The Sound of Playing: a Study Into the Music and Culture of Chiptunes
QUEENSLAND CONSERVATORIUM GRIFFITH UNIVERSITY The Sound of Playing: A Study into the Music and Culture of Chiptunes Alex Yabsley (B.Mus.T.) A dissertation submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Bachelor of Music Technology with Honours October 2007 i Abstract The sound made by early videogame consoles has become synonymous with representing the sound of playing all electronic games. A musical movement called, Chiptunes, is embracing these sounds and reinterpreting them for self-expression. In recent years there has been resurgence in the popularity of this music, through the accessibility of creative software and the proliferation of online communities. However, the literature surrounding this topic is predominantly journalistic and therefore lacks depth and academic credibility. In response to this the following research project undertakes a thorough investigation into modern Chiptune musicians and the cultural and artistic significance of their music. It achieves this by including surveys and interviews with a number of active Chiptune musicians, as well as incorporating the author’s own experience in creating this music. The results of this study reveal a detailed understanding of the effect of technology on composition, the importance of human-machine interfaces and the development of participatory culture. Keywords Chiptunes, Chip Music, 8bit, Micromusic, Game Boy Music, Nanoloop, LSDJ, creative consumer, prosumer, videogame culture, internet culture, online communities, electronic music, experimental
[Show full text]