Music Theory - Genetic Algorithms and Python
Explore the intersection of music theory, genetic algorithms, and Python programming in this 55-minute EuroPython Conference talk. Delve into the world of counterpoint, inspired by J.S. Bach's genius, and learn about Johann Joseph Fux's "Gradus ad Parnassum" approach to composition. Discover how to apply genetic algorithms to generate computer-generated counterpoint, addressing challenges such as the vast number of potential results and the need for timely, acceptable solutions. Examine the "Wordolution" example to understand the principles of genetic algorithms, and then dive into the practical application of these concepts in music composition. Investigate various species of counterpoint, from first to fifth, and learn how to encode music, create fitness functions, and implement simple commands for generating musical pieces. This talk bridges the gap between classical music theory and modern computational techniques, offering a unique perspective on algorithmic composition.