Abstract: 

In this talk Shelly will share observations from the wild of improvising with and through algorithms. She describes a number of performance systems which explore possible synergies between the dynamics of improvisation in music ensembles which use network technology to exchange musical and social data, and the dynamics of online social networking which is fundamentally mediated by algorithms and interface design. The pieces discuss and explore the dynamics of human interaction when data collection and algorithms are used to modify or moderate this interaction, and algorithms subvert or enable particular power-dynamics. This critical approach to algorithmically mediating improvised performance feeds into a live coding performance practice which acknowledges and highlights human error and failure. The talk will be followed by a performance of her work Flow (2015-16) which uses live EEG data to disrupt her live coding performance.

Bio:

Shelly Knotts produces live-coded and network music performances and projects which explore aspects of code, data and collaboration in improvisation. She performs and presents her work internationally at festivals and conference, and collaborates prolifically with computers and other humans. She studied for a PhD in Live Computer Music at Durham University with a focus on the social dynamics of collaboration in Network Music. In 2017 she was Leverhulme Artist-in- Residence at School of Chemistry, Newcastle University, working on Molecular Soundscapes which included Chemical Algorave exploring live coded data sonification. She is currently a Research Fellow at SensiLab, Monash University working on ARC funded project Improvisational Interfaces. 

As well as performing at numerous Algoraves and Live Coding events, she collaborates with improvisers across a spectrum of styles and practices. Current projects include algo-pop duo ALGOBABEZ (with Joanne Armitage), international telematic laptop ensemble OFFAL (Orchestra For Females And Laptops), and audio-visual, generative live coding performance [Sisesta Pealkiri] with Alo Allik. 

She has received commissions and residencies from national funders in the UK. Her music has been released on Fractal Meat and Chordpunch record labels and in 2017 she was a winner of the inaugural The Oram Awards for innovation in sound and music.

datamusician.net

@shelly_knotts

@algobbz

The performative-lecture is supported by Humans and IT Research Centre, Department of Digital Design and Information Studies, and Digital Aesthetics Research Center at the Aarhus University, as well as Kunsthal Aarhus.