Arduino tone library and bitmask generate virtual keyboard, mapping strip voltage input to appropriate tone output. ADSR envelopes in real-time via an SPI digital pot (single 8 pin DIP from MCP). Uses the venerable LM386 amp for that down-home feel.
Single-voice strip driven musical touch synthesizer
I'm thinking of popping one of these kits into a case with a sonar (analog output) as an actuator: the Clazooemin? Possibly an OLED or TFT touch screen if I can implement without losing the tone() timer on the onboard pro mini. TFT would be great for touch-driven data entry as well.