Composing with algorithms: two novel generative composition tools

  • Authors:
  • Iain Foxwell;Don Knox

  • Affiliations:
  • Glasgow Caledonian University, UK;Glasgow Caledonian University, UK

  • Venue:
  • Proceedings of the 7th Audio Mostly Conference: A Conference on Interaction with Sound
  • Year:
  • 2012

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Abstract

Most composers may at some point struggle with the creative process. Breaking free from writer's block and the composer's own limitations can be achieved through the use of algorithmic approaches to music creation. This project is aimed at development of two algorithmic compositional tools, which can be used within the Digital Audio Workstation Ableton with Max for Live software. The first employs 2nd order Markov chains to aid composers in creation of unique midi melodies. The second approach uses Cellular Automata to select loop points in digital audio files, shuffling audio segments in time to create new patterns. Results suggest these systems have the potential to inspire composers, allow them to augment their compositions, and in turn help them overcome creative problems.