From Konnakol to Live Coding
Alex McLean · 2024
Konnakol is a South Indian, Carnatic musical practice involving the vocal recitation of algorithmic, geometric rhythmic patterns of non-lexical syllables. I reflect on the experience of learning konnakol rhythms, and of adapting the TidalCycles and Strudel live coding environments to better represent Konnakol-inspired rhythms, based on the concept of the metrical tactus. I share visualisations of examples, and the development of a hybrid practice that integrates vocal patterns with live coding. I conclude by considering the issue of cultural appropriation around this work.