An Open Source Interface based on Biological Neural Networks for Interactive Music Performance

ERNESTO RIERA, PABLO; KERLLENEVICH, HERNAN; CAMILO EGUIA, MANUEL

Oslo

Congreso; International Conference on New Interfaces for Musical Expression; 2011

University of Oslo and Norwegian Academy of Music

We propose and discuss an open source real-time interface that focuses in the vast potential for interactive sound art creation emerging from biological neural networks, as paradigmatic complex systems for musical exploration. In particular, we focus on networks that are responsible for the generation of rhythmic patterns.The interface relies upon the idea of relating metaphorically neural behaviors to electronic and acoustic instruments notes, by means of flexible mapping strategies. The user can intuitively design network configurations by dynamically creating neurons and configuring their inter-connectivity. The core of the system is based in events emerging from his network design, which functions in a similar way to what happens in real small neural networks. Having multiple signal and data inputs and outputs, as well as standard communications protocols such as MIDI, OSC and TCP/IP, it becomes and unique tool for composers and performers, suitable for different performance scenarios, like live electronics, sound installations and telematic concerts.