Knowledge base
How Can an Envelope Generator Modulate an LFO in a Modular Synthesizer?
Using Envelopes to Modulate LFOs in Modular SynthesisOne of the simplest ways to create more sophisticated control voltages is combining an envelope generator with a low-frequency oscillator. A particularly useful… read more
How Much Randomness Should a Generative Music System Contain?
Mixing Stable and Random Elements in Generative CompositionOne of the central challenges of generative music is balancing predictability and surprise.
Too much stability becomes repetitive.
Too much randomness… read more
How Do You Create Tempo Jumps and Melody Inversions in Modular Systems?
Changing BPM and Inverting Melodies in Generative MusicTwo simple techniques can dramatically alter musical perception: tempo changes and melodic inversion.
Jumping Between BPM ValuesTempo does not need to change… read more
How Can Random Voltages Be Controlled Without Losing Their Character?
Sculpting Randomness and Setting Limits in Modular SynthesisRandomness becomes most useful when it operates inside meaningful boundaries.
The goal is rarely maximum chaos.
The goal is controlled… read more
How Can Entire Parts of a Modular Patch Be Switched Automatically?
Switching Voices and Patch Sections in Generative MusicGenerative composition often benefits from structural changes.
One effective method is switching voices or entire patch sections on and off.
Voice Switching… read moreHow Do Additional Layers Increase Tension in Generative Music?
Building Tension Through Musical LayersOne of the most reliable methods for increasing tension is adding layers.
The listener perceives growing complexity as increasing energy.
Types of LayersLayers may include:
… read moreCan Rhythm Be Created Without Traditional Percussion?
Replacing Drums with Glitches, Wooshes and Melodic ElementsRhythm is often associated with drums.
Generative composition encourages a broader perspective.
Rhythm Is TimingA rhythm exists whenever sonic events occur in time.… read more
How Do You Morph Between Different Rhythms Without Changing the Melody?
Crossfading Between Rhythms in Generative MusicGenerative rhythm does not always require creating new patterns. Sometimes the most effective strategy is gradually moving between existing rhythms.
Switching Versus… read moreHow Can Pitch Control Other Musical Parameters in Generative Music?
Using Pitch Dependency in Generative MusicMost modular patches treat pitch as an isolated parameter. A note is generated, and other aspects of the sound behave independently. Generative composition offers another… read more
Why Does Generative Music Need Stable Elements?
Stable Elements: Giving Listeners Orientation in Generative MusicGenerative music often contains a huge number of small changes.
Without points of stability, listeners can easily lose their sense of orientation.
The Lighthouse… read more