WHERE:
Durham Science Center, Room 111

WHAT:

Lars Erickson
Composer

will give a talk on

Abstract:
The Pi Symphony , an original orchestral work, makes use of various methods of conveying a numeric sequence to music. I will describe these methods and show examples. Using the digits of Pi and 'e' as melodic and rhythmic elements is the impetus of the Pi Symphony. Although it is commonly known that math and music are closely related, and there are many levels of complexity at which they may be linked, the Pi symphony makes some of the simplest connections between these two subjects. The mapping of a sequence of digits to a melody, harmonic structure and rhythms.

The second movement of the Pi Symphony makes extensive use of the Circle of fifths, to compliment the theme of Pi, the ratio of a circles circumference to its diameter. Music, being an artistic endeavor, can inspire and be inspired by logic and emotions. The inspiration for the Pi Symphony comes largely from the moment of academic discovery, and the actual melody of Pi itself.