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SYSTEM STRUCTURE

SimpleTEXT requires three computers, an internet connection, sound system and two data projectors. The computers (drawn RED, GREEN and BLUE) control the phone and web, the visuals, and the sound, respectively.

1. SMS messages are read from our phone via a serial link. Messages from the web are also read via PHP script.

2-3. A web image search is executed and sent to the visuals computer.

4. The message is parsed to create a musiccontrolling MIDI message sent to the music computer.

5. The message is read out using speech synthesis on the MIDI heartbeat.

7. The music computer sends a regular MIDI 'heartbeat' to keep the performance in sync.

8. The visuals computer creates loops of images and labels which are projected from a MIDI controlled real-time video environment.

9. The system displays a retro ASCII status screen giving feedback and clues as to the workings of the system.

10. The music is played via a professional soundcard connected to the PA.

MUSIC

SimpleTEXT incorporates a 'generative' MIDI controlled music patch which strikes a balance between interactivity and composition to create an extremely variable, but always musical audio canvas. The 2nd role of the music system is to regulate the operation of the visuals and speech synthesis elements of the performance in order to create a rhythmic whole. The music comes from the world of ambient electronica and is loud, tuneful and dynamic.

VISUALS

SimpleTEXT creates loops of web-searched images held in memory on a dedicated computer to create a hi-res real-time generated video projection which abstracts the images through video feedback and audio control. A second projector displays a retro (and tongue in cheek) ASCII interface purporting to reveal the inner workings of the 'SimpleTEXT system'. This is used both to provide feedback on messages received, and to display a 'music monitor' to give clues as to the text parsing system that is creating the music. The text parsing is in one sense a word puzzle, the solving of which allows the audience freedom to explore the sonic possibilities of SimpleTEXT's generative music system