In this research I investigated the process of composing music starting from pre-recorded samples as a source of inspiration. I explored different approaches and consulted several experts, among which JacobTV, Vaague and Chassol.
The whole work can be divided into three steps:
In the first cycle I started trying to translate into pitches the samples I had: the result is a very rhythmic musical idea, quite connected and ‘locked’ with the sample but lacking some freedom.
In the second cycle I explored the completely opposite direction: I used the pre-recorded audio material in the background of the piece, creating a sort of soundscape, a ‘cloud of sounds’, less central for the audience but still essential in the composition process. I also experimented with ‘floating pulse’ and isorhythm technique.
In the last cycle I tried to blend the two previous approaches, searching for a balance in between the two.
In general, apart from the artistic exploration and outcomes, I also experimented a lot with technical tools and programming techniques I didn’t know or didn’t have before, like Max patches, Ableton midi mapping, drums triggers, multipad.
I came up with three different outcomes, each one focused on one of the three main approaches (rhythmical, ‘floating’ and a mix of the two), involving different kinds of samples and different line-ups (from the drums solo to the quintet). In addition to that, a lot of small experiments have been carried out.