GALiCA: A Gestural Approach to Live Coding Algorithms

Abstract

Live coding is an electronic music performance practice in which performers generate music and visuals in real time by writing code. The cognitive approach to live coding differs greatly from that of gestural music, in which performers leverage extensive embodied knowledge of their instrument. These two domains, which each provide unique tools for musical creativity and expressivity, are often performed separately.

This thesis considers the space between these two performance styles. The primary goal is to suggest the potential of a combined modality by considering techniques for gestural control over live code. A combination of live coding and gestural performance may allow for a new cognitive approach and entirely new ways to live code.

To explore this idea, this thesis introduces GALiCA, a live coding system that implements four techniques for manipulating code through gestural interaction with a MIDI controller. These techniques are facilitated by a flexible sequencer conceptualization that allows for easy modification. Additionally, to guide the analyses, this thesis synthesizes existing conceptual perspectives on the cognition involved in gestural performance and live coding. The promising results and analyses of these techniques may encourage further exploration into this new field and prompt new cognitive approaches to electronic music performance.