Emergence and Emergency

Theoretical and Practical Considerations in Agostino di Scipio’s Works

Abstract

Agostino Di Scipio refers in his works to theoretical implications of system theory and transfers its models into his compositions, installations, and recently into his sounding objects. Some of these references are mentioned in this paper and the transfer is looked at. In interactive real-time compositions like Di Scipio’s Audible ecosystemics series (2002–05) the concept of emergence is central, the unplanned and unforeseen emergence of new qualities. Seemingly, the composer withdraws to let new structures evolve unhindered from the interactions between the system’s parts. But lack of control allows for emergency situations. In order to avoid emergency Di Scipio adds self-regulation to his computer composition systems.