Investigating morphing algorithms for generative music

This paper presents our research into morphing algorithms for generating musical transitions, including digitally inspired composing techniques as well as models of existing creative processes. We show that it is possible to generate effective morphs between contrasting musical passages and describe some ways in which iterative developments seem to have improved the musicality of the generated material. The paper begins by outlining the potential of musical morphing processes and introducing important considerations. Relevant existing research and music theory is then summarised. Following this, our developments of morphing algorithms are detailed and some evaluation criteria are proposed. The article concludes by discussing the apparent results achieved by these morphing algorithms and what they indicate about directions for further research.