Multisensory Interactive Music in Extended Reality: A Comprehensive Investigation
Abstract
This paper investigates the emerging field of multisensory interactive music within Extended Reality (XR), focusing on the convergence of spatialized audio, embodied interaction, reactive visuals, narrative coherence, as well as emotional resonance. While XR technologies have enabled unprecedented levels of immersion, current applications of music within these environments often isolate sensory modalities or prioritize technical novelty over integrated user experience. Through a cross-disciplinary analysis of recent research in human–computer interaction, music technology, as well as immersive media, this paper identifies key strategies as well as gaps in the design. In particular, the review highlights how engineering studies emphasize quantitative performance metrics, while psychology and musicology foreground affective response and cultural meaning, resulting in fragmented methodologies. Case studies from education, therapy, and cultural heritage further illustrate XR’s potential to transform music learning, rehabilitation, and preservation. By outlining technical challenges such as HRTF personalization, real-time rendering, and evaluation frameworks, the paper provides a roadmap for advancing inclusive and sustainable XR music systems.
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