U.S. patent application number 11/803749 was filed with the patent office on 2008-04-17 for online performance venue system and method.
Invention is credited to Krystina Motsinger.
Application Number | 20080092062 11/803749 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38694555 |
Filed Date | 2008-04-17 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080092062 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Motsinger; Krystina |
April 17, 2008 |
Online performance venue system and method
Abstract
An online performance venue system and method including a
central server and a plurality of user terminals allows users to
meet, communicate, learn, and perform. Users may perform live,
record their performances for later playback or download, such as
for a fee. Users may further create groups or bands and perform and
record together. The system includes a number of additional
features to foster an online community of system users.
Inventors: |
Motsinger; Krystina;
(Winterville, GA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
MYERS & KAPLAN;INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY LAW, L.L.C.
CUMBERLAND CENTER II
3100 CUMBERLAND BLVD , SUITE 1400
ATLANTA
GA
30339
US
|
Family ID: |
38694555 |
Appl. No.: |
11/803749 |
Filed: |
May 15, 2007 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60800381 |
May 15, 2006 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
715/753 ;
709/204 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06Q 10/00 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
715/753 ;
709/204 |
International
Class: |
G06F 15/16 20060101
G06F015/16; G06F 3/048 20060101 G06F003/048 |
Claims
1. An online performance system, comprising: a server connected to
a network; a first client computer connected to the network; and a
second client computer connected to the network, wherein the server
provides an online performance venue into which the first computer
and second computer can connect.
2. The system as claimed in claim 1 further comprising an interface
provided to each of the client computers from the server.
3. The system as claimed in claim 2 wherein the interface provides
a connection between the client computers to allow users of the
client computers to musically interface with one another.
4. The system as claimed in claim 3 wherein the musical interface
provides the users of the client computers to form a virtual band
via the server over the network.
5. The system as claimed in claim 4 wherein additional users of
additional client computers connected to the network can join the
virtual band.
6. The system as claimed in claim 2 wherein the interface provides
a musical coupling between the client computers to allow users of
the client computers to perform together as a band via the
network.
7. The system as claimed in claim 6 wherein the users can rehearse
and perform for other users on the network.
8. The system as claimed in claim 2 wherein the interface provides
a musical coupling to the client computers so that users of the
computers can use the interface for an open-mic venue.
9. The system as claimed in claim 2 wherein the interface provides
access to saved musical performances created by users of the client
computers
10. The system as claimed in claim 2 wherein the interface provides
an online forum for the client computers to discuss and form online
musical bands.
11. The system as claimed in claim 2 wherein users of the client
computers can create bands within a website provided via the
interface.
12. The system as claimed in claim 2 wherein the users can achieve
ranks based on a ranking system provided from the server.
13. The system as claimed in claim 12 wherein the ranks can be
achieved by votes received from users of a plurality of client
computers connected to the network.
14. The system as claimed in claim 13 wherein a high rank is
associated with a mentor role.
15. A method of creating a musical performance using the system of
claim 1, comprising the steps of: capturing music data at said
first client computer; transmitting said music data to said server;
and accessing said music data from said server via said second
client computer, whereby a performance of music at said first
client computer may be accessed at said second client computer via
said network on a substantially real-time basis.
16. The method of claim 15, further comprising the steps of
modifying said music data using said second client computer to form
group performance music data and transmitting said group
performance music data to said server.
17. The method of claim 16, wherein said group performance music
data may be accessed at a third client computer via said
server.
18. A method of operating an online venue comprising the steps of:
providing a server and a plurality of user terminals operably
connected thereto, said server accessible by a plurality of users
via said user terminals; receiving audio data from a first user
terminal via said server, said audio data being captured from a
live performance at said first user terminal; transmitting said
audio data to a second user terminal via said server; receiving
modified audio data from said second user terminal, said modified
audio data comprising said audio data captured from said live
performance at said first user terminal and audio data captured
from a live performance at said second user terminal.
19. The method of claim 18, wherein said live performance at said
first user terminal is performed by a first member of a band.
20. The method of claim 18, wherein said modified audio data
comprises an ensemble performance.
Description
PRIORITY CLAIM
[0001] To the fullest extent permitted by law, the present
non-provisional patent application claims priority to, and the full
benefit of, provisional patent application entitled "Online
Performance Based Venue System and Method", filed on May 15, 2006,
having assigned Ser. No. 60/800,381, incorporated herein by
reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present invention relates generally to the field of
interactive online systems, and, more particularly, to an online
performance venue system and method.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Music of all kinds has long played an influential role in
defining human society, evidenced by its very early development,
myriad forms, and inter-cultural appeal. Nevertheless, music has
traditionally been a predominantly local phenomenon, with the
widespread distribution of recorded music being a relatively recent
development. As such, musicians have traditionally found their
introduction to music, their training, and their inspiration on a
local level. Thus, it is no surprise that groups of musicians are
likewise typically formed from individuals from the same community
or culture. This traditional framework, in which musicians learn,
grow, collaborate, and create, suffers from the geographical
boundaries that restrict access to musical styles and trends, and
the musicians from different cultures from around the country and
around the globe who bring them to life.
[0004] To some extent, recent advances in technology have addressed
the need for improved access to varying musical styles prevalent in
different geographical areas, as well as to geographically isolated
musicians working within the same or similar style. For example,
record companies and other traditional music suppliers have
recognized the growing interest among many individuals in diverse
styles of music and, accordingly, have begun recording and
distributing music of various styles from around the world on a
larger, although still insufficient scale. Additionally, the
availability of digital music via the Internet has enabled
interested individuals to search out and obtain music from around
the world.
[0005] Many problems remain, however, with current systems for
distributing music. Among these are the high cost associated with
production of traditionally recorded and distributed music,
including music distributed via the Internet, and the specialized
facility required for such production. As a result, access to
adequate facilities for recording and distributing music is
markedly limited for many musicians, including many professional
musicians. Furthermore, almost no progress has been made toward
eliminating the barriers between musicians that impede
collaboration and influence, be they geographic, linguistic,
cultural, or the like.
[0006] Thus, it is apparent that a need exists for a system in
which musicians from around the world performing all styles of
music may meet, interact, perform, listen, learn, comment,
collaborate, and grow, including a system and method of music
production and distribution that allows musicians to perform
together regardless of their respective locations and
schedules.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] Briefly described, in a preferred embodiment, the present
invention overcomes the above-mentioned disadvantages and meets the
recognized need for such a system and method by providing a
network-based virtual community, wherein users may create unique
accounts and meet fellow musicians and/or enthusiasts. The system
preferably provides forums for discussion and performance, whereby
users may gain exposure, education, and feedback. Discussion forums
may take the form of text or voice chat rooms, bulletin boards,
message boards, discussion boards, instant messages, emails, or the
like, whereby users have access to varying forms of communication
with fellow users, preferably having varying degrees of formality.
Users may perform live via transmission of a digital stream of data
containing their performance, such as in a live collaboration, live
rehearsal, live concert, or the like. Alternatively, users may
perform via streaming replay of recorded performances or via
download of recorded performances. Preferably, at least one form of
discussion forum is associated with a given performance through
which feedback, or other comment, may be provided contemporaneously
by members of the audience, whereby collaboration and education of
both the performers and the audience members may take place.
[0008] According to its major aspects, and broadly stated, the
present invention, in its preferred form, is a network-based system
wherein musicians may create and/or perform music with or without
an audience, give and receive feedback or other comments, and meet,
collaborate, and perform with other musicians.
[0009] More specifically, the invention features a server connected
to one or more client terminal via a network, wherein the server
provides an online performance venue via receipt and transmission
of music data to and from one or more client terminals. The system
further preferably includes a graphic interface provided to each of
the client terminals from the server via the network to facilitate
navigation and use thereof. Preferably, the graphic interface takes
the form of a website featuring a plurality of pages. The server
preferably further provides a connection between client terminals
to allow users to communicate with one another.
[0010] Separate pages are preferably provided for various features
of the system. For example, a login page is preferably included
whereby users may log into an account to access the system and/or
to identify themselves within the system. A home page or main page
is preferably provided to allow a user to begin navigation of the
system by selecting links associated with different features of the
system based on what the user desires to accomplish. Among the many
features contemplated, the home page may include respective links
to chat rooms, discussion boards, performance areas, a search tool,
a reference tool, a store area, an account management area, a
sign-up area, or the like, each preferably implemented in one or
more webpage.
[0011] The system preferably allows a user to perform music in a
variety of ways. One performance method involves a user giving a
live performance through streaming transmission from the user's
client terminal to the server, and then from the server to selected
audience members via respective client terminals. Another
performance method involves replay of a recorded performance, such
as a performance stored on the server, such as by one or more user
accessing the recorded performance to receive a streaming
transmission thereof via one or more client terminal for listening
or saving.
[0012] The streaming transmissions may further be used to
facilitate group or ensemble performances via a method involving
transmission of a first user's performance data from a first user
terminal to a second user at a second user terminal, either
directly or via the server. The second user may transmit a second
performance on top of the first user's performance to a third user.
The third user may subsequently add an additional layer containing
a third performance. Such layering of performances may preferably
be continued as desired, and may preferably be done on a real-time
basis, a near real-time basis, or on a time-delay basis, thereby
allowing contribution from a nearly unlimited number of users,
regardless of their location and/or schedule. Such layering further
preferably results in a final streaming transmission of a group or
ensemble performance to the server from the last user, whereby the
final transmission may be stored on the server and/or broadcast
live as it is received to an audience of users.
[0013] The communication feature may preferably be accomplished via
the server by providing access to one or more client terminal to
musical performances created by users and saved on the server.
Additionally, users may communicate with one another via text or
voice communication, such as in the form of discussion forums,
message boards, chat rooms, instant messaging, email, user webpages
hosted on the server, and the like. These features of the server
are preferably provided as interactive webpages, wherein users may
create new postings for discussion, reply to postings by others,
contemporaneously chat about streaming music as they listen, such
as a live performance or a recorded performance, and/or chat about
music in general, among other topics, such as in dedicated chat
rooms. The system preferably includes a translation function to
allow users who speak different languages to communicate with one
another.
[0014] Each user preferably maintains an account which is unique to
the user. Accounts of various types are preferably available to a
user either by selection or by participation in the system in the
form of a reward. The user's account preferably includes associated
information about the user's preferences, both for use of the
system as well as musical preferences, such as a preferred
instrument to play, or a preferred genre or user to listen to or
collaborate with. The user's account preferably further includes an
associated avatar or other icon that pictorially or graphically
represents the user, and may be displayed by the system in
association with the user's musical performances, message postings,
attendance at a performance, or the like. The user's avatar or icon
is preferably customizable, such as by selection of various
characteristics by the user during an account creation or
management procedure. Preferably, a user's participation in
selected features or portions of the system are rewarded by
granting the user's account special privileges, titles, awards, or
other recognition, which may or may not be viewable by other users.
A preferred reward allows the user to access otherwise restricted
options for customization of the user's avatar.
[0015] The system preferably further provides a musical
encyclopedia which may be used as a reference for interested
individuals, regardless of whether they maintain a user account or
of what type of account the user maintains. The encyclopedia is
preferably editable by users, wherein users may add or modify
entries in the encyclopedia.
[0016] Accordingly, a feature and advantage of the present
invention is its ability to provide a performance venue for users
over a network, whereby a user's performance may reach large
audiences without geographic or logistic barriers, and whereby
music enthusiasts may experience performances by users playing in a
wide range of styles from all over the world through a single
system at their convenience.
[0017] Another feature and advantage of the present invention is
its ability to allow musicians from around the world to meet,
communicate, collaborate, and perform together regardless of
location, language, or schedule.
[0018] Yet another feature and advantage of the present invention
is its ability to allow musicians to record and distribute
performances, either solo or ensemble, such as by download of
streaming digital music data, with or without a fee.
[0019] These and other features and advantages of the invention
will become more apparent to those ordinarily skilled in the art
after reading the following Detailed Description and Claims in
light of the accompanying drawing Figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0020] Accordingly, the present invention will be understood best
through consideration of, and reference to, the following Figures,
viewed in conjunction with the Detailed Description referring
thereto, in which like reference numerals throughout the various
Figures designate like structures, and in which:
[0021] FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a network-based music
performance venue system according to the present invention;
[0022] FIG. 2 is a plan view of a display provided by the music
performance venue system of the present invention for initial
navigation;
[0023] FIG. 3 is a plan view of a display of the music performance
venue system of the present invention informing users about the
system;
[0024] FIG. 4 is a plan view of a display of the music performance
venue system of the present invention allowing users to join the
system;
[0025] FIG. 5 is a plan view of a display of the music performance
venue system of the present invention showing high-ranked recorded
performances accessible by users of the system;
[0026] FIG. 6 is a plan view of a display of the music performance
venue system of the present invention allowing users to access all
performances on the system;
[0027] FIG. 7 is a plan view of a display of the music performance
venue system of the present invention allowing users to access
informal performance areas;
[0028] FIG. 8 is a plan view of a display of the music performance
venue system of the present invention allowing users to browse and
create encyclopedia entries;
[0029] FIG. 9 is a plan view of a display of a discussion forum
area of the music performance venue system of the present
invention;
[0030] FIG. 10 is a plan view of a display of a chat area of the
music performance venue system of the present invention;
[0031] FIG. 11 is a plan view of a display of the music performance
venue system of the present invention allowing access to a profile
of a user of the system;
[0032] FIG. 12 is a plan view of a display of the music performance
venue system of the present invention allowing a user login to the
system;
[0033] FIG. 13 is a plan view of a display of the music performance
venue system of the present invention allowing a user to access to
a profile of a user of the system;
[0034] FIG. 14 is a plan view of a display of the music performance
venue system of the present invention allowing a user to
participate as an audience member of a performance;
[0035] FIG. 15 is a plan view of a display of the music performance
venue system of the present invention allowing a user to give a
formal performance that may be rated by other users;
[0036] FIG. 16 is a plan view of a display of the music performance
venue system of the present invention allowing one or more users to
give an informal performance or practice;
[0037] FIG. 17 is a plan view of a display of the music performance
venue system of the present invention allowing a user to edit their
profile;
[0038] FIG. 18 is a plan view of a display of the music performance
venue system of the present invention allowing a user to edit an
avatar of their profile; and
[0039] FIG. 19 is a plan view of a display of a store of the music
performance venue system of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0040] In describing preferred embodiments of the present invention
illustrated in the Figures, specific terminology is employed for
the sake of clarity. The invention, however, is not intended to be
limited to the specific terminology so selected, and it is to be
understood that each specific element includes all technical
equivalents that operate in a similar manner to accomplish a
similar purpose.
[0041] In that form of the preferred embodiment of the present
invention chosen for purposes of illustration, FIG. 1 shows system
100 including server 110 connected to a plurality of user terminals
121, 123, 125, and 127 via network 130. Preferably, system 100 is
provided with sufficient capability to support connection of
hundreds, thousands, hundreds of thousands, or more user terminals
to server 100. Additionally server 100 may be formed as a plurality
of servers.
[0042] Server 110 preferably comprises a computer or a network of
computers including communication portion 111, storage portion 113,
and processing portion 115. Communications portion 111 preferably
connects to network 130, such as the Internet, and preferably
facilitates with user terminals 121, 123, 125, and 127 to allow
communication therebetween. Storage portion 113 preferably
comprises a computer readable medium and preferably stores data,
such as user information, recording information, system
information, or the like, and further preferably stores one or more
computer executable program product, such as a program for
recording an incoming stream of music data, a program for
transmitting an outgoing stream of music data, a program for
displaying displays of the system or of programs thereof on a user
terminal, or the like. Processing portion 115 preferably executes
the one or more computer executable program product stored on
storage portion 113. Thus, server 110 preferably performs all of
the system processes and functions described hereinbelow not
performed by one of user terminals 121, 123, 125, and 127.
[0043] Network 130 preferably connects server 110 to each of user
terminals 121, 123, 125, and 127, and preferably allows
transmission of data, such as digital data thereover between server
110 and a selected user terminal. Network 130 preferably takes the
form of the Internet, although other networks may be used,
including wired networks, wireless networks, cellular networks,
satellite networks, local networks, combinations thereof, or the
like. Additionally, network 130 may facilitate direct communication
between one or more user terminal, thereby reducing a burden on
server 110 to pass communications between user terminals.
[0044] Each of user terminals 121, 123, 125, and 127 is likewise
connected to network 130 such that a signal may be sent to and/or
received from server 110 over network 130 via a communication unit,
such as a modem or the like. Furthermore, each of user terminals
121, 123, 125, and 127 includes a processor unit and a computer
readable storage medium having a computer executable program
thereon for generating signals to be sent to server 110 and for
generating a display to a user according to signals received from
server 110. User terminals 121, 123, 125, and 127 preferably take
the form of a personal computer, such as a desktop or laptop
computer, but may alternatively take the form of a mobile device,
such as a cellular phone, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a
combination thereof, or the like capable of storing and executing a
program and communicating with server 110.
[0045] In use, user U1 preferably initiates execution of a computer
program product stored on user terminal 121 to communicate with
server 110 over network 130, such as by transmitting a signal
thereto. Preferably such signal indicates to server 110 that user
U1 has initiated a program to access system 100. In response,
server 100 preferably sends a signal to user terminal 121, such as
a display signal containing display information. Upon receipt, user
terminal 121 preferably creates a display viewable by user U1
according to the display information. Such initial display is
preferably mainpage 200 in the form of a webpage.
[0046] Alternatively, all of the displays may be stored on user
terminal 121, such as part of an executable program product, and
only information is provided from server 110 to be displayed on
user terminal 121 within the executable program product.
[0047] Performance of music is preferably accomplished via
connection of a musical instrument to a user terminal, either
through a microphone, other analog pick-up device, or though direct
input from an electric instrument. User terminal preferably
captures music data from such connection for selective transmission
to server 110 via network 130 upon activation of an appropriate
function of system 100, such as by activation of a "record" button
of a performance room or a practice room of system 100. Server 110
preferably receives the music data and transmits it to other users,
saves it, or both, according to one or more computer program
product running on server 110. Preferably, such transmission(s) are
performed such that little or no degradation in signal quality
results, and such that little or no delay is encountered between
creation, transmission, receipt, and re-transmission and receipt of
the music data. Alternatively users may locally record music data
and subsequently transmit the music data to server 110 for storage
and/or transmission to other users. The other users may preferably
listen to the performance, add to the performance through similar
capture and transmission of music data, and/or save the
performance. Each user accessing a performance, whether as an
audience member or as a collaborator, preferably has simultaneous
access to communication with other users, whereby discussion,
critique, suggestion, instruction, or the like is facilitated.
[0048] A rating system of system 100 for activities associated
therewith is preferably included, and preferably comprises six
grades, such as bronze, silver, gold, sapphire, emerald, and
diamond. The rating system may be employed by users to rate a
performance, a discussion board posting, an encyclopedia entry, a
lesson posting, or the like, of another user. Accordingly, all
users may preferably benefit from the comments and/or rating given
to a particular contribution, such as by being able to assess the
quality of such contribution. For example, a user, including
associates of conventional recording companies, may search for new
performances by rating, choosing only to listen to those
performances which were rated highly, thereby facilitating quick
and easy exposure to the best performances available on system 100,
as rated by users thereof. Similarly, various lists included in the
system may preferably be sorted according to rating, as well as by
other criteria. As such, the ratings may preferably be used to
determine a rank of a performance, a post, an encyclopedia entry,
or the like for comparison with other such contributions to system
100, such as in a ranking system, and for recognition of users who
make same.
[0049] A user rating system is likewise preferably included in
system 100, whereby users may preferably accumulate points or other
credit to advance through the rating system. Greater accumulation
of points or credit preferably increases a user's rating, which may
use the same six levels or different levels. Preferably, the user
rating system includes six levels, such as bronze, silver, gold,
sapphire, emerald, and diamond. Such points or credit may
preferably be accumulated by contribution to system 100 and/or by
ratings associated with such contributions.
[0050] For example, a user may get a predetermined number of points
or amount of credit for simply giving a performance, creating an
encyclopedia entry, recording a performance, accessing a
performance by another user, rating another performance or other
contribution, being chosen as a friend, giving advice through a
mentor system, creating a discussion topic, referring a friend to
use the system, or the like. Additional points or credit may be
given for each additional user who joins the audience of the
performance or who listens to a recorded version of the
performance. Furthermore, additional points or credit may be
accumulated if the performance achieves a predetermined rating,
ranking, or both. Alternatively, points or other credit may be
purchased, traded, or otherwise acquired.
[0051] Now referring to FIGS. 2-19, mainpage 200 preferably
includes links 210, information 230, and banner 250. Activation of
any of links 210, such as by clicking the link with a mouse,
preferably causes a signal to be communicated to server 110
requesting information pertaining to a respective webpage. For
example, activation of link 211 preferably sends a request to
server 110 for information pertaining to an "about us" webpage. In
response server 110 preferably transmits display information to
user terminal 121, which uses same to display "about us" webpage
300, discussed in more detail hereinbelow. Similarly, activating
each of links 212, 214, 215, 216, 217, 218, 219, 221, and 223
preferably causes user terminal 121 to display "join" webpage 400,
"ratings" webpage 500, "recordings" webpage 600, "practice" webpage
700, "encyclopedia" webpage 800, "discussion" webpage 900, "chat"
webpage 1000, "manage profile" webpage 1100, "login" webpage 1200,
and "view profile" webpage 1300, respectively. In addition to links
210, mainpage 200 preferably includes additional information 230
that is viewable without activation of a link or any other action
by user U1.
[0052] Information 230 preferably pertains to system 100, such as a
list of top rated performances available on system 100. Information
230 is preferably stored on storage portion 113, such as in a
database, and is preferably dynamically displayed, such as being
updated in real-time, or periodically, according to a computer
executable program product of server 110. Although no action is
needed to view information 230, one or more portions of information
230 such as text 231 and/or avatar 233 may additionally act as a
link to request and display an associated webpage. Finally,
mainpage 200 preferably includes banner 250 comprising information
outside system 100, such as an advertisement and/or a link to a
webpage outside system 100.
[0053] Links 210 preferably include "about us" link 211, "join"
link 212, "ratings" link 213, "recordings" link 214, "practice"
link 215, "encyclopedia" link 216, "discussion" link 217, "chat"
link 218, "manage profile" link 219, "login" link 221, and "view
profile" link 223. Each of links 210 is preferably associated with
a respective webpage for which information is stored on server 110.
Activation of any of links 210 preferably causes such associated
web site to be displayed on user terminal 121, whereby user U1 may
preferably navigate system 100 to access selected functions
thereof.
[0054] Links 210 preferably take the form of a hypertext link or a
graphic element. For example, information 230, presented in the
form of text, may function as view profile link 223. Specifically,
information 220 may be a list of text 231 the top 10 highest rated
performances on system 100 over the last week, or over the last
day. Thus, activating hypertext "view profile" link 223a preferably
displays "view profile" webpage 1300 corresponding to the ranked
user. As a further example, graphic view profile link 223b
preferably takes the form of a graphic icon, such as an avatar 233
corresponding to the ranked user. Preferably, clicking anywhere on
the icon, or otherwise activating link 223b, causes "view profile"
webpage 1300 to be displayed corresponding to the ranked user.
[0055] Preferably, one or more of links 210 comprise icons
including graphic representations of musical instruments. As such,
links 210 may be arranged anywhere on a webpage, such as mainpage
200, and preferably are arranged so as to create an image in
conjunction with a background, such as background 201 of mainpage
200, such as an image of a stage, a concert hall, a cafe, a
rehearsal room, a book, a library, a theatre, or the like. It will
be understood, however, that one or more links 210 may
alternatively be displayed in a separate bar, such as a side-bar, a
header, a footer, or the like. Likewise, links 210 may be provided
in pane 203, with or without scroll bar 205, or the like.
[0056] Activation of "about us" link 211, preferably formed as a
graphic icon, such as a button with "What is Vivid M?" displayed
thereon, by user U1 preferably causes user terminal 121 to display
"about us" webpage 300. "About us" webpage 300 preferably includes
header 310 containing an indication that "about us" webpage 300 is
being displayed, Frequently asked questions 320, answers thereto
330, and pane 340 containing one or more links, such as links
211-219, all displayed over background 301. Background 301 is
preferably selected to include one or more colors, patterns,
images, or the like, optionally including animation, as desired.
Frequently asked questions 320 preferably comprises a plurality of
questions in the form of hypertext links that a new or old user may
likely have and to which they may likely want to find an answer.
Answers 330 are preferably arranged below frequently asked
questions 320. A user may simply scroll or otherwise browse through
answers 330 to preferably gain knowledge and/or familiarity with
system 100. Alternatively, user U1 may activate one of hypertext
links 321 to cause a corresponding portion of answers 330 to be
displayed containing the answer to the corresponding question, such
as in text form.
[0057] Activation of "join" link 212, preferably formed as a
graphic icon, such as a button with "Join Up" displayed thereon, by
user U1 preferably causes user terminal 121 to display "join"
webpage 400. "Join" webpage 400 preferably includes header 410,
entry fields 420, submit button 430, and pane 440 having links
211-219, displayed over background 401. Background 401 is
preferably selected to include one or more colors, patterns,
images, or the like, optionally including animation, as desired.
Header 410 preferably includes title 411 identifying that "join"
webpage 400 is being displayed. User U1 may preferably enter
information, such as a desired stage name, a desired password,
personal information, contact information, music information,
payment information, or the like in entry fields 420. Preferably,
when user U1 has completed entry of information in entry fields
420, user U1 may preferably activate submit button 430, thereby
causing the entered information to be sent to server 110 for
processing.
[0058] If user U1 has entered a unique stage name, a satisfactory
password, and all required personal, contact, music, payment, and
other information, server 110 will create an account, such as by
storing the entered information on storage portion 113 for use by
one or more executable computer program products, either stored on
server 110 or on user terminal 121. If there is a problem with the
entered information, server 110 preferably prompts user U1 to
correct such problem and re-submit the user's information to create
an account.
[0059] Activation of "ratings" link 213, preferably formed as a
graphic icon, such as a button with "Hot Tracks" displayed thereon,
by user U1 preferably causes user terminal 121 to display "ratings"
webpage 500. "Ratings" webpage 500 preferably includes header 510,
entry field 520, submit button 530, first information portion 540,
second information portion 550, links 560, and pane 570 having
links 211-219, all displayed over background 501. Background 501 is
preferably selected to include one or more colors, patterns,
images, or the like, optionally including animation, as desired.
Header 510 preferably includes title 511, such as a graphic icon,
indicating that "ratings" webpage 500 is being displayed.
[0060] User U1 may preferably enter information, such as a word,
phrase, name, or the like in entry field 520. Activating submit
button 530 preferably causes server 110 to search, such as on
storage portion 113, for recorded performances having associated
information matching the entered information, such as a performer's
name, a performer's stage name, a recording title, a recording
genre, a recording date, or the like. Server 110 preferably causes
user terminal 121 to display a results webpage (not shown)
containing a heading, a list of results with information matching
the entered information, and a navigation pane having links. Each
entry in the list is preferably formed as a link to "playback"
webpage 1400, discussed in more detail below, whereby a selected
recording may be played on user terminal 121 and whereby user U1
may listen to a selected recording.
[0061] First information portion 540 preferably includes header 541
indicating what information is displayed therein, such as "Top Ten
Downloaded Songs", and hypertext links 543. Each of hypertext links
543 preferably comprises a text description of a respective one of
the most frequently downloaded songs, such as over the last week,
over the history of system 100, or the like. Clicking on any one of
links 543 preferably causes "playback" webpage 1400 to be
displayed, whereby user U1 may listen to a selected recording.
[0062] Second information portion 550 preferably includes header
551 indicating what information is displayed therein, such as "New
Tracks", and hypertext links 553. Each of hypertext links 553
preferably comprises a text description of a respective one of the
most recently recorded songs, such as the ten most recently
recorded songs, or the like. Clicking on any one of links 553
preferably causes "playback" webpage 1400 to be displayed, whereby
user U1 may listen to a selected recording.
[0063] Links 560 preferably comprise a plurality of hypertext
links, such as links to results webs (not shown) for recordings of
a corresponding genre, musical instrument, or the like. The result
webpage preferably includes a list of recorded songs in the
selected genre, or the like. Preferably, the list may be sorted,
such as by title, artist, recording date, rating, recording length,
or the like, whereby user U1 may preferably browse all recordings
within a selected genre or the like.
[0064] Activation of "recordings" link 214, preferably formed as a
graphic icon, such as a button with "Performances" displayed
thereon, by user U1 preferably causes user terminal 121 to display
"recordings" webpage 600. "Recordings" webpage 600 preferably
includes header 610, "now playing" section 620, "coming soon"
section 630, "recordings" section 640, "new performance" section
650, entry field 660, submit button 670, and pane 680 having links
211-219, all displayed over background 601. Background 601 is
preferably selected to include one or more colors, patterns,
images, or the like, optionally including animation, as desired,
and is preferably formed as a theatre sign. Header 610 preferably
includes title 611, such as a graphic icon, indicating that
"performances" webpage 600 is being displayed, such as arranged to
form part of the theatre sign.
[0065] "Now playing" section 620 preferably contains truncated list
621 of scheduled performances currently underway or scheduled to
start within a predetermined amount of time. List 621 preferably
includes information corresponding to a respective performance,
including a performer's stage name, a start time, an instrument, a
genre, or the like. At least a part of such information is
preferably displayed in the form of a hypertext link. User U1 may
activate the link to display "playback" webpage 1400, whereby user
U1 may listen to the selected performance along with one or more
other users. "Now playing" section 620 preferably further comprises
link 622, activation of which preferably causes "now playing
chronological" webpage (not shown) to be displayed, containing a
list of all performances currently underway or scheduled to begin
within a predetermined amount of time, such as within five minutes.
The list is preferably sorted chronologically, beginning with the
performance that began the longest amount of time ago, and ending
with the performance scheduled for the longest time in the future.
Finally, "now playing" section 620 preferably comprises link 623,
activation of which preferably causes "now playing genre" webpage
(not shown) to be displayed, containing a list of all performances
underway or scheduled to begin within a predetermined amount of
time, such as within five minutes. This list is preferably sorted
by genre of music, with separate chronological lists arranged below
associated genre headings.
[0066] "Coming soon" section 630 preferably contains truncated list
631 of performances scheduled to start within at a later time, such
as in an hour or more, the following day, or the like. List 631
preferably includes information corresponding to a respective
performance, including a performer's stage name, a start time, an
instrument, a genre, or the like. At least a part of such
information is preferably displayed in the form of a hypertext
link. User U1 may activate the link to create a reminder, such as
an email reminder or a list of tagged performances. "Coming soon"
section 630 preferably further comprises link 632, activation of
which preferably causes "coming soon chronological" webpage (not
shown) to be displayed, containing a list of all performances
scheduled to begin at a later time, such as after one hour or more,
the next day, or the like. The list is preferably sorted
chronologically, beginning with the performance that will begin
soonest, and ending with the performance scheduled for the longest
time in the future (or last where the list is truncated by time
till performance). Finally, "coming soon" section 630 preferably
comprises link 633, activation of which preferably causes "coming
soon genre" webpage (not shown) to be displayed, containing a list
of all performances scheduled to begin after a predetermined amount
of time, such as after one hour (and optionally before a
predetermined amount of time, such as not more than one month).
This list is preferably sorted by genre of music, with separate
chronological lists arranged below associated genre headings.
[0067] "Recordings" section 640 preferably contains truncated list
641 of recorded performances. List 641 preferably includes
information corresponding to a respective performance, including a
performer's stage name, a start time, an instrument, a genre, or
the like. At least a part of such information is preferably
displayed in the form of a hypertext link. User U1 may activate the
link to display "playback" webpage 1400, whereby user U1 may listen
to the selected recorded performance. "Recordings" section 640
preferably further comprises link 642, activation of which
preferably causes "recordings chronological" webpage (not shown) to
be displayed, containing a list of all recorded performances. The
list is preferably sorted chronologically, beginning with the most
recently recorded performance. Finally, "recordings" section 640
preferably comprises link 643, activation of which preferably
causes "recordings genre" webpage (not shown) to be displayed,
containing a list of all recorded performances. This list is
preferably sorted by genre of music, with separate chronological
lists arranged below associated genre headings.
[0068] "New performance" section 650 preferably includes link 651
which, upon activation, preferably displays "new performance"
webpage (not shown). "New performance" webpage (not shown)
preferably allows user U1 to create a new "performance hall"
webpage 1500 for immediate use and/or schedule a performance for a
later time. User U1 may preferably enter information pertaining to
the performance, such as by entry of text or the like in one or
more entry fields, by selection of options from one or more
drop-down menus or radio buttons, or the like. When user U1 has
completed setting up the new performance by entering information
pertaining thereto, user U1 may then submit the information, such
as by activating a button. Preferably, user U1 will enter
information pertaining to a time of the performance, including a
date and time, an instrument to be played, a musical style of the
performance, a type of venue, access restrictions, a title, or the
like. Upon submission, server 110 preferably stores the
information, such as in a database for later retrieval, such as for
creating a list of scheduled performances or performances in
progress, or for alerting selected users of the performance through
text messages, emails, banners, pop-ups, or the like. Selection of
the type of venue preferably determines how many, and which users
will be able to join the venue, perform, listen to the performance,
chat (either before, during, or after the performance), rate the
performance, and the like. Users preferably have full control over
all aspects of the performance to ensure that system 100 is
flexible enough to meet the performance needs of all users. Thus,
performances may be on a large or small scale, may be accessed by
all users or restricted as desired, may be recorded or not, rated
or not, advertised or not, as desired by the performing user, or
users in the event of a group performance.
[0069] Entry field 660 is preferably useful for finding
performances of all kinds, such as by searching server 110. Such
searching is preferably conducted via entry of a word, phrase,
name, stage name, instrument, genre, date, time, title, or the
like. User U1 may preferably activate submit button 670 to generate
and display a filtered list of performances or all types, i.e. "now
playing", "coming soon", and "recordings" having associated
information (e.g. performer name, performer stage name, song title,
band name, genre, instrument, rating, or the like, such as stored
on server 110) matching the entered word, phrase, name, time, or
the like. Such a filtered list may preferably be displayed on a new
webpage, and may include headings, navigation panes with links to
other sections of system 100, links to different sections of the
list, such as "now playing", "coming soon", "recordings", or the
like, additional or alternative filters, such as filters that
display a new list having only performances of a selected genre,
instrument, rating, or the like.
[0070] Thus, a user may preferably access performances by other
users, whether live or recorded, and may preferably create new
performances, whether solo or group performances, recorded or live,
via "performance" webpage 600. Each of the sections of
"performance" webpage 600 described may be altered to suit the
needs of users, either globally throughout system 100 or for an
individual user, such as through the user's profile settings.
[0071] Now referring more particularly to FIG. 7, activation of
"practice" link 215, preferably formed as a graphic icon, such as a
button with "Open Mic" displayed thereon, by user U1 preferably
causes user terminal 121 to display "practice" webpage 700.
"Practice" webpage 700 preferably includes header 710, entry field
720, entry field 730, submit button 740, information portion 750,
and pane 760 having links 211-219, all displayed over background
701. Background 701 is preferably selected to include one or more
colors, patterns, images, or the like, optionally including
animation, as desired. Header 710 preferably includes title 711,
such as a graphic icon, indicating that "practice" webpage 700 is
being displayed.
[0072] User U1 may preferably create a practice room by entering a
room title in entry field 720 such as an alphanumeric title, select
a characteristic about the room, such as public or private, using
entry field 730, and by submitting such information by activating
submit button 740. Upon activation of submit button 740, "practice
room" website 1600 is preferably displayed on user terminal 121,
and an entry corresponding to the practice room created by user U1
is preferably added to list 751 displayed in information portion
750. Preferably, list 751 contains a list, such as a truncated list
or a complete list of created practice rooms, including some or all
information pertaining to such rooms. Preferably the title, the
user's name, a number of listeners, an age of the practice room, an
indication of whether the room is public or private, or the like is
included for each practice room in list 751. Thus, user U1
preferably enters a title containing desired information about the
practice room, about user U1, or the like such that other users
browsing or searching list 751 will be able to better select a
practice room to join. If user U1 selects a private room, user U1
may preferably invite other users, either by name, by rating, or by
other information.
[0073] Activation of "encyclopedia" link 216, preferably formed as
a graphic icon, such as a button with "Musicus Pedius" displayed
thereon, by user U1 preferably causes user terminal 121 to display
"encyclopedia" webpage 800. "Encyclopedia" webpage 800 preferably
includes header 810, entry field 820, submit button 830, links 840,
and information portion 850, all displayed over background 801.
Background 801 is preferably selected to include one or more
colors, patterns, images, or the like, optionally including
animation, as desired, and is preferably formed as an open book
with blank pages. Header 810 preferably includes title 811, such as
a graphic icon, indicating that "encyclopedia" webpage 800 is being
displayed.
[0074] User U1 may preferably enter a word, phrase, name, stage
name, genre, song title, date, or the like in entry field 820 and
activate submit button 830 to display a list of topics or entries
matching the entered word, phrase, or the like, such as in
information portion 850. Preferably, each item in the list includes
a link which, upon activation, displays the full contents of the
selected entry, such as in information portion 850. Preferably, the
list may be displayed on a first section of information portion
850, such as a section corresponding to a left-hand page of the
open book of background 801, while the full contents of the
selected entry may be displayed on a second section of information
portion 850, such as a section corresponding to a right-hand page
of the open book of background 801. Preferably, activation of a
different link of the list displays the full contents associated
with the newly selected entry on the second section of information
portion 850. Likewise, entry of a new phrase in entry field 820 and
activation of submit button 830 preferably displays a new list on
the first section of information portion 850.
[0075] Alternatively, user U1 may activate one of links 840,
preferably formed as icons, such as icons formed as a book, to
display a list of topics. For example, one of links 840 may be
formed as an icon formed as a book with the word "musicians" on the
spine. Activation of such a link preferably displays a list of
musicians about whom entries have been created, such as an
alphabetical list, a chronological list, a list organized by genre,
or the like. Others of links 840 may preferably be formed as books
bearing other topics on their spines or covers, such as terms,
composers, lyricists, instruments, eras, symbols, or the like.
[0076] Thus, user U1 may preferably browse and/or search the
encyclopedia to read, see, and/or hear information entered into the
encyclopedia. Preferably, such information is entered into the
encyclopedia by users. As such, the content of the encyclopedia
will preferably grow in volume, and will preferably contain entries
of interest to users of system 100. Alternatively, some or all of
the information entered in the encyclopedia may be entered by one
or more system managers, or by third parties, such as persons paid
to generate entries.
[0077] Activation of "discussion" link 217, preferably formed as a
graphic icon, such as a button with "Forum" displayed thereon, by
user U1 preferably causes user terminal 121 to display "discussion"
webpage 900. "Discussion" webpage 900 preferably includes header
910, entry field 920, submit button 930, information portion 940,
and pane 950 having links 211-219, all displayed over background
901. Background 901 is preferably selected to include one or more
colors, patterns, images, or the like, optionally including
animation, as desired. Header 910 preferably includes title 911,
such as a graphic icon, indicating that "discussion" webpage 900 is
being displayed.
[0078] Information portion 940 preferably includes list 941 of
discussion topics, such as a chronological list arranged according
to the most recent post. Each entry in 941 preferably includes
avatar 942, such as an avatar of the creator of the topic, or of
the most recent contributor to the topic. Each entry in list 941
preferably further includes topic heading 943 and text 944, such as
at least a portion of a post under the topic, such as the most
recent post. Each of avatars 942, topic heading 943, and text 944
preferably comprises a link. Activation of link 223b associated
with avatar 942 preferably displays a "view profile" webpage 1300
of an associated user. Activation of a link associated with topic
heading 943 or text 944 preferably displays a complete thread of
posts under the topic. Thus, users may create, read, and contribute
to threads of posts under a particular selected topic of
discussion.
[0079] Activation of "chat" link 218, preferably formed as a
graphic icon, such as a button with "Chat Cafe" displayed thereon,
by user U1 preferably causes user terminal 121 to display "chat"
webpage 1000. "Chat" webpage 1000 preferably includes header 1010,
entry field 1020, entry field 1030, submit button 1040, information
portion 1050, and pane 1060 having links 211-219, all displayed
over background 1001. Background 1001 is preferably selected to
include one or more colors, patterns, images, or the like,
optionally including animation, as desired. Header 1010 preferably
includes title 1011, such as a graphic icon, indicating that "chat"
webpage 1000 is being displayed.
[0080] User U1 may preferably create a new chat room by entering a
title in entry field 1020, entering additional information, such as
public, private, or the like, about the room to be created in entry
field 1030, and activating submit button 1040. Upon submission, an
entry corresponding to the newly created room is added to list 1051
of currently available chat rooms displayed in information portion
1050. Preferably, list 1051 includes information about each
available room, such as a title of the room, the name or other
information about the creator of the room, an indication of whether
the room is public or private, the number of users in the room, an
age of the room, or the like, and a link 1052 associated therewith.
Activation of one of links 1052 preferably displays a corresponding
chat room (not shown) whereby users may discuss, either through
voice or text chat, various topics. In many respects, "chat"
webpage 1000 is preferably similar to "practice" webpage 700, and
the chat rooms (not shown) are preferably similar to practice room
1600, with the exception that the chat room does not have the music
performance functionality of practice room 1600.
[0081] Activation of "manage profile" link 219, preferably formed
as a graphic icon, such as a button with "Manage Profile" displayed
thereon, by user U1 preferably causes user terminal 121 to display
"manage profile" webpage 1100. "Manage profile" webpage 1100
preferably includes header 1110, message link 1120, edit profile
link 1130, edit avatar link 1140, information portion 1150, edit
friends link 1160, and pane 1170 having links 211-219, all
displayed over background 1101. Background 1101 is preferably
selected to include one or more colors, patterns, images, or the
like, optionally including animation, as desired. Header 1110
preferably includes title 1111, such as a graphic icon, indicating
that "manage profile" webpage 1100 is being displayed.
[0082] Activation of message link 1120 by user U1 preferably
displays messages sent to user U1 by other users of system 100 and
preferably allow user U1 to respond thereto and/or create new
messages to other users. Activation of "edit friends" link 1160
preferably displays a "friends management" webpage (not shown)
whereby user U1 may preferably add and remove stage names of
friends. Those users whose stage names are included in the friends
list preferably appear on the "manage profile" webpage, such as in
the form of hypertext links 223a, such that user U1 may quickly
access a respective "view profile" page for the friend.
[0083] Information portion 1150 preferably includes a display of
all of the information stored on server 110 about user U1 in
association with the user's account, whereby user U1 may easily
view what information is stored, and identify when such information
needs to be updated or otherwise altered. For example, a user's
real name, age, address, email address, personal website, preferred
instrument(s), biography, musical influences, or the like may be
stored on server 110, such as during a sign-up process.
Additionally, information portion 1150 preferably includes
information about the user's activity within system 100, such as
upcoming scheduled performances, saved recordings, any ratings
associated therewith, the user's current rank, a display of
achievements or points accumulated through system 100, or the like.
Finally, the user's current avatar is preferably displayed whereby
user U1 may preferably decide whether to edit same. Some or all of
the information may preferably be formed as a hypertext link,
whereby activation of the link will display a list of other users
whose profile pages contain the same piece of information. For
example, each of the musician and/or band names included in the
user's influences list is preferably formed as a link whereby
activation of one of the links displays a list of other users who
have named the same musician and/or band as an influence. Thus, the
links of the profile page preferably foster community by allowing
users to easily find and contact other users who have similar
taste, style, preferences, or the like, or who are the same age,
live in the same area, have the same rank, have the same friends,
have listened to the user's performances, ranked the user's
performances highly, or the like.
[0084] In order to change any of the information displayed on
information portion 1150, user U1 preferably activates edit profile
link 1130, whereby "edit profile" webpage 1700 is preferably
displayed. "Edit profile" webpage 1700 preferably includes entry
fields 1710 corresponding to a respective piece of information,
such as a drop-down menu, a text box, or the like. Additionally,
each entry field 1710 includes a toggle whereby user U1 may
preferably show or hide the information entered in the
corresponding entry field 1710.
[0085] In order to change the user's avatar, user U1 preferably
activates edit avatar link 1140, whereby "edit avatar" webpage 1800
is preferably displayed. "Edit avatar" webpage 1800 preferably
includes avatar view portion 1810, physical appearance editor
portion 1820, clothing editor portion 1830, store portion 1840, and
buttons 1850. Avatar view portion 1810 preferably displays a
preview of what the user's avatar will look like if changes are
accepted. Physical appearance editor portion 1820 preferably
includes selections for eye color, skin color, lip color, cheek
color, make-up, hair color, eye shape, lip shape, hair style, and
the like. Each selection is preferably formed as an icon,
activation of which preferably causes avatar view portion 1810 to
display the user's avatar with the selected icon incorporated.
Clothing editor portion 1830 preferably likewise includes a
plurality of icons representing various articles of clothing.
Activation of any of the icons preferably causes avatar view
portion 1810 to display the user's avatar including the selected
article of clothing. Alternatively, user U1 may preferably drag
clothing articles to avatar view portion 1810 to cause display of
same. Additional or alternative articles of clothing and/or
physical appearance options may be purchased by activating a "buy
new styles" link of store portion 1840, which preferably displays
"store" webpage 1900.
[0086] "Store" webpage 1900 preferably includes header 1910, links
1920, inventory portion 1930, detail portion 1940, and buy button
1950. Inventory portion 1930 preferably comprises a plurality of
icons. All icons are preferably associated with a particular rank,
whereby a user may only gain access to items associated with a
particular rank after having achieved the rank, such as by use of
system 100. Icons are preferably accessed by activating a selected
link of links 1920. Alternatively, icons may be accessed according
to price. Each icon is preferably formed as a link, activation of
which preferably causes details pertaining to the selected icon to
be displayed in display portion 1940, such as a price in currency,
or in accumulated points, a time of availability, a number of items
in stock, or the like. Activation of buy button 1950 preferably
adds the selected icon to the user's wardrobe, i.e. it will appear
in clothing editor portion 1830, if the user has sufficient credits
(i.e. money or points) to purchase the item, at which time a
corresponding amount of credits will be deducted from the balance
associated with the user's account.
[0087] Activation of "login" link 221, preferably formed as a
graphic icon, such as a button with "Login" displayed thereon or a
musical instrument displayed over background 201, by user U1
preferably causes user terminal 121 to display "login" webpage
1200. "Login" webpage 1200 preferably includes header 1210, entry
field 1220, entry field 1230, and submit button 1240, all displayed
over background 1201. Background 1201 is preferably selected to
include one or more colors, patterns, images, or the like,
optionally including animation, as desired. Header 1210 preferably
includes title 1211, such as a graphic icon, indicating that
"login" webpage 1200 is being displayed.
[0088] User U1 may preferably enter a stage name in entry field
1220 and a password in entry field 1230. Upon activation of submit
button 1240 the stage name and password entered in entry fields
1220 and 1230 are preferably compared to information stored on
server 110, such as a database of account information. If the
entered information matches information corresponding to an account
stored on server 110, user U1 is preferably authenticated to the
server, mainpage 200 is preferably displayed, or another webpage
may be displayed if such preference is saved in the user's account
information, whereby user U1 may preferably access otherwise
restricted portions of system 100, whereby the user will be
identified throughout system 100, such as through the user's
avatar, stage name, or both appearing in chat rooms, discussion
boards, performance rooms, practice rooms, or the like of system
100, and whereby user U1 will preferably be awarded for activities
conducted on system 100 while logged in.
[0089] Activation of "view profile" link 223, preferably formed as
a graphic icon or a hypertext link, by user U1 preferably causes
user terminal 121 to display "view profile" webpage 1300. "View
profile" webpage 1300 preferably includes header 1310, information
portion 1320, friend link 1330, message link 1340, chat link 1350,
and pane 1360 having links 211-219, all displayed over background
1301. Background 1301 is preferably selected to include one or more
colors, patterns, images, or the like, optionally including
animation, as desired, such as by a user whose profile is
displayed. Header 1310 preferably includes title 1311, such as a
graphic icon or text, indicating the stage name of user U2, whose
information is displayed on "view profile" webpage 1300.
[0090] Information portion 1320 preferably includes a display of
all information entered by user U2, such as during a sign-up
process or during a profile editing process, and marked as public
or otherwise selected to be displayed. Thus, activation of "view
profile" link 223, in any form or location, preferably allows user
U1 to view whatever information user U2 desires of the profile of
user U2, whereby user's may learn more about other users of system
100. User U1 may preferably activate friend link 1330 if user U1
wants user U2 to be listed in friend section 1321 of user U1's own
"view profile" webpage 1300 when accessed by others. Additionally,
if user U1 want to communicate directly with user U2, such as to
discuss music, set up a performance together, or the like, user U1
may preferably activate message link 1340 to send user U2 an
instant message, send user U2 an email, or the like. If user U1
wants to invite user U2 to a chat room, user U1 may preferably
activate chat link 1350.
[0091] Now referring more particularly to FIG. 14, "playback"
webpage 1400 preferably includes header 1410, audience pane 1420,
chat pane 1430, control bar 1440, avatar 1450, and navigation pane
1460 having links 211-219, all displayed over background 1401.
Background 1401 is preferably selected to include one or more
colors, patterns, images, or the like, optionally including
animation, as desired, and is preferably formed as a stage. Header
1410 preferably includes song title 1411, user stage name 1412 of
the performing user, and rank indication 1413, such as a symbol or
text indicating the current rank held by the performing user.
Audience pane 1420 preferably includes a list of stage names of
users who are visiting "playback" webpage 1400. Chat pane 1430
preferably allows each of the users visiting "playback" webpage
1400 to read and write text chat, or to speak and hear voice chat,
whereby users may, for example, discuss a performance being
played.
[0092] Control bar 1440 preferably allows user U1 to start and stop
receiving a streaming broadcast of a performance, either live or
recorded, using buttons 1441. If the performance is live, and user
U1 joins "playback" webpage after the beginning of the performance,
user U1 may preferably still listen to the performance, either from
the beginning or picking up in the middle. After listening for a
predetermined amount of time, such as a minute or thirty seconds,
user U1 may preferably rate the performance using scale 1443, such
as on a 1-6 scale. Such rating preferably is recorded and averaged
with other users who rated the performance to determine an overall
rating for the performance, which may determine, at least ion part,
its place in "ratings" webpage 500, and may determine, at least in
part, how many points are earned by the performing user.
Additionally, control bar 1440 preferably includes about link 1445
that displays additional information about the performance.
Finally, timer 1447 preferably displays a running time of the
performance. Avatar 1450 is preferably displayed over background
1401 such that avatar 1450 appears as though it is on-stage. Avatar
1450 is preferably the avatar of the performing user, and
preferably functions as graphic link 233b to "view profile" webpage
1300.
[0093] While user U1, and other users in the audience, preferably
sees "playback" website 1400, user U2 who is performing preferably
sees "performance hall" website 1500. "Performance hall" website
1500 preferably includes header 1510, audience pane 1520, chat pane
1530, control bar 1540, avatar 1550, and navigation pane 1560
having links 211-219, all displayed over background 1501.
Background 1501 is preferably selected to include one or more
colors, patterns, images, or the like, optionally including
animation, as desired, and is preferably formed as a stage. Header
1510 preferably includes song title 1511, user stage name 1512 of
the user U2, and rank indication 1513, such as a symbol or text
indicating the current rank held by user U2. Audience pane 1520
preferably includes a list of stage names of users who are visiting
"playback" webpage 1400. Chat pane 1530 preferably allows user U2
to chat with users visiting "playback" website 1400.
[0094] Control bar 1540 preferably allows user U2 to start and stop
recording a streaming broadcast of a performance, either live or
recorded, using buttons 1541. Additionally, control bar 1540
preferably includes settings link 1545 that allows user U2 to
configure "performance hall" website 1500, such as to accommodate
the user's connection speed, or the like. Finally, timer 1547
preferably displays a running time of the performance. Avatar 1550
of user U2 is preferably displayed over background 1501 such that
avatar 1550 appears as though it is on-stage.
[0095] As discussed above, "practice room" website 1600 may be used
as an alternative performance portion of system 100 to "performance
hall" website 1500, and is preferably accessed via "practice"
website 700. Preferably, "practice room" website 1600 is similar to
"performance hall" website 1500, and preferably includes header
1610, audience pane 1620, chat pane 1630, control bar 1640, avatar
1650, and navigation pane 1660 having links 211-219, all displayed
over background 1601. Background 1601 is preferably selected to
include one or more colors, patterns, images, or the like,
optionally including animation, as desired, and is preferably
formed as a stage. In the case of "practice room" website 1600,
however, each user in the practice room preferably has "practice
room" website 1600 displayed on a corresponding user terminal.
Accordingly, each user present in the practice room preferably has
the ability to begin a streaming transmission to the other
attendees via control bar 1640. Thus, "practice room" website 1600
may preferably be used as an "open-mic" style performance venue.
Preferably more than one user may begin such a streaming
transmission at the same time, such that one or more users may
perform at the same time. Alternatively, performance may be
restricted to a single user at a time, and different users may play
sequentially. Communication, such as through chatting, is
preferably enabled at all times, and is preferably open to all
users visiting "practice room" website 1600.
[0096] In use, system 100 is preferably used to create musical
performances by capturing music data at user terminal 121,
transmitting such music data to server 110, and transmitting the
music data to an audience member via user terminal 123. The music
data may be stored, permanently or temporarily, on server 110,
and/or on user terminal 123. In addition, system 100 may enable
manipulation of the music data at user terminal 121, server 110,
and/or user terminal 123. Such manipulation may take the form of
adding music data thereto, deleting some or all music data
therefrom, and/or modifying some or all music data. Thus, such
modification may take place, for example, after capture thereof and
before transmission to server 110, after transmission to server 110
and before transmission to user terminal 123, and/or after
transmission to user terminal 123.
[0097] A preferred method of creating a musical performance using
system 100 includes user U1 capturing music data, transmitting the
music data to server 110, transmitting the music data to user U2,
manipulating the music data by adding additional music data, and
transmitting the manipulated music data to server 110 for
transmission to one or more additional users comprising an
audience. Preferably the above steps take place simultaneously, or
nearly so, such that users U1 and U2 preferably create a finished
collaborative performance almost in real-time for immediate
performance to an audience of users.
[0098] Users U1 and U2, among others, may preferably schedule a
performance in advance, promote such performance via message
boards, email, instant messages, chat rooms, banners, or the like
of system 100, and/or other means outside system 100 to generate
interest in the performance. Users U1 and U2 may then preferably
sell or otherwise distribute tickets, invitations, or the like to
users interested in participating as an audience member of such
performance. Thus, system 100 preferably includes sufficient
options for performance to mimic conventional brick-and-mortar
performance venues, with or without additional audio and/or video
recording and/or broadcasting of the performance, as well as to
enable unique performance venues, such as virtual practice rooms
and performance halls whereby users from around the world may
create and distribute musical performances.
[0099] Alternatively, two or more users may congregate at user
terminal 121, or the like, and capture music data corresponding to
an ensemble performance for subsequent distribution through system
100, with or without modification, either live or available at a
later time. Such distribution, like distribution of all
performances via system 100, may preferably be accomplished through
a restricted streaming data feed whereby saving and/or modifying
the data stream is prevented by system 100. Alternatively, such
distribution may preferably be accomplished through an unrestricted
streaming data feed, whereby users comprising an audience may save,
modify, reproduce, remake, or otherwise use such music data as they
wish.
[0100] To facilitate such distribution, system 100 preferably
includes licensing information corresponding to each performance
associated therewith, whereby the licensing information preferably
creates criteria for restricting or allowing access, use,
modification, transmission, or the like of a particular performance
by a particular user base on licensing information associate with
the particular user's profile or account.
[0101] As an example, user U1 may preferably create a practice
room, such as by user of "practice" webpage 700, whereby user U1
may preferably give an informal performance using a selected
instrument therein. Preferably one or more other users, such as
users U2 and U3, may preferably join the practice room, such as by
accepting an invitation, by searching for a practice room, or the
like. Once inside, users U1, U2, and U3 may preferably all discuss
desired topics, such as via text chat within "practice" webpage
700. Preferably users U2 and U3 may preferably provide feedback,
comment, suggestions, encouragement, or the like. Furthermore,
users U2 and U3 may preferably likewise give an informal
performance using a selected instrument in order to solicit advice,
comment, suggestion, instruction, or the like, or to illustrate a
comment, suggestion, instruction, or the like. Thus, users U1, U2,
and U3, among others, may meet, perform and interact, whereby each
may preferably learn and grow as a musician. If desired, users U1,
U2, and U3 may agree to form a band, based on hearing each other
perform or based on any other criteria, wherein users U1, U2, and
U3 may preferably practice and give ensemble performances.
[0102] Such an ensemble performance may be given by creating a
performance hall, such as by scheduling a performance using
performance webpage 600. At the scheduled time, or preferably
before, users U1, U2, and U3 may preferably join the performance
hall and setup their respective user terminals and/or system 100
for optimal or better sound quality or the like. Users U1, U2, and
U3 may preferably communicate via chat or the like to facilitate
such setup, or to discuss the upcoming performance or the like.
Numerous additional users may preferably join the performance hall
as audience members and may preferably communicate with other
audience members, and/or the users U1, U2, and U3, such as via the
chat feature. Preferably, at the scheduled performance time the
performance may begin. The performance may be given, for example,
by user U1 beginning to play music, thereby causing the
transmission of data corresponding to such performance to be
transmitted to user U2 either directly or via server 110. User U2
may then preferably begin playing along with the performance of
user U1, preferably in substantially real-time, i.e. with very
little delay or with as little delay as possible. User U3 may
preferably receive the compilation, again either directly or via
server 110, and play along with the joint or compilation
performance of users U1 and U2, again preferably in substantially
real-time. Upon completion of each respective contribution of users
U1, U2, and U3, and more preferable upon completion of the
contribution from user U3 (or the last performer/contributor), the
finished ensemble is preferably routed through server 110,
whereupon users/audience members may listen, vote, rank, provide
feedback, and the like, as provided via the utilities described
supra.
[0103] That is, the users in the audience may preferably continue
chatting, and may preferably provide feedback, comment, discussion,
or the like relating to the performance of users U1, U2, and U3.
After a predetermined amount of time, such as thirty seconds of the
performance, users in the audience may rate the performance. Such
rating may be adjustable throughout the remainder of the
performance, and preferably for a limited time thereafter, whereby
users in the audience may reflect and consider the rating they give
to the performance, taking into account the ongoing discussion
(and/or rating) amongst the other users/audience members.
Preferably a log of all such discussion, whether by performers or
by audience members, is saved in a log and is accessible by the
performing users, at least for a period of time after the
performance is completed, whereby each performer may review the
comments and feedback provided during the performance, and
preferably for some time thereafter.
[0104] Such a live performance, given by a group or by an
individual, may preferably additionally be recorded on server 110
for subsequent access by the performer, by audience members, or by
any other user of system 100. Alternatively, a user, or group of
users, may decide to forego a live performance, such as when
scheduling a convenient time is difficult. In such a case, a first
user may preferably create a performance hall, again such as by
using "performance" website 700, go through the setup procedure,
and begin recording a performance. System 100 preferably stores
such recording, such as on server 110 for later access by other
users. If a band or group is creating the recording, the first
user's performance is preferably available for streaming download
by a second user, whereby the second user may preferably play along
with the recorded performance of the first user, thereby creating a
joint or ensemble performance. Such ensemble performance is
preferably likewise recorded and saved by system 100. A third user
may preferably access, playback, and play along with the recorded
ensemble performance, thereby creating a new recording with all
three users playing together. Additional users may continue to
playback and play along with the recordings until the performance
is complete. In one embodiment, the recording users may limit
access to the recorded performance such that only selected users
may access and add to the performance. Preferably, access is
automatically limited by a user's affiliation with a particular
group or band, such as in the user's profile. As such, only band
members may access, listen to, modify, or add to the performance.
Preferably, at any time the performance may be completed, thereby
removing the band member restriction on the performance.
[0105] System 100 may include additional features as will be
understood by those ordinarily skilled in the art. For example,
system 100 preferably further includes a mentor system, whereby
highly rated users, volunteer users, or the like may be listed, or
otherwise indicated, as mentors. Thus, a user may preferably
contact a mentor via email, chat, or the like to ask questions
about system 100, about music, or the like.
[0106] Preferably, a user may receive instruction, from a mentor or
any other user, in various ways. A user may receive instruction by
researching a selected topic using the encyclopedia, by reading the
webpages or discussion postings of other users. A user may
additionally create discussion postings asking a question whereby
other users may provide instructional responses. Similarly, users
may take advantage of chat rooms to pose questions, provide
answers, and generally discuss all aspects of the system and of
music. In one embodiment, special dedicated channels, chat rooms,
bulletin boards, or the like, are provided for questions and
answers, and may be topic specific, such as a chat room dedicated
to discussion of blues topics, or for questions about chord
progressions.
[0107] As will be understood by those ordinarily skilled in the art
after appreciation of the within disclosures, system 100 may be
implemented in formats other than a website with linked webpages,
such as in a locally stored computer program product, with central
storage of information in a database server accessible by each user
terminal to enable displays and other functions described
hereinabove. Furthermore, it will be understood that when formed as
a website, the webpages of system 100 may be linked in any manner
to, may include fewer, additional, or different links, lists,
filters, entry fields, buttons, banners, panes, bars, icons, or the
like to accomplish the functions described hereinabove. For
example, site maps, logout links, shopping carts, counters,
encryption, tiles, pop-up windows, click-through agreements, terms
of service, or the like may be incorporated in addition to or in
place of the above described elements to accomplish the functions
of system 100.
[0108] Similarly, the methods and subsystems described herein, such
as the ranking system and the reward system, among others, may
preferably be modified and/or omitted to suit the needs of users.
Specifically, different grading scales, rewards, or the like may be
used without departing from the scope of the invention.
[0109] It will further be understood by one ordinarily skilled in
the art that a system according to the present invention may be
used for creation, transmission, compilation, and/or distribution
of additional and/or alternative forms of data. For example, data
corresponding to simple speech, such as a sermon, a poetry recital,
a dissertation, or the like may be captured, transmitted, shared,
modified, and/or distributed using system 100, or a similar system.
Another example involves the capture, transmission, sharing,
modification, and/or distribution of video data, either along or in
connection with audio data.
[0110] Having thus described exemplary embodiments of the present
invention, it should be noted by those skilled in the art that the
within disclosures are exemplary only, and that various other
alternatives, adaptations, and modifications may be made within the
scope of the present invention. Merely listing or numbering the
steps of a method in a certain order does not constitute any
limitation on the order of the steps of that method. Many
modifications and other embodiments of the invention will come to
mind to one skilled in the art to which this invention pertains
having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing
descriptions and the associated drawings. Although specific terms
may be employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive
sense only and not for purposes of limitation. Accordingly, the
present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments
illustrated herein, but is limited only by the following
claims.
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