Scoring Music Based on Genetic Algorithms

A recording of NC State composer Rodney Waschka’s trumpet concerto, Winter Concerto, has been released on the RMA label in London. The London Schubert Players (LSP) chamber orchestra recorded the work for a compact disc called “As You Like It.” The recording was supported by a grant from the European Union.

Waschka, professor of arts studies, composed the piece in the winter of 2009 with the help of a computer program he designed based on the concept of genetic algorithms. The work, scored for trumpet, piano and strings, is in three movements and makes use of the Romanian folk song, “Jiana.” Read more about the project in the NC State Bulletin.

Waschka, known for his computer music and his theatrical works, including two operas, is an internationally recognized expert in computer music. He wrote the chapter on composing with genetic algorithms for the book, Evolutionary Computer Music, published by Springer. Learn more about this creative faculty member’s work in film and music and hear an excerpt of the Winter Concerto.