The BOEUF conceptual framework

BOEUF is a conceptual framework for modeling and building orchestras of digital musical instruments. It consists of a classification of modes of collaboration, and a set of components which can be used to enable these modes in digital instruments. We developed this classification after conducting interviews with digital musicians who work in ensembles, as well as literature review of work on digital ensembles and collaborative instruments. The word “boeuf” is french slang for a jam session.

Modes of Collaboration

The modes of collaboration are a categorization which is intended to describe all the ways that musicians collaborate and communicate during performance. This includes interactions which are mediated (i.e. take place through some technology) as well as unmediated interactions (which can occur through being in the same space together.)

We propose that there are three modes of collaboration: Cooperation, Communication, and Organisation

Cooperation Modes

Cooperation describes the ways that musicians coordinate their actions with respect to their instruments. This cooperation can be:

Communication Modes

Communication describes how musicians exchange information which may then influence their actions.

Organisation Modes

Organisation describes the relationships between musicians. Organisation does not directly affect the sound production, but it impacts how the communication and cooperation modes operate.

The Boeuf components

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