Neurime

A Neural Network-Inspired Musical Interface

An instrument that learns, evolves, and composes with you

What is Neurime?

Neurime is a large-scale interactive musical instrument inspired by neural networks. Designed in collaboration with Michael Rosen at NYU ITP, it reimagines musical composition as an adaptive system where connections form, evolve, and fade—just like synapses in the brain.

How It Works

Each "neuron" in Neurime is represented by an individual audio channel that changes in complexity with use. The more frequently a node is activated, the richer its resonance becomes through additive synthesis and modulation.

The Neural Connection: When two or more nodes are activated together, a connection is formed. Neurime remembers these interactions, indexing the relationships by strength and distance. Over time, a dynamic web of musical connections emerges, allowing users to compose by touch.

This real-time learning system allows people interacting with Neurime to create ever-changing soundscapes, forming music collaboratively and intuitively.

Why We Built It

The goal was to create an audio interface that behaves like a neural network—where connections are formed through touch and sound spreads across the system. By interacting with the wall-based installation, users could compose music organically, shaping the auditory landscape by triggering nodes and establishing temporary sound relationships.

Exhibitions & Performances

• • Neurhyme, Cameo Gallery, Brooklyn (2011)
• • New Interfaces for Musical Expression (NIME), Michigan (2012)

Exploring the Future of Interactive Sound

Neurime was an exploration into how AI-inspired systems can influence musical expression. It remains a fascinating study of adaptive, evolving compositions—where music is not just played, but learns and changes with the performer.