Composing music with bio-technology: an intelligent algorithmic composition system using Physarum polycephalum-based memristors

Abstract

Computer-assisted and automated composition systems often harness Artificial Intelligence models such as Markov chains, Neural Networks, and Genetic Algorithms to generate musical material. The field of Unconventional Computing (UC) explores non-digital ways of data storage, processing, input, and output. UC paradigms such as Biocomputing and Quantum Computing delve into domains beyond the binary bit to handle complex nonlinear functions. In this chapter, we explore harnessing the biological computing substrate Physarum polycephalum as a memristor to process and generate musical material within an algorithmic composition system. It details the journey and process of creating a piece of popular music using this novel technology, which we originally showcased at the New Interfaces for Musical Expression (NIME) conference in 2020. In this piece, entitled Creep into my Lawn, the Physarum polycephalum-based memristors act as creative collaborators in the composition process. Our work aims to demonstrate the potential of UC paradigms in creative applications and to disseminate this technology to non-experts and musicians so that they can incorporate it into their creative processes.