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An aesthetic comparison of rule-based and genetic algorithms for generating melodies

Brown, Andrew R. (2004) An aesthetic comparison of rule-based and genetic algorithms for generating melodies. Organised Sound 9(2):pp. 191-198.

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Abstract

Various algorithmic techniques are available for generating music, many of which come from the field of artificial intelligence, which is rich with potential in this regard. However, the musical appropriateness of these techniques is less clearly understood. In this paper, I will report on a study that aimed to describe the characteristics of two of these techniques, rule-based and genetic algorithms, as they apply to melody generation. The appropriateness of these characteristics in contributing to well-formed melodies was judged by aesthetic criteria. The results indicate that most combinations of rules, mutations and evolutionary selection result in poor or average melodies, but that careful combination of these techniques can generate melodiesthat are not simply well-formed but in many cases display some elegance and novelty.

Item Type:Journal Article
Status:Published
Keywords:algorithm sound computer melody
Subjects:410000 The Arts > 410100 Performing Arts > 410101 Music
ID Code:6183
Deposited By:Gibbons, Craig
Deposited On:09 March 2007
Alternative Locations:http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/S1355771804000275
Copyright Owner:Copyright 2004 Cambridge University Press
Copyright Statement:Reproduced in accordance with the copyright policy of the publisher.