Together Un/Tethered

A series of immersive performances as part of the Arts for the Blues: Creating Connections research project, for which I developed the generative audiovisual framework in Max/MSP/Jitter/Gen/RNBO. The novelty of this work lies in the application of second-order Markov chains for sequencing synthesiser bass notes inside codebox in RNBO, the compiled code from which was embedded and run via a Raspberry Pi.

The implementation of second-order Markov chains, which derive the result of the current calculation according to the outcome of the two previous calculations and therefore strike a pleasing balance between originality and predictability in melodic generation, resulted in the recurrence and evolution of recognisable motifs throughout every performance, but which were unique to individual performances due the randomised nature of the original source melody from which the transition matrix was compiled. This balance of novelty and familiarity in each rendition of Together Un/Tethered enhanced the overall aesthetic through the musical manifestation of key themes, including mirroring, parallels, polarisation, and branches/pathways, while imbuing every performance with a uniquely immersive audience experience.

Other elements of the soundscape includes a stochastic granular synthesis engine utilising various harmonica recordings performed by an Arts for the Blues workshop participant, alongside recordings of deep breathing, running water, and birdsong to tie in with themes of nature, growth, mediation, etc., that were explored during workshops.

The visuals were generated using Jitter in Max and are broken down into four distinct movements to align with the immersive performance choreography/score, again drawing on themes of nature and growth as well as symmetry, mirroring, and pathways. These themes manifest through the manipulation and tessellation of images of tree canopies and the overarching kinesis of a particle system comprising discrete particles that move between random, disconnected movement and synchronised convergence into spiralling geometries.

Performance venues and dates:
Liverpool Lighthouse - 03/06/23;
Arts for the Wellbeing of All: New Horizons in Research event at Edge Hill University - 4 performances from 20-21/06/23;
University of Salford - 03/07/23;
Derby Theatre (University of Derby) - 18/07/23;
Liverpool Lighthouse - 10/10/23.

Knowledge exchange and impact:
My work in developing the soundscape for the immersive performances, inclusive of the novel application of second order Markov chains for sequencing synthesiser notes inside codebox in RNBO, which was run via a Raspberry Pi, was presented at Cycling '74 Office Hours on 08/09/23 and has also been shared by Cycling '74 through their social media channels (links included below).