Elements/Bases/Double Helix - DNA
Composition
The 2nd,3rd and 4th parts of the Arecibo message are Elements, Bases and the Double Helix. The atomic numbers of fundamental elements are embedded within the message. This is then followed by 6 bases that form the structure of DNA. Finally, the double helix structure states the number of bases required in a human genome as well a visual depiction of the rotating DNA structure.
As these sections are all so closely intertwined, I decided to create a composition based on the structure of DNA. First, the elements are translated into sounds based on atomic spectra. These sounds are then sampled and form percussive hits that are then used as the notes for rhythmic patterns within the nucleotide formulas that are in the original message. Once each pair has been formed, they are then reversed and 'spun' - similar to how the bases are arranged in DNA.
The video provides all the details in the production of this composition. Fitting in with the meta-theme, this, to me, is a video score - a video that gives all the details of the production of the composition visually.
I have always been fascinated by minimalistic works such as Reich's Music for 18 Musicians: Part V and Four Tet's Unicorn - both using additive processes to show progression. My challenge in this work is to provide an experience for the listener to understand the complexities of chemical structures in a simplistic minimal manner that is evident both aurally and visually.
The composition begins with the 5 sounds of the elements. The production of these sounds are formed using atomic spectra. The use of software such as Mathmatica in this context is beyond the scope of undergraduate mathematics so here is a video that explains the production of these sounds [1]
Once I obtained these sounds, I used Ableton's Simpler to sample and condense these into percussive sounds that still hold all the vital data of the element. I adjusted sustain and decay accordingly.
In choosing how to arrange the bases, I had to consider what sounded musically interesting whilst staying true to the science. Each of the 6 bases can be placed into 3 pairs. The A-T, C-G pairings function to form double or triple hydrogen bonds between each other which are then alternated within DNA structure. The backbone of the DNA is composed of a 5-carbon sugar (deoxyribose) and a phosphate group [2]. The order in which the binary sequence for these pairings appear is solely down to producing a different rhythmic feel every time a binary 'digit' is added.
Finally, the double helix structure is defined as two strands of bases that wrap around each other. This is shown in the piece at the end of each base-pair by the reflection of the rhythm - repeated 4 times before moving onto the next base-pair.
On reflection, there was opportunity to showcase the DNA sonification combined with all 6 bases. I did experiment with combining all the sounds together, but this didn't lead to a musically satisfying response nor one where the structure of the meta-bases is evident to the listener. Changing the pitch of the original samples could lead to a more satisfying result in terms of the full sonification but then that poses the risk of losing vital data that ties the music together. A careful balance needs to be struck if I do decide to extend this work in the future. However, I am enjoying exploring the infinite possibilities that Ableton does provide - showing development from previous years studying composition.
[1] Minute Physics 2011. [online] Tutorial- Creating the sound of Hydrogen. Available at: <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IhvW8yZdE5A>
[2] Clark, J., 2016. DNA - Structure. [online] Chemguide.co.uk. Available at: <https://www.chemguide.co.uk/organicprops/aminoacids/dna1.html>
(593 words)