2.3. HarmonyQuake: Algorithmic Harmonic Recombination

2.3.1. Documentation

This tool facilitates the algorithmic generation of harmonic sequences using a collection of rhythms and chords. The interface permits the creation of Part A, a harmonic sequence that is based on chords defined in Sections B through I. Part A may consist of up to sixteen rhythms generated with algorithmic selectors. Sections B through I, if active, define a chord, chord rotation, octave spacing, and multiplier. The Section multiplier increases the number of instances available for selection of the defined chord. Part A selects chords defined in Sections B through I using the chord algorithmic selector.

The rhythm sequence of each Texture is composed with a vertical column of pop-up menus. Rhythms are configured as a sequence of pulse triples. A pulse triple, occupying each row of pop-up menus, permits the selection of a divisor (division of the BPM-specified tempo), a multiplier (scalar of the divided pulse), and an accent.

Accent values are notated as dynamic markings (loudness measures): the range (pp, p, mp, mf, f, ff), from soft to loud, is provided. An off symbol (o) designates a rest (measured silence). An on symbol (+) designates a maximum value.

Sequences can employ different algorithmic selectors. Algorithmic selectors may choose values from the specified sequence length based on the specified procedure. Procedures include orderedCyclic (in-sequence loops), orderedOscillate (in sequence back and forth loops), randomChoice (equal-distribution random selection), randomPermutate (random re-orderings of the entire sequence), and randomWalk (random movements in single steps up or down the sequence lengths).

The sequence length (labeled "rhythm length" and/or "tune length") determines how many of the vertical column of pop-up menu items are used and selected. This setting determines which rhythms or pitches are used, regardless of how they are specifically configured.

2.3.2. Interface Components

This tool employs the following interface components: Accent Selector (Section 3.1), Beats Per Minute Input (Section 3.2), Chord Selector (Section 3.3), Octave Spacing (Section 3.6), On/Off Switch (Section 3.7), Output Duration Selector (Section 3.8), Output Format Selector (Section 3.9), Pitch Selector (Section 3.10), Pulse Triple Selector (Section 3.11), and Algorithmic Selector (Section 3.12)