Automatic Notation Generators

This article presents various custom software tools called Automatic Notation Generators (ANG's) developed by the authors to aid in the creation of algorithmic instrumental compositions. The unique possibilities afforded by ANG software are described, along with relevant examples of their compositional output. These avenues of exploration include: mappings of spectral data directly into notated music, the creation of software transcribers that enable users to generate multiple realizations of algorithmic compositions, and new types of spontaneous performance with live generated screen-based music notation. The authors present their existing software tools along with suggestions for future research and artistic inquiry.