  In this paper, we present an ongoing research project related to popularizing
the mindset of building new digital musical instruments. We developed a
physical kit and software intended to provide beginner users with the first
grasp on the development process of a digital musical instrument. We expect
that, by using the kit and the software, the users could experiment in a short
period the various steps in developing a DMI such as physical structure,
electronics, programming, mapping, and sound design. Our approach to
popularizing the DMI development process is twofold: reducing the cognitive
load for beginners by encapsulating technical details and lowering the costs of
the kit by using simple components and open-source software. In the end, we
expect that by increasing the interest of beginners in the building process of
digital musical instruments, we could make the community of new interfaces for
musical expression stronger.
