I started my idea generation process by creating a mind-map with general ideas, themes, features, values and design aspects I would like to implement into the design of the app. This was helpful in order to start to brainstorm ideas to see what works in relations to others. A lot of the key words were pulled from my research and what I have discovered makes a successful interface. I was determined to find a slant on this brief that was unique as I didn’t want to create just another version of Spotify or Apple Music.
From my prior investigation, I quite liked the idea of an educational music app. I wasn’t entirely sure what this would entail or how this would look so I decided to investigate this further. Through this mind map I discovered that there really were a vast number of ways I could take this.
I think it is best to design what you know. As a traditional Irish harpist, I know a vast amount of knowledge surrounding the tradition of harp playing in Ireland. I think this would be a really interesting interface to design but also a very important one. Preservation of harp playing in Ireland is the forefront of all Irish harpers minds and has been for years. The history of the harp in Ireland is an extremely interesting one that has came across many blockades in it’s time. Therefore, I think creating an app focused on promoting the spread of education and awareness of the harp in Ireland is vital.
Below is a journal by John Gray giving a brief overview of some of many acts of preservation in the tradition. Skip to page three to see my own harp making an appearance!
https://www.harpireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/CEHI-HARP-PERSPECTIVES-John-Gray-1.pdf
