While Jacob’s educational background was in biochemistry, his passion for music led him to the lights. Each year, the Cyclone Marching Band at Iowa State performs at Stephen’s Auditorium and shows off all of the outstanding work that they have put in over the course of their marching season. To begin the CMB’s portion of the performance, the drumline rises from the orchestra pit with the lights out. As they rise, playing their cadences, the drums light up with each hit. Naturally, the crowd lights up, creating one of the most special environments that a musician can feel. Sitting in the top of the auditorium with his trumpet, Jacob thought to himself, “I need one of those for my horn.”
By working closely with the resources at Iowa State, Jacob set out to create lights that could be put on any instrument that were able to change color in response to playing a different note. Through some hard work, lots of time coding and testing, and plenty of meetings with peers and mentors, he was able to build what he set out to create.
As he has moved forward, the product became more applicable than he had ever imagined. It has the power to act as a teaching tool for young musicians, just beginning their musical journey. It can be a way for freelance musicians to engage their audiences in ways that weren’t possible before, and to help them make the most out of their performances. It can act as something to reignite a passion for music as a gift, or personal buy. The brand we set out to create can be whatever you make of it, so long as you have the creativity to apply it.