Hyperscore : a new approach to interactive, computer-generated music

Abstract

This thesis discusses the design and implementation of Hyperscore, a computer-assisted composition system intended for users of all musical backgrounds. Hyperscore presents a unique graphical interface which takes input in the form of freehand drawing. The strokes in the drawing are mapped to structural and gestural elements in the music, allowing the user to describe the large scale-structure of a piece visually. Hyperscore's graphical notation also enables the depiction of musical ideas on a detailed level. Additional annotations around a main curve indicate the placement and emphasis of selected motives. These motives are short melodic fragments that are either composed by the user or selected from a set of pre-composed material. Changing qualitative aspects of the annotations such as texture and shape let the user alter different musical parameters. The ultimate goal of Hyperscore is to provide an intuitive, interactive graphical environment for creating and editing compositions.