The virtual forest: Integrating VRML Worlds and generative music
Nada Bates-Brkljac, M. Dupras · UWE Research Repository (UWE Bristol) · 2002
The Virtual Forest is a VRML world representing an imaginary forest, with a real-time generated music soundtrack. This soundtrack is generated by an algorithm which responds via network messages to actions happening in the VRML world. The VRML model uses real-life data (elevation maps, aerial and landscape photography) from a real forest to model an imaginary forest area of approximately 3 square km. The forest has a small number of animated books which when touched, trigger 'state' changes in the sound producing algorithm to alter the mood of the soundtrack. This is achieved by sending URL messages to a PHP gateway which then informs a PD (Pure Data) program to change its internal state accordingly. The PD program uses stochastic processes to generate, manipulate and recycle (or feedback) a sound stream. To further enhance the user experience of interaction with the generative process, some sounds are also immediately triggered by the books; additionally, a short generative poem is also returned to the user, as the content of the relevant page in the virtual book. This project was realized in the context of the National Creative Technology Initiative, at UWE-Bristol.