This resource is designed for composers who are interested in exploring and creatively exploiting mathematical ideas in their music. It provides information on some potentially relevant mathematical algorithms and concepts, with a few thoughts on their musical possibilities. The list of algorithms covered can be found below, and may grow over time.
Arithmetic procedures: Least common multiple and canonical forms
Combinatorial algorithms
Geometrical methods
Iterated maps: self-similarity and fractals
Music and image
Probabilistic ideas: dice games
Recursivity
Symbols and codes
Syracuse conjecture
This material was first developed as a result of CNM’s New Structures in Composition project in 2017. We thank Prof. Pablo Padilla (UNAM) for kindly allowing us to use his algorithm descriptions.
