seed/decoupling

[ben nevile <bbn@xxxxxxxx>]

>> ...randomness in this case is derived from an input,
>
> but isnt that number in itself random?

yes, but the seed is an input to the instrument.  if you give the RNG 
the same seed the results it spits out are identical.  so given the 
same inputs the system is predictable.

> as for the decoupling of "the physical gestures of a performer and the 
> noise that is created"
> this is not a bad thing and I see no reason to make up for it with 
> more lame
> "gestural interfaces"...aren't the academic music technology 
> departments
> bulging with discarded/lame MIDI controllers/interfaces?

sure, many music departments are full of half-baked interface failures. 
  and I would never dream of trying to "make up" for the decoupling with 
another lame interface, I hope to *take advantage* of it using a 
non-lame interface!  no midi involved.

and you're right kim, the decoupling of physical gestures and noise is 
not a bad thing.  I enjoy that kind of relationship when I put a record 
on the turntable, or when I tune my radio.  and sometimes I enjoy it 
when attending a laptop show.  but when I'm making music I miss the 
type of mind-body connection that I developed through years of playing 
a physical instrument.  I miss being able to close my eyes while 
improvising music and having subtle tactile control over the dynamics 
and the timbral characteristics of the sound.  for me, playing music 
with a laptop today is like dancing with my feet in cement shoes.  it's 
like trying to have a conversation with someone but only being allowed 
to recite prepared sentences.  I want to talk freely.  is that a good 
enough reason?

bbn

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