Gary Lee Nelson
Friday May 18, 7pm ­ 8 pm
http://www.timara.oberlin.edu/GaryLeeNelson.
Oberlin College, USA

Sonomorphs: An Application of Genetic Algorithms To the Growth and Development of Musical Organisms

In this paper I will discuss genetic algorithms and their application to musical composition. Genetic algorithms came from the field of biology but they can be used to model any system that is characterized by growth, development, mutation and transformation. I will outline the fundamental techniques for genetic algorithms. I will explain my musical methods through a series of graphic and sonic illustrations and an interactive computer program written in MAX.

Biography

Gary Lee Nelson is chair of Technology in Music and Related Arts (TIMARA) at Oberlin College. He has appeared as composer, performer and teacher throughout North America, Europe, Asia and Australia. His compoitions are recorded on Opus One and Wergo. He has received grants from the Shansi Foundation, the Sloane Foundation, Ohio Arts Council and the National Science Foundation for his research in algorithmic composition. He is a pioneer in the use of mathematical models for creating musical structure. His recent work has centered on techniques for interactive composition and improvisation with computers, sound synthesizers and video. On March 21, 2001 he will present a concert of new work in Oberlin along with painter and video artist, Christine Gorbach.