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Berliner Schule Sequencer version 0.9.0

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@ReinerBforartists ReinerBforartists released this 03 Jun 07:55
· 55 commits to main since this release
v0.9.0
9e77300

Berliner Schule Sequencer (BSS)

An algorithmic MIDI sequencer that runs directly in the browser. It generates melodic patterns inspired by the Berliner Schule style of electronic music, balancing repetition with subtle organic evolution.

bss

Core Functionality

The tool is designed as a sequence generator. While it includes a basic internal synth for monitoring and previewing patterns, its primary purpose is to generate MIDI data. The actual sound design and final music production are intended to take place within a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) or with external hardware via the MIDI export function.

The tool uses a Pseudo-Random Number Generator (PRNG) to create sequences based on musical constraints. Users can either generate random patterns or use fixed seeds to recreate specific results.

Composition Modes

  • Classic: A "Random Walk" within the selected scale, creating fluid and grounded melodies.
  • Klaus Schulze: Focuses on sparse, long-held notes and drones for a meditative atmosphere.
  • Offbeat Anchor: Locks specific steps (usually offbeats) to a fixed pedal point while the rest of the melody varies.
  • Arpeggiator: Cycles through chord tones; these can be mutated over time to evolve the rhythmic pattern.
  • Motivic: Generates a 4-note "DNA motif" and applies classical transformations (Inversion, Retrograde).

Harmonic Palette (Scales)

The mood of the sequence is determined by the selected scale:

  • Dorian: Sophisticated, slightly melancholic but open.
  • Phrygian: Dark, tense, and exotic; typical for "dark cosmic" sounds.
  • Aeolian (Natural Minor): Classic sad or dramatic tone.
  • Mixolydian: Brighter, more dominant and open.
  • Minor/Major Pentatonic: Simplified scales that always sound harmonious and fluid.

Evolutionary Export (🧬)

Beyond standard MIDI loops, the sequencer features an evolutionary chain generator. This mimics the drift of vintage modular systems by mutating a sequence over several blocks:

  • Mutation: Controls how much each block differs from the previous one.
  • Drift: Adds probability for sudden octave jumps.
  • Grip: Determines how strongly the evolution adheres to the original theme.
  • Root Shift: Allows for harmonic progressions (e.g., Cycle of Fifths, Modal shifts) between blocks.

Installation & Usage

No installation is required.

  1. Download the html file.
  2. Open berliner-schule-sequencer.html in any modern web browser.

Operation Guide

Parameter Behavior

  • Live Parameters (Green Labels): These affect the playback engine in real-time (e.g., BPM, Swing). Changes are audible immediately.
  • Generative Parameters (Amber Labels): These define the blueprint of the sequence. Changing these values triggers an automatic regeneration of the pattern upon releasing the slider or changing the selection. The "↻ Generate" button can also be used to manually trigger a new seed.

Key Settings

  • Timing & Rhythm: Adjust BPM, Swing, and Steps per Beat (resolution).
  • Phrase & Notes:
    • Scale & Root: Defines the harmonic palette.
    • Steps: Length of one musical idea before it repeats.
    • Density: Probability of a note occurring on any given step.
    • Interval: Limits the "jump" between consecutive notes to control melodic smoothness.
  • Variation: Controls how much each repeat of a phrase differs from the original, preventing robotic repetition.

Visual Legend

  • Blue cell: Standard generated note.
  • Pink cell: Anchor note (fixed pitch).
  • Dark/empty cell: A rest.
  • Semi-transparent blue: A tie (held note).
  • Blue height bar: Relative pitch indicator.

License

Berliner Schule Seqencer is free and open source.
MIT License © 2026 Reiner Prokein

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