjustments, or rhythmic transformations.

[0096] 3. User- .Creative

[0097] A user-adjustable parameter allows control over Al influence, ranging from minimal suggestions to full generative co-creation.

[0098] 4. Context-, A ware Interaction: Al agents can adapt their behavior based on the user's skill level, musical style, and past interactions. They can learn user preferences over time to tailor suggestions and co-creative behaviors.

[0099] 5- Jam along interaction:

[0100] When a musical instrument, such as a guitar or piano, is being played simultaneously with the musical sequencer of the invention, Al can be used to generate various backing tracks ( i.e. beat, bass, chords..) and respond to the user’s playing and to inputs from the synthesizer of the invention.

[0101] The musical synthesizer of the invention may be provided with an Al -driven training and guidance system lor personalized instructional support. The training and guidance functionalities may include, for example:

[0102] 1- Interactive Lessons: o Guiding users through structured lessons that teach rhythm, melody, harmony, and looping techniques, The lessons may be adapted based on the user's skill level and progress over time.

[0103] 2. RcakT1me.Feedback: o Analysis of user input to provide feedback on timing, accuracy, and technique and suggest corrective actions to improve musical execution.

[0104] 3. Skill Progression Tracking: o Tracking of user progress and recommendations for exercises tailored to the user’s needs. Performance analytics can make the user aware of areas in need of improvement and set personal goals.

[0105] 4 • A d ap live . Coaching ..Mode : o Virtual coaching, providing tips, challenges, and encouragement based on tlte user's engagement and performance. The coaching can be in die form of structured guidance or exploratory learning.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A musical sequencer system comprising:(a) a sequencer unit comprising:® a surface divided into a sequence of regions, each region being divided into one or more sub-regions;® a processor; and(b) one or more physical markers, each marker being dimensioned to be placed in one or more of the sub-regions and adapted to be hand-held and hand manipulated; wherein die processor is configured to:® detect sub -regions upon which one or more of the markers have been placed;• generate a sequence of musical sound signals according to the detected sub-regions ,2. The musical sequencer according to claim 1 further comprising one or more sensors associated with each of one or more of the sub-regions, each sensor generating a signal indicative of one or more markers placed on the associated sub-region.

3. The musical sequencer according to claim 2, wherein one or more of the sensors are pressure sensors detecting one or more markers placed on a sub- region by a pressure exerted on the associated sub-region by the one or more markers.

4. The musical sequencer according to claim 2, wherein one or more of the markers comprise one or more magnets, and one or more of the sensors detect one or more markers placed on a sub-region by a magnetic field produced by one or more of the markers placed on the associated sub-region.

5. The musical sequencer according to any one of the previous claims further comprising one or more speakers ,and wherein the processor is further configured to input one or more of the musical sound signals generated by the processor to the one or more speakers to generate sounds indicated by the musical sound signals.

6. The musical sequencer according to any one of the previous claims wherein the processor is further configured to produce a continuously repeated musical sequence.

7. The musical sequencer according to any one of the previous claims wherein more than one marker may be placed on one or more sub- regions, and wherein the sensors detect the number of markers on a given sub-region and the music data set executed by the processor depends on the number of markers placed on the given sub-region.

8. The musical sequencer according to any one of the previous claims wherein the sensors are adapted to detect a rotational movement of a marker on a given sub-region, and wherein the music data set that is executed by the processor depends on a detected rotational movement of a marker.

9. The musical sequencer according to any one of the previous claims wherein the sensors are adapted to detect a flipping over movement of a marker on a sub-region, and wherein the music data set that is executed by the processor depends on a detected flipping of a marker.

10. The musical sequencer according to any one of the previous claims further provided with one or more sites for connection of the musical sequencer io one or more external devices.

11. The musical sequencer according io any one of the previous claims further comprising a metronome.

12. The musical sequencer according to any one of the previous claims further comprising an Internet of Things (loT) module configured to exchange data with one or more apps.

13. The musical sequencer according to any one of the previous claims wherein the processor is further configured to perform digital signal processing in the generation of the sound signals.

14. The musical sequencer according to any one of the previous claims wherein the processor is further configured with artificial intelligence (.Al) functionalities.

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