Ecosystem Models for Real-Time Generative Music: A Methodology and Framework

In this paper I discuss a methodology for applying computational ecosystem models to sound installations and generative music systems: sonic ecosystems. I discuss the need for tools that facilitate the introduction of detailed analysis of complex multi-agent systems into a creative computing workflow, in order to create powerful ecosystemic artworks, and list a number of design requirements associated with an ecosystem-based methodology. I present a software framework and a specific sonic ecosystem model that demonstrates these ideas.