Developing a Style Modelling System for Creative Generative Music Improvisation

This dissertation describes an exploratory style modelling application intended to simulate a guitar player's style and replicate it with some degree of creativity and originality. This was achieved using a combination of a stochastic technique (Markov Chains) and a biochemical restructuring process (Autocatalytic Set Theory). The key objective was to see if natural restructuring processes could enhance traditional stochastic style modelling techniques in order to promote creative improvisation in computer generated music. In short, the program generates improvised solos in the guitar player's style and adds an element of originality. Previous studies into style modelling and generative music are discussed in the literature review. Based on the arguments put forward, ideas for a program simulation are suggested. Next, there is a description of the program developed in Java to implement these ideas. Various tests are conducted and the results analyzed. Finally, a discussion follows to provide a theoretical insight into the evaluation of the success of the model. 2 The tests conducted yielded mostly positive results, suggesting that the model has a sound theoretical foundation and has the potential for further development and expansion. Finally, conclusions are drawn about the reasons for the success of the model and the techniques used. It is recommended that future studies should be carried out to expand on the ideas presented here and develop the model further. Please note that a basic knowledge of music theory and terminology is required in order to fully understand some of the content of this dissertation. However, this is not essential. This dissertation comes with a CD containing the program, its technical documentation, a user manual, test data and output samples.