Le 30 juin 2017
de 11h00 à 11h30
Le Patio (université de Strasbourg)
22 rue René Descartes, 67000 Strasbourg
amphithéâtre 4
Séance - Leading Figures of Modernity (II): Xenakis and Ligeti
Pré-acte / Acte
Auteurs : Mikhail Malt et Benny Sluchin
Game theory is the theoretical context of three compositions by Iannis Xenakis: Duel (1959), Stratégie (1962) and Linaia Agon (1972). The first two works set up two orchestras, or more precisely two conductors in a musical battle. The basic structure differs only in ensembles size, tactics (i.e. musical material) and the complexity of the gain matrices. Linaia Agon, for horn, trombone and tuba, is a later composition, combining completely determined parts with a part whose structure follows game theory. The general aspects of Duel, Stratégie and Linaia Agon having already been presented in other studies, we concentrate on the formal aspects of Duel and the structure resulting from the underlying use of the combat model governed by Game Theory. In this communication, which takes the side of a computational and empirical musicology, we identify the dynamics resulting from the game theory model to the generated musical structure. For this, we have performed several computer simulations of Duel to study the structures generated, with emphasis on the “ways of playing” the work. Duel must be interpreted by two conductors who, according to Xenakis’ instructions, have to make choices in real time, following precise instructions in relation to the “game matrix” provided by the composer. From our point of view, the choices of the opponents, within the framework of a performance, will have a significant influence on the musical form generated. The main aim of our research is to be able to guide conductors on the different “outcomes of the fight” according to their decisions.
