A lighting display master controller responds to an electronic vibration signal produced by a sensor when an instrument is played, to selectively energize light sources of different colors in a predefined pattern. The master controller energizes specific light sources of a desired color by selecting a row and column within an array. In one embodiment, the light sources are on a flexible substrate disposed within an optically transparent plastic sheath that is attached to the instrument. The pattern applied in selectively energizing light sources can be stored or transmitted in real-time from a concert controller host or personal computer. The light system can also be used to enable a student to practice and record a sequence defined by an instructor. The lights that are energized provide visual cues to the student, and the recording that is made enables the instructor to evaluate the student's performance.