GRADIENT NOISE Coming to ICMC 2026

Gradient Noise: Work in Progress with Dirtywave M8 and Processing.org
video upload by John C.S. Keston

https://audiocookbook.org/gradient-noise-at-icmc-2026/

"I'm pleased to announce that I will be performing the world premiere of my piece Gradient Noise at the International Computer Music Conference (ICMC) in Hamburg, Germany on May 11 at 9:30pm. The following video except represent the work in progress. The final piece will be 10 minutes long and contain up to four layers of instruments with independent, corresponding, video objects.

Since 2019 I have been composing animated graphic scores for ensembles and soloists. Examples include Parking Ramp Project, SYNTAX, and Rhodonea. These generative works are projected for both the performers to read and audience to experience. I write software to generate and animate the geometric forms, and establish rules on how the forms are read, whilst allowing improvisation and the emotional response of the performer to play an integral part in each piece.

Gradient Noise, written using the Processing.org language, translates values generated by the Perlin noise algorithm into independent layers of seamless loops repeating at variable intervals. These loops are visualised as geometric forms, abstract visualizations, and evolving structures. The data generated is aleatoric, but the values can be tuned to range between slowly moving gradients or rapid, angular forms. When the sound and visuals are synchronized I respond not only to the animation but also to the changes in the timbre of my instruments.

Through Gradient Noise I am rethinking the relationships between musicians and machines. By translating the properties of n-dimensional Perlin noise into a musical language, the piece presents a unified ecosystem with coordinated timbres and geometric forms. Thus generating a living environment that requires active participation and improvisation. Ultimately, the work presents a contemporary model for computer music where the performer does not simply follow a score, but negotiates a path through a responsive, multi-sensory experience.

More on AudioCookbook.org:
https://audiocookbook.org/gradient-no...

ICMC Official Conference Website:
https://icmc2026.ligeti-zentrum.de

Audio in this video entire produced using the Dirtywave M8 tracker:
https://dirtywave.com/"