Track 4 (Part 2 of 2): Ripped-up Maps (1997/2003) by Andrew May (b. 1968) is an environment for improvisation by violinist (or solo instrumentalist) and computer together. Each conditions the other: the computer decides on its behavior based on the actions of the player, who in turn must respond to the machine's actions and predilections in order to guide the machine through the piece. The computer switches abruptly between four very different states of behavior (it's a very moody and temperamental computer part). In each state, the computer has a different rationale for how and when to switch to another state based on what it "hears." The player can suggest, but cannot command. The performer can also shape the computer's "instrument" by giving it new samples to use (the piece may begin with the computer silent, or with a set of sounds pre-loaded). The title of the piece refers to the process of mapping by which input data about the violinist's playing are correlated with output--creating tunes, patterns, and tendencies whose shapes may be ripped apart at the continental divides. [20:38, Part I is 13:52]
- - - - - notes by Andrew May
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