Musical composition and two-dimensional cellular automata based on music intervals

Abstract

This paper uses a theoretical approach to explore the applicability of a two-dimensional cellular automaton based on melodic and harmonic intervals in random arrays of musical notes. Our aim is to explore alternative uses for a cellular automaton in the musical context for better understanding musical creativity. We use the complex systems and humanities approaches as a framework for capturing the essence of creating music based on rules of music theory. Findings suggest that such rules matter for generating large-scale patterns of organized notes. Therefore, our formulation provides a novel approach for understanding and replicating aspects of musical creativity.