I study the structure of harmony, melody, rhythm, the twelve-tone technique, axis system, musical set theory, counterpoint, serialism, and minimalist techniques in composition. Using these techniques, I have developed a system of composing called, TopoTonics™, a generative AI algorithm based on statistical mechanics and phase transitions that produces varying levels of melodic complexity. In particular, this system is efficient in creating mid-complex melodies which are important when composing in any style or genre. From these melodies, I derive musical phrases that contain intricate texture and broad dynamic range by making use of all twelve notes of the chromatic scale, as opposed to the more restrictive seven-note diatonic scale. Using this expanded vocabulary, yet still retaining a tonal structure, an entirely new combination of notes can be mapped from a topological space and composed into beautiful pieces of music.
I am trained in physical chemistry and music theory. I have been developing software algorithms for studying molecular structure and function for over 30 years. I also have a passion for creating neo-classical music compositions and have been playing and composing music since 2008. I studied both classical and jazz violin with Scott Tixier for four years, between 2010 and 2014. I have a B.S. in chemistry from UCLA, a Ph.D in physical chemistry from the University of Washington, and a postdoctoral fellowship in molecular dynamics from UCSF.
Beautiful sounding music shouldn’t be overly difficult and complex to compose or perform. Utilizing properties of symmetry, all complex systems can be reduced to simplistic or fundamental terms, this creates the foundation of my compositions. As Frédéric François Chopin points out: “Simplicity is the highest goal, achievable when you have overcome all difficulties. After one has played a vast quantity of notes and more notes, it is simplicity that emerges as the crowning reward of art.”
Yours truly,
Gersh!!