Control-based modal synthesis

Walters, Spencer

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https://hdl.handle.net/2142/100039 Copy

Description

Title

Control-based modal synthesis

Author(s)

Walters, Spencer

Contributor(s)

Haken, Lippold

Issue Date

2018-05

Keyword(s)

• Physical Modeling Synthesis
• Electronic Music
• Computer Music
• Subtractive Synthesis
• Modal Synthesis

Abstract

This thesis presents an analysis of real-time controllable modal synthesis for use in music. There are only a few real-time modal synthesizers in existence. This is largely due to the computational demand that modal synthesis required in the past. At present, real-time modal synthesis is computationally feasible. This is beneficial to us because it is a powerful form of physical modeling synthesis. In this paper, we attempt to demonstrate and analyze a modern usage of modal synthesis. First, a history of modal synthesis is provided to educate the reader on the topic. Next, we create a simple form of controllable modal synthesis: SubMode. With SubMode, we apply subtractive synthesis theory to modal synthesis to demonstrate a simple modal synthesis system. Last, we analyze a more complex system of modal synthesis: the EaganMatrix. With the EaganMatrix, we show a variety of sounds that may be synthesized and the high level of control that is possible with modal synthesis. We hope to leave readers with an elementary understanding of modal synthesis and inspire them to create their own forms of controllable modal synthesis for use in music.

Type of Resource

text

Language

en

Permalink

http://hdl.handle.net/2142/100039

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