A Model of Performance, Interaction, and Improvisation

A formal model of performance, interaction, and improvisation is described using mutually recursive processes. The recursion captures feedback, mutual recursion captures interaction between players (or larger entities), and the architecture of the recursive network captures hierarchies of interaction. With this model various classes of interaction can be categorized based on the internals of the engaged processes. These can range from simple articulations and embellishments to complex improvisations. The architecture also allows exploration of novel kinds of algorithmic composition. One of particular interest arises via application of game theory: engaged processes can be viewed as players in a game, where currency is manifested as aspects of musical aesthetics, and the rules relate to control of such aesthetics.