[Kiberpipa] toplap manifesto

[Andraz Tori]

-------- Forwarded Message --------
Od: Luka Princic <nova at skylined.org>

za zainteresirane o napredku glasbene Kreacije..

http://www.toplap.org/
ManifestoDraft - TOPLAP

We demand:

* Give us access to the performer's mind, to the whole human instrument.
* Obscurantism is dangerous. Show us your screens.
* Programs are instruments that can change themselves
* The program is to be transcended - Artificial language is the way.
* Code should be seen as well as heard, underlying algorithms viewed as
well as their visual outcome.
* Live coding is not about tools. Algorithms are thoughts. Chainsaws are
tools. That's why algorithms are sometimes harder to notice than chainsaws.
Though they share some other properties: when there is silence they don't
work! That is good for a performer to know when in action!

We recognise continuums of interaction and profundity, but prefer:
* Insight into algorithms
* The skillful extemporisation of algorithm as an expressive/impressive
display of mental dexterity
* No backup (minidisc, DVD, safety net computer)

We acknowledge that:
* It is not necessary for a lay audience to understand the code to
appreciate it, much as it is not necessary to know how to play guitar in
order to appreciate watching a guitar performance.
* Live coding may be accompanied by an impressive display of manual
dexterity and the glorification of the typing interface. But on the other
hand "slow hand tapping" techniques can reveal the same virtuosity...
* Performance involves continuums of interaction, covering perhaps the scope
of controls with respect to the parameter space of the artwork, or gestural
content, particularly directness of expressive detail. Whilst the
traditional haptic rate timing deviations of expressivity in instrumental
music are not approximated in code, why repeat the past? No doubt the
writing of code and expression of thought will develop its own nuances and
customs.

Performances and events closely meeting these manifesto conditions may apply
for TOPLAP approval and seal.