Medusoid
Author Identifier (ORCID)
Research Statement
Research Background
A work, Medusoid, was created, exploring a novel approach to realtime generation and distribution of music notation using the Decibel Scoreplayer's canvas mode on networked iPads. Algorithmic notational solutions for the indeterminate generation of 29 compositional textures/behaviours (Blocks gliding, Clouds, Rain, Waves, Clusters, etc) were developed, along with a means to permutatively choose their ordering, resulting in a work that varies with each performance (while maintaining the same textural “contents”). In performance the score, consisting of a simple scrolling proportional notation drawn in realtime in a different colour for each instrument, was distributed by wireless network to 8 iPads as a “full-score” and parts. Pitch was indicated by vertical distance from a line representing the mid-note of each instrument.
Research Contribution
This form of realtime generation and distribution of complex musical scores is at a nascent stage. Medusoid, although something a draft, is the first of its kind to attempt this particular solution. Although the premiere performance of the work occurred in a concert hall, the technology is also capable of distributing the score to any number of internet capable iPads in any locations. The actual score-file is only 2 KB (and therefore simple to distribute) the score is drawn in realtime by commands sent from a Laptop over the network making the approach optimal for telematic performance.
Research Significance
The work was developed for and workshopped at the by-invitation Digi-Score Notation Project at the Hochschule für Music und Theatre, Hamburg, Germany with members of Decibel and PhD students from Monash University. The project received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 101002086.
Non-Traditional Research Output
Original Creative Work
Document Type
Non-Traditional Research Output
Date of Publication
2022
Location of the Work
Hamburg
Publication Title
Digi-Score Notation Project
Publisher
Hochschule für Music und Theatre, Hamburg
School
Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts
RAS ID
58080
Event Dates
December 11, 2022
Duration
8 minutes
Comments
Vickery, L. (2022). Medusoid [audio recording]. Hochschule für Music und Theatre, Hamburg