Ben Finn

Causation in music analysis and algorithmic composition (31/05/07)

Causation is fundamental to numerous aspects of the world, though little discussed in musical contexts. Many apparently disparate aspects of music can be unified and explained if they are seen as arising from causal relations between notes, harmonies, phrases, sections, and so on. As causation can be mathematically characterized, it also has considerable potential for generating music on computer (which will be demonstrated). Additionally, the underlying causal structure of music reveals deep connections with various other fields such as economics, physics, and psychology.

Department of Computing, Goldsmiths College, University of London, New Cross, London, SE14 6NW

Tel: +44 (0) 20 7919 7850 | Fax: +44 (0) 20 7919 7853 | Email: computing@gold.ac.uk