Course overview
This course examines of the link between human-computer interaction and the creative and technical practice of sound and music making. This course will develop a theoretical and practical understanding of computer music composition. Focus is placed on acquiring programming skills for implementation of compositional algorithms. Students will engage with a number of topics, including conceptual frameworks, contemporary practices and practitioners; complete readings and listening; and perform practical exercises that promote investigative learning and research. The course has the following learning objectives: facilitate new understandings and exploratory approaches in sonic arts practice; extend knowledge and develop new artistic and technical skills in human computer interaction and sound and music; and promote a learning process and reflexive skill set with regard to future practice, thus enabling students to adapt to the ever expanding and rapidly changing area of sonic arts and related areas of computer music.
Course learning outcomes
- Develop an awareness of the historical context in which computer-assisted composition evolved and its development to the present day.
- Explore creative methods using computers, leading to the creation of software and the composition of musical works.
- Develop an understanding of the underlying principles of computing and music viewed as formal systems.
- Develop an understanding of the various ways in which computers can assist in the process of musical composition.
- Enhance problem solving skills in the field of computer composition.
- Explore creative methods using computers, leading to the composition of musical works.