Maths & Music: a series of articles combining science and art

These are the many and varied questions that come to mind when we think of music... and mathematics. These questions are classic and have been the subject of numerous works and theories. On the other hand, the current connections between these two fields are not always obvious: Apart from the (perhaps preconceived) idea that mathematicians are generally gifted in music.

As we look into the matter, further questions emerge: Can mathematics stimulate creativity in music? What algorithms are used in music creation software? How is mathematics used to model an instrument? How can artificial intelligence be used to generate music?  Why study music through the prism of mathematics, and vice versa?

In order to explore this universe and try to answer some of the underlying questions, the Insmi is launching an editorial project on the links between mathematics and music. On a regular basis, a specialist in the field will contribute an article on "mathémusical" dynamics, hearing the shape of a drum, Euclidean rhythms, etc.

Elise Janvresse, Deputy Scientific Director in charge of teaching and scientific dissemination and mediation, and Christophe Besse, Director of CNRS Mathematics (Insmi).