Computer-Aided Algorithmic Composition

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Computer-Aided Algorithmic Composition (CAAC, pronounced "sea-ack") is the implementation and use of algorithmic composition techniques in software. This label is derived from the combination of two labels, each too vague for continued use. The label "computer-aided composition" lacks the specificity of using generative algorithms. Music produced with notation or sequencing software could easily be considered computer-aided composition. The label "algorithmic composition" is likewise too broad, particularly in that it does not specify the use of a computer. The term computer-aided, rather than computer-assisted, is used in the same manner as Computer-Aided Design

The following diagram illustrates the position of CAAC in relation to other Generative music Systems:

[edit] See also

CAAC is one of many overlapping categories of software systems for generating music.

• Computer-assisted composition
• Evolutionary music
• Generative music
• Interactive music
• sound synthesis

[edit] References

• Ariza, C. 2005. "Navigating the Landscape of Computer-Aided Algorithmic Composition Systems: A Definition, Seven Descriptors, and a Lexicon of Systems and Research." In Proceedings of the International Computer Music Conference. San Francisco: International Computer Music Association. 765-772. Internet: http://www.flexatone.net/docs/nlcaacs.pdf

• Ariza, C. 2005. An Open Design for Computer-Aided Algorithmic Music Composition: athenaCL. Ph.D. Dissertation, New York University. Internet: http://www.dissertation.com/book.php?method=ISBN&book=1581122926

• Berg, P. 1996. "Abstracting the future: The Search for Musical Constructs" Computer Music Journal 20(3): 24-27.

• Supper, M. 2001. "A Few Remarks on Algorithmic Composition." Computer Music Journal 25(1): 48-53.

[edit] External links

• AC Toolbox - A programming environment for algorithmic composition.
• algorithmic.net - A lexicon of systems and research in computer aided algorithmic composition* Virtual MIDI Machine - VMM is a c-like multithreading language that allows a composer to write low-level MIDI algorithms.
• Impromptu - A programming environment for algorithmic composition.
• Computer Aided Composition - Theoretical article by Karlheinz Essl (1991).