Automatic for the people: Two pieces of crowd-driven music

Nash, Chris

Abstract

A video presenting excepts from two pieces of live generative works developed for BBC Music Day 2018, performed continuously throughout the day on the busy main platform of Bristol railway station. Both pieces are generated (and played) live using the Manhattan digital music environment, fed by object detection data from machine vision tracking the objects present and moving on the platform - people, trains, suitcases, and bicycles. The first piece adopts a minimalist piano and choir style, while the second pays homage to Bristol's trip hop musical legacy, each showcasing a variety of mapping techniques from chaos to music. As well as the music, the live, evolving visual notation was displayed on the platform, giving the 'audience' insight into the generative process, even in the absence of literacy.

• Exhibition Performance Type: Performance
• Start Date: May 10, 2021
• End Date: May 13, 2021
• Deposit Date: May 3, 2021
• Publicly Available Date: May 4, 2021
• Public URL: https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/7336900
• Additional Information: Originally intended as a new installation for Hamburg’s Elbphilharmonie, this performance was adapted for COVID-19 conditions and online delivery, using video from earlier work.