The algorithmic music compositions on this page are written in Java and use the Jsyn software engine. The Jsyn engine was created by Phil Burk and a Jsyn plug-in for your browser can be obtained for free at www.softsynth.com
In addition to the music on this site I have some graphical Java programs that show how randomness, and algorithms with random input, can be used to create visual art. The graphic programs do not need the Jsyn plugin. They can be seen here.
I live in Los Angeles, CA where I work as a sound engineer and can be reached at johnclavin at my domain name. For my autobiography click here.
For my Blog click here.
SR1r3 is a four instrument combo with percussion, bass, piano, and solo instrument. Each instrument has it's own algorithm, but in this composition the algo players are not musically connected. I need to teach them how to watch and listen to each other.
Arpegg3 starts out by composing 2 measures of chords. It makes the random decision of how many chords per measure there should be and then randomly selects from 12 chords. The 12 chords are the chords naturally found in the key of C with a few extra chords thrown in. Then it composes an arpeggio type of melody that uses the chord notes root, third, fifth, seventh, and sometimes ninth. The melody starts at a random place and then randomly goes up or down. If it reaches the upper or lower limit it reverses direction. The two measures are played and then repeated with a variation in the arpeggio melody. The bass part is created from the root and fifth of each chord except when there is only one chord per measure and then it does a walking bass style. When listening, because it repeats over and over, it is hard to identify the pairs of theme and variation measures, but if you listen for the number of chords per measure that stay the same for each theme and variation pair you can hear it.
Ramona Albert, the algorithmic piano player, taps his foot and plays on endlessly, hoping that one day his Markov chain and melody algorithm will create the most beautiful song, and express his sorrow.
For more information about Ramona click here.
Machine #12 is a work in progress.
Albert's Theme is a composition that uses the form of "Ramona" but with a different chord progression algorithm and a different melody algorithm. Sept 2006.