tx th nxthng . ivan belousov
project: "well tempered synth"
author: Ivan Belousov
generative music instrument
technique: programming, performance
tags: interactive music interface, generative music, visual programming
performance: student showcase
curator and technical consultant: Sergey Kostyrkо
author: Ivan Belousov
generative music instrument
technique: programming, performance
tags: interactive music interface, generative music, visual programming
performance: student showcase
curator and technical consultant: Sergey Kostyrkо
"well tempered synth" is a digital two-voice musical synthesizer that creates melodies based on a random number generator.
The name of the project refers to J.S. Bach's "The Well-Tempered Clavier", in which he demonstrates the flexibility of the new tuning system that allowed compositions to be written in all keys. The synthesizer reinterprets the concepts of the European classical school of composition within the framework of algorithmic art. Using various approaches in rhythmic and harmonic quantization, the synthesizer can create quite meaningful melodic constructions from the generated noise of random numbers.
The name of the project refers to J.S. Bach's "The Well-Tempered Clavier", in which he demonstrates the flexibility of the new tuning system that allowed compositions to be written in all keys. The synthesizer reinterprets the concepts of the European classical school of composition within the framework of algorithmic art. Using various approaches in rhythmic and harmonic quantization, the synthesizer can create quite meaningful melodic constructions from the generated noise of random numbers.
straight-beat version
“well-tempered synth” includes a quantizer for selecting a major or minor scale, a note quantizer (A = 440 Hz), a sequencer capable of generating melodies with any number of notes, and a rhythmic quantizer that creates rhythmic patterns based on the notes: consonant notes are extended, while dissonant ones are shortened. The synthesizer also includes key selection, as well as adjustable parameters for note attack and release duration. Rhythmic structure can be modified by adding or removing short and long notes. During melody generation, sliders define the frequency range. The system features drum synchronization and BPM configuration for the composition. Note durations can be fine-tuned within the selected tempo, and timbre is shaped through waveform selection.
Three versions of the synthesizer were developed in Max MSP as part of the project: one for generating melodies with a straight rhythm, one with a broken (irregular) rhythm, and a version designed for audiovisual performance, in which sound parameters are linked to the parameters of a generative visual image.
Thus, “well-tempered synth” becomes a flexible tool for improvising with other musicians playing different instruments, which takes algorithmic music to a new level and allows us to rethink the joint creativity of humans and machines.
Three versions of the synthesizer were developed in Max MSP as part of the project: one for generating melodies with a straight rhythm, one with a broken (irregular) rhythm, and a version designed for audiovisual performance, in which sound parameters are linked to the parameters of a generative visual image.
Thus, “well-tempered synth” becomes a flexible tool for improvising with other musicians playing different instruments, which takes algorithmic music to a new level and allows us to rethink the joint creativity of humans and machines.
