Suff:Style

 · Suff Home  · Style Research  · Functional Requirements  · Algorithm  · Patches  ·

---

This discussion is mostly out dated as I've decided that style doesn't matter so much. Computer generated music in a specified style has already been done, and it's been done damned well - with tons of AI. Instead, I will design an algorithm that will force the software to generate "musical" sound in no particular style. I will use the last several notes (2-5, possibly a random amount) played as a base for a probability table to allow the song to slowly change keys. I may also track a specified chord progression to help select notes.

Before an algorithm can be created to compose a song, the desired style must be studied and thoughroughly understood. The chosen style is Rock and Roll. This style features simple and promenant rhythms, few simultaneous instruments, and simple music theory. Its simplicity makes it a great starting point for algorithm creation. There are many sub-genres of rock and roll. This fact will be ignored for the time being to simplify the functional requirements and broaden the musical possibilities. It is entirely possible that the algorithmically composed rock and roll will be part of a completely new genre, or may not even sound anything like the intended style. The point here is to have a set of defined rules to make up some sort of music.

Instrumentation

Typical instruments:

• Guitar - as lead or playing chord progression
• Drum - carrying a strong, slightly varying beat througout song
• Bass Guitar - following chord progressions, complementing lead melody
• Keyboard/Organ - as lead or chord progression backup
• "Hard Rock" utilizes distortion of instruments

Influences

• Blues
  • Instrumentation
  • Artists

Musical Style Characteristics

• 12-Bar Blues - this would be a great structured starting point.

I	I or IV	I	I
IV	IV	I	I
V	IV	I	I or V

• Symetrical 4,8, or 16 bar phrases
• Constant sense of meter from drums, bass, rhythm guitar
• Rhythm of leading melody opposes the meter ("funky" sound)
• Solo section - uses mainly pentatonic scale tones
• No formal pattern - Musical interludes separate A,B,C,... parts
• Uncomplicated rhythm base - usually 4/4 or 3/4

Books to see

• Art of Rock and Roll
• Rolling stone encyclopedia of rock & roll
• age of rock, sounds of the American cultural revolution (probably history)
• deep with Jimi Hendrix : a complete exploration of his innovative guitar style