Computer modeling of AfricanAmerican oral tradition music: the example of Relative Patterns

Abstract

The article describes the creative process of the series of electroacoustic works Relative Patterns by composer Fredy Vallejos, taking as a starting point the notion of a model applied to musical composition, through computer tools (in particular computer-assisted composition and with electroacoustic means).  After a historical and conceptual introduction to the compositional writing used in the series, the elements necessary for a rhythmic formalization that serve as a basis for the structuring of the compositions will be detailed. This formalization is based mainly on the interpretation of models proposed by musicologist Shimha Arom for the analysis of Central African music, transcribed into the traditional and proportional notation system through the Open Music programming environment. Likewise, this article exposes the compositional elements of the Relative Patterns series that are not present in music of African origin, as well as the different forms of confrontation between traditional music and written or experimental music.