This week, the Detroit Symphony Orchestra had a very special conductor: Honda’s humanoid robot Asimo ( Advanced Step in Innovative Mobility).
Last Tuesday, the automaton opened the concert of the renowned North American cellist of Chinese origin, Yo-Yo Ma , generating great admiration among the attendees. The song performed by the Detroit Symphony Orchestra was titled Impossible Dream and, according to the musicians themselves, Asimo’s direction was impeccable. “The only thing missing is that we react to him, but he does not react to us,” said trombonist Randall Hawes.
Currently Asimo is able to run, climb stairs, carry objects, recognize people and voices, say hello, follow instructions, exchange simple phrases or lead an orchestra, among other skills.
