Extempore
Extempore is an open-source programming environment aimed at live coding of interactive, multimedia systems. It allows musicians, artists, and other creatives to write algorithms that generate audio and graphics in real-time during a performance.
live-coding
interactive
multimedia
audio
graphics
Extempore: Open-Source Live Coding Environment for Real-Time Audio and Graphics Generation
Discover Extempore, an open-source programming environment designed for live coding of interactive multimedia systems. Generate audio and graphics in real-time during performances with this innovative tool.
What is Extempore?
Extempore is an open-source, cross-platform programming environment designed for live coding of interactive, multimedia systems. It allows musicians, VJs, installation artists, and other creative coders to write algorithms that generate audio, video, graphics, and more in real-time during a performance or exhibition.
Some key features of Extempore include:
- A dialect of the Lisp programming language called xtlang for scripting interactive systems
- Strong timing guarantees and audio callback functionality for low-latency audio synthesis and processing
- Advanced audio features like polyphonic synthesizers, effects, spatialization, and more
- Image and video processing capabilities using OpenGL shaders
- Support for OSC and MIDI protocols to integrate with other music software and hardware
- A Clojure-inspired programming environment optimized for live coding
- Cross-platform support for macOS, Windows, and Linux
Extempore enables artists to experiment and freely improvise with algorithmic design in real-time with immediate audiovisual feedback. It facilitates creative flow for interactive performances across disciplines like live coding music, algoraves, generative art installations, VJing, and more. The environment promotes iteration and tinkering by allowing quick changes to be made to running systems.
Extempore Features
Features
- Live coding environment
- Real-time audio and graphics generation
- Support for OSC and MIDI protocols
- Scheme-based programming language
- Timed callback scheduling system
- Audio effects and synthesis modules
- 2D and 3D graphics rendering
- Customizable editor and IDE
Pricing
- Open Source
Pros
Low latency for real-time performance
Highly flexible and customizable
Active open source community support
Cross-platform availability
Cons
Steep learning curve
Limited documentation and tutorials
Requires proficiency in Scheme programming
Not as full-featured as commercial options
Official Links
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