HyperScore

Hyperscore is an application introducing children and non-musicians to musical composition and creativity in an intuitive and dynamic way. The "narrative" of a composition is expressed as a line-gesture. The texture and shape of this line are analyzed to derive a pattern of tension-release, simplicity-complexity, and variable harmonization. The child creates or selects individual musical fragments in the form of chords or melodic motives, and layers them onto the narrative-line with expressive brushstokes. The texture and shape of each mark on the canvas is interpreted as direction for transformation and embellishments of the musical material. The Hyperscore system automatically realizes a full composition from a graphical representation, allowing individuals with no musical training to create professional pieces. Currently, HyperScore uses a mouse-based interface; the final version will support freehand drawing, and integration with the Music Shapers and Beatbugs to provide a rich array of tactile tools for manipulation of the graphical score. Hyperscore will be a central element in workshops and live performances for the Toy Symphony project.