The Typographic Sequencer is a system of Max/MSP programming and micro-electronics which translates characters of the English language into audio melodies. I developed this system for live improvisational performances in various contexts. The concept of the system is that human language is intrinsically rhythmic and always subject to translation. By transforming the characters of visual language into audio elements, indeterminate melodies are created, providing a ‘seed’ for live musical improvisation. The programming of the system defines the qualities of the sound, (pitch, timbre,tempo), and the language/text input serves as the musical score.

I used this system within a number of contexts including live audio-visual performance and as performance art (see below) . Typically this system is used in conjunction with revolve.

As performed in a gallery, audience members type a line of text on a computer keyboard that is projected on a wall of the performance space. The system converts the text input into rhythmic sound, illuminating the rhythmic structure of the text they entered. As the performance artist, I improvise musical compositions to the rhythmic sound with a variety of musical instruments.