ORDERED CHAOS Randomisation, probability and generative music
A reliance on chance when it comes to music making can, arguably, clash with the image we create for ourselves as musicians. Whether we’re talking about writing, sound design or mixing, musicians tend to think of themselves – not without justification – as craftspeople, meticulously considering every last element of their creation and how it contributes to the overall vision. Admitting that some of that process was left up to chance would, surely, run contrary to that?
Whether we acknowledge it or not though, for many of us an element of unpredictability is inherent to the creative process. Sure, there are some musicians who begin with a fully-formed track in their head and know how to execute it perfectly, but for the majority of us inspiration is often a case of trial and error; whether it comes from stumbling upon the perfect hook through aimless noodling or jamming, creating a
