Game theory applications

This section is devoted to discussing some of my work around game theory in more detail. My approach to musical composition often involves what I call 'strategising as a performance act'. I use game theory to create a conceptual framework for performer choice in indeterminate music primarily to connect performer choice with the problem of choice in society. The games are settings of strategic interaction for the players and together with the literature on these games underpin musical, structural, dramatic, philosophical, and generally artistic considerations.

 

It is important to note that my creative practice deviates from previous extensive work in this area in two ways:

 

• it's not using game theory as part of compositional processes purely for the generation of musical material but uses games as subject matters in their own right.

• it's not using games solely for the creation of antagonism between opposing forces. My research is not relying on zero-sum games like the seminal work of Xenakis, but is rather focusing in situations where there is conflict between collective and individual interests.

 

Theatre is crucial in communicating to the audience the relationship between the game and the music and my works often involve stage movement and ceremonial/ritualistic elements.

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You can read more about my previous research on this topic in my PhD thesis. I will be using this space to post information about new projects.