Quantum Computer Music: Foundations and Initial Experiments

TL;DR

This paper introduces the foundational concepts of quantum computer music, explores quantum adaptations of classical music generation methods, and presents initial experiments demonstrating quantum interference in generative music algorithms.

Contribution

It establishes the field of 'Quantum Computer Music' by combining quantum computing principles with algorithmic music generation, including the novel Basak-Miranda algorithm.

Findings

Quantum interference can be used to influence musical Markov chains

Quantum algorithms can generate novel musical patterns

Initial experiments show potential for quantum-enhanced music creation

Abstract

Quantum computing is a nascent technology, which is advancing rapidly. There is a long history of research into using computers for music. Nowadays computers are absolutely essential for the music economy. Thus, it is very likely that quantum computers will impact the music industry in time to come. This chapter lays the foundations of the new field of 'Quantum Computer Music'. It begins with an introduction to algorithmic computer music and methods to program computers to generate music, such as Markov chains and random walks. Then, it presents quantum computing versions of those methods. The discussions are supported by detailed explanations of quantum computing concepts and walk-through examples. A bespoke generative music algorithm is presented, the Basak-Miranda algorithm, which leverages a property of quantum mechanics known as constructive and destructive interference to operate a musical Markov chain. An Appendix introducing the fundamentals of quantum computing deemed necessary to understand the chapter and a link to access Jupyter Notebooks with examples are also provided.