Real-time Notation Using Brainwave Control

We present a significant extension to our work in the field of Brain-Computer Music Interfacing (BCMI) through providing brainwave control over a musical score in real time. This new approach combines measuring Electroencephalogram (EEG) data elicited via generating Steady State Visual Evoked Potentials (SSVEP), with mappings that allow a user to influence a score presented to a musician in a compositional and/or performance setting. Mind Trio is a generative BCMI composition based upon a musical game of 18 century origin. It is designed to respond to the subjective decisions of a user allowing them to affect control over elements of notation, ultimately directing parameters that can influence musical dramaturgy and expression via the brain. We present the design of this piece alongside the practicalities of using such a system on low-cost and accessible equipment. Our work further demonstrates how such an approach can be used by multiple users and musicians, and provides a sound foundation for our upcoming work involving four BCMI subjects and a string quartet.