Tracing Compositional Process: Software synthesis code as documentary evidence

Composers working with text-based software synthesis languages (such as the “Music N” languages) tend to produce rich documentation of their compositional process as a byproduct of their work. This evidence, in the form of custom programs and synthesis specifications, documents the technical means of a work’s realization; insights into the composer’s creative process may be extended if multiple drafts, versions and revisions are available, or when other contextualizing documents (for example, paper sketches and source soundfiles) are also preserved. In many instances, synthesis language scores will be valuable as historical documents, with implications for the reception and criticism of the associated works.