A Trial Implementation of Augmented Reality Pitch Visualization in Ensemble Rehearsals: Insights from Wind Instrument Players

While traditional electronic tuners have supported individual pitch training, their visual placement often disrupts posture and coordination in ensemble performance. This study explores the effectiveness and usability of the Musical Pitch Visualization Perception (MVP) support system—an augmented reality (AR) tool that provides real-time pitch feedback via Google Glass. Building on previous laboratory experiments, we deployed the MVP system in a real-world re-hearsal setting with a French horn ensemble to investigate its impact on posture, ensemble coordination, and intonation awareness. Unlike static tuners, the MVP displays color-coded pitch accuracy directly in the performer's field of view, aiming to support visual and auditory focus. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected using questionnaires and interviews. Results suggest that while the system did not substantially enhance pitch accuracy in this complex setting, it contributed to improved posture and attentional coordination within the ensemble. Usability concerns were raised regarding visual clarity and ergonomic limitations of the device. This study highlights both the pedagogical potential and technical limitations of AR-based feedback in collaborative musical environments and points toward the need for improved wearable display technologies for educational use.