VIBRATIONS Prototype

The installation VIBRATIONS generates sine waves with physical robotic instruments. A generative composition algorithm (AI) creates contemplative spatial soundscapes, based on patterns derived from compositions of minimal music likethat ofTerry Riley or John Adam.

The sound of the instrument is generated by tuned aluminum bars. Controlled by a complex distributed robotic actuator system, the multifaceted sound ranges from spherical, sombrechords to glassy, highly concise melodies.

The sound in this work is not played by humans but by 36 small robotic actuators. The robotic actuators are triggered by a computer running an AI/ML algorithm forming three octaves (36 tones). The robot mechanics introduce slight variations in sound and rhythm creating an organic contrast to the calculated computer-generated sounds. The robots are nevertheless precise enough to play repetitive structures that no human could ever reproduce. This combination aims to create a new organic and mechanical form of sound: robotic electronic music.

Due to a global chip shortage as a side effect of the pandemic, the installation is currently a work in progress and will be presented as such.

This work was realised within the framework of the European Media Art Platforms (EMAP) programme at Ars Electronica (AT) with support of the Creative Europe Culture Programme of the European Union.