Abstract

This article explores the possibility of using chaotic attractors to control sound processing with software instruments in live electroacoustic composition. The practice-led investigation involves the Attractors Library, a collection of Max/MSP externals based on iterative mathematical equations representing nonlinear dynamical systems; Attractors Player, a Max/MSP patch that controls the attractors’ performance and live processing; and the two compositions based on the software: Strange Attractions for flute, clarinet, horn, and live electronics, and Sabda Vidya No. 2 for flute, tenor saxophone, and live electronics. In the article I discuss some specific attractors’ characteristics and their use in interactive composition, relying on the experience from the performances of these two compositions. The idea is to highlight the experience with these nonlinear systems and to encourage other composers to use them in their own works.

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