Evolutionary computation applied to algorithmic composition

This paper presents an end-user interface that allows real time parametric control of sound events. It is an interactive environment in which evolutionary computation is applied to algorithmic composition. This system uses genetic algorithms to generate and evaluate a sequence of chords played as MIDI data. Melodic, harmonic and voice range fitness are used to control musical features. Based on the ordering of consonance of musical intervals, the notion of approximating a sequence of notes to its harmonically compatible note or tonal center is used. This method employs a fuzzy formalism and is posed as an optimization approach based on factors relevant to hearing music.