Robot Pianist on YouTube

Take a look at this robot pianist designed for use in "affective interaction of the elderly" (why not use human pianists?). Conditioned as we are to hear biologically viable pianists of the human variety, here are some points I couldn't help but observe in the robot's playing:

• Erect posture but with complete rigidity of the torso and upper body, which could me symptomatic of tension issues.
• Excellent independence of the fingers, but a relaxed wrist and introduction of arm weight could create greater tonal variety.
• Stable rhythmic pulse, but more attention is needed in matters of phrasing and balance.

(Via WTB)

Here's another notable non-human pianist: Piano Kitty!