Keith McMillen

Keith McMillen was a pioneering innovator in audio and music technology who recently passed away in 2024 at the age of 67.12 Born on July 10, 1957, in Bermuda, McMillen dedicated his life to revolutionizing interactive music performance and technology.3

Career Highlights

McMillen's professional journey was marked by several significant achievements:

• In 1979, he founded Zeta Music, which became known for modernizing the violin through electronic instrument designs.3
• As Vice President at Gibson Guitars in 1992, he established G-WIZ, an R&D lab where he developed ZIPI, a musical instrument control language that influenced later protocols like OSC, MPE, and MIDI 2.0.3
• In 2005, he founded Keith McMillen Instruments (KMI), introducing innovative products using patented Smart Fabric sensors, such as the K-Bow, QuNeo, QuNexus, and K-Board Pro.3
• In 2014, he founded BeBop Sensors to expand Smart Fabric applications into wearable sensors and haptics.3
• Most recently, he was the Founder CEO of Sensible Robotics, focusing on developing robotic skin using Smart Fabric technology.35

Education and Expertise

McMillen held a BS in Acoustics from the University of Illinois, where he studied under James Beauchamp. He also honed his skills in classical guitar and composition under notable mentors.3

Legacy

Keith McMillen was renowned as an inventor, entrepreneur, musician, and technology innovator.4 His work consistently pushed the boundaries of music technology, particularly in the areas of computer intelligence and user interface for musical performance.3 Although he has passed away, his innovations and achievements continue to inspire and shape the future of music and technology.3