In this paper, we present Simone, a distributed musical instrument for collective improvisation created using a research through design approach. The collective interaction with Simone is performed through different interaction scenarios specifying how data is exchanged between users on the local network. First, we present the design and implementation of Simone including the audio synthesis system and the different scenarios. Then, we present a study with groups of expert users, asking them to improvise collectively with Simone to observe their appropriation of the instrument and how they interact collectively. Qualitative data analysis shows that the process of appropriation is a complex phenomenon that depends on participants' musical background and experience and is a preliminary condition for collaboration. Additionally, our results reveal participants' perception of networked elements and the influence it had on their collective interaction. Finally, we discuss the design of collective interaction and distributed music instruments.