OVERVIEW
The Project: Sounds and colors is a composition tool where users can associate
colors, sounds , and letters and use these elements to compose small sound and color
works---sketches or compositions in language, sound and color.
In the final version of the project, participants will be able to submit pieces to a
library of works, select and play pieces from the library, and collaborate with other users.
Users will also be able to their hear pieces as they are filtered through
an "averaged" palette : an averaged set of color/sound associations based on the the usership
of the project within different internet domains.
GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS
The project has four discrete "processes" (note: some buttons will not appear until you
are at a place where you can use them).
1
Make discrete composition elements from a palette of sounds, colors,
and letters.
each of the icons at the bottom of the black control panel
affect the color, sound, alphabet, and letter of an element in the round
target window
(click on the help diagram button below for the display panel).
you can choose to associate all three palette elements or use them by themselves.
color alone appears as a circle and plain sounds appear as abstract lines inscribed
in a square.
once you have an element the way you like it, click on it. it will then be catapulted into
the composition space. If you have associated a sound with your element it will sound every time
your mouse rolls over it.
do this as many times as you like.
[ compose ]
2
Arrange and size these elements in the composition space.
Once you have catapaulted a piece onto the stage, you can move it around by holding down the
mouse button. Note, as you move it around it will get bigger and smaller. You can
do this with all your elements. When an element is the size you like, simply let go of the mouse.
You can arrange and rearrange these pieces as much as you like. When you have them the way you
like them, you can then perform your piece.
[ compose ]
3
Perform and record a composition by holding the mouse button down while
dragging the record instrument across the canvas.
grab the twitching instrument at the top. While holding the
mouse button down, drag this record head across your composition. The screen will dim as you record the
piece, and each of the elements will remain grey until you pass over them, when they will flash with
their characteristic color and sound.
When you are done, simply let go. The record head will return to its place in the corner and a new button will appear.
This is the Play button.
Click on this to play back what you have just recorded. If you don't like it,
rearrange the elements and record it again. If you'd like to clear the stage and start again, press the clear button.
[ compose ]
4
sign and submit your piece for others to see and to use. (not yet functional)
Once you have played your piece you will (eventually) be able to submit it to the library. This version won't
allow that yet . . .
enjoy.
compose |
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