Don't Just Play it, Grow it! : Breeding Sound Synthesis and Performance Mappings

This paper describes the use of evolutionary and artificial life techniques in sound design and the development of performance mapping to facilitate the real-time manipulation of such sounds through some input device controlled by the performer. A concrete example of such a system is described which allows musicians without detailed knowledge and experience of sound synthesis techniques to interactively develop new sounds and performance manipulation mappings according to their own aesthetic judgements. Experiences with the system are discussed.