Creative Quantum Computing: Inverse FFT, Sound Synthesis, Adaptive Sequencing and Musical Composition

Abstract: Quantum computing is emerging as an alternative computing technology, which is built on the principles of subatomic physics. In spite of continuing progress in developing increasingly more sophisticated hardware and software, access to quantum computing still requires specialist expertise that is largely confined to research laboratories. Moreover, the target applications for these developments remain primarily scientific. This chapter introduces research aimed at improving this scenario. Our research is aimed at extending the range of applications of quantum computing towards the arts and creative applications, music being our point of departure. This chapter reports on initial outcomes, whereby quantum information processing controls an inverse Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) sound synthesizer and an adaptive musical sequencer. A composition called Zeno is presented to illustrate a practical real-world application.