Jonathan Snead

Instrumentation: generative electronics (PureData)
Duration: varies
Year: 2020

Program Note:
Generative Gamelan creates a unique and varied sound world each time it is triggered by procedurally designing and playing an ensemble of virtual instruments. Every ensemble consists of two to eight virtual instruments, each containing a specific number of keys (like a virtual metallophone). Each ensemble is governed by a unique tuning system: a harmonic interval is divided into a certain number of equal divisions, then a number of these “half steps” is randomly omitted, generating a unique microtonal gamut from which the virtual instruments choose their pitches. The timbre and envelope of each virtual instrument are also procedurally generated, using additive and subtractive synthesis and amplitude modulation to produce a variety of timbres. Additionally, the additive synthesizer uses the fundamental interval of the ensemble’s gamut to generate an “alternative harmonic series.” Each ensemble generated will feature unique combinations of timbre, register, and rhythm, allowing for a wide variety of experiences. The presented recording is an un-edited exploration of eight different sound worlds exactly as Generative Gamelan created and ordered them.