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How can a single arpeggio generate multiple random harmonies in a modular synthesizer?

Creating Random Chords from a Single Arpeggio Source

One of the most fascinating ways to generate harmony is starting with a single melodic source and allowing several voices to derive different notes… read more

How do you create random melodies over stable chord progressions in modular synthesis?

Combining Stable Chord Changes with Random Melodies

A powerful compositional strategy is combining predictable harmonic movement with unpredictable melodic development.

Instead of making everything… read more

How can a sequential switch create random harmonic progressions in a modular synthesizer patch?

Random Harmonic Progressions Using Sequential Switches

One of the most effective ways to introduce harmonic movement into a generative composition is to switch between several pre-defined… read more

How Do Bernoulli Gate Networks Create Structured Randomness?

Using Bernoulli Gate Networks in Generative Music

Bernoulli gates are among the most useful probability tools in modular synthesis.

A network of Bernoulli gates can generate surprisingly structured randomness.

Series… read more

How Can Noise and Sample & Hold Modules Create Complex Generative Patches?

Building Noise-Based Randomness Systems in Modular Synthesis

Noise is one of the most powerful sources of randomness in modular synthesis.

When combined with multiple Sample & Hold modules, it becomes… read more

How Does Sample & Hold Feedback Change an LFO's Behaviour?

LFO and Sample & Hold Feedback Networks

A simple feedback connection can transform a predictable LFO into an evolving timing source.

The Structure

An LFO triggers a Sample & Hold module.

The Sample & Hold… read more

What Happens When One Sample & Hold Module Triggers Another?

The Inheritance of Randomness: Cascading Sample & Hold Modules

Randomness can be passed from one module to another.

This creates a hierarchy of random behaviour.

The Principle

One Sample & Hold module… read more

How Can Looping Envelopes Generate Random Rhythms in Modular Synthesis?

Creating Random Timing with Looping Envelopes and Sample & Hold Feedback

One fascinating way to generate randomness is allowing a Sample & Hold module to influence the timing of the process that created it.… read more

What Are Different Ways to Create Randomness in Modular Generative Music?

Five Faces of Randomness in Generative Music

Randomness is one of the defining characteristics of generative music. However, not all randomness behaves the same way.

A random process can influence:

… read more

How Can Envelope Generators Become Cyclic Modulation Sources?

Creating Self-Running Envelope Feedback Loops

A pair of envelope generators can become a continuously running modulation system by introducing feedback.

From Chain to Loop

In an envelope chain, one envelope triggers the next… read more