Compositional Methodology

The compositional methods and tools I draw on, applied by hand and with computational assistance.

I think of composition as a puzzle of sorts: a process of mining materials and parameters from a specific idea, program, or problem to realize a piece. Additionally, the simultaneous use of multiple compositional methodologies is a particular fascination—one that allows the same source material to be developed through recontextualization, as each method produces music with qualities depending on approach. Each compositional methodology is a possible path from a starting point mined from the idea of the piece. Finding the right path for the piece is the fun part!

Some composers use a piano to compose. I use a computer and my knowledge of compositional methodologies. These really function as collaborators in my work. While I make use of a computer, the goal is not automation, but the expansion of creative possibility through systematic investigation.

Here are some of the methods and tools I regularly use: