Learn SONIC-PI with Real Code Examples

Sonic Pi provides a Ruby-based DSL for musical composition and live performance.

Users can program beats, synths, loops, and samples using code.

It encourages learning programming through music and creativity.

Supports real-time audio output with low latency.

Can be used for both educational and professional musical applications.

`play` - plays a note or chord

`sample` - plays audio samples

`sleep` - defines duration between notes

`live_loop` - loops music in real-time

Threading and concurrency for layered compositions

Note values (e.g., `:C4`, `:E3`) for pitch

Synths (e.g., `:beep`, `:prophet`) for sound types

`sleep` to define note duration

`live_loop` for repeating sections

Effects (FX) and samples to modify or layer sound

Single `.spi` script file per composition

Optional multiple buffers for organization

Assets folder for custom samples

No complex file system required

Entire composition often contained in one live code session

Write code in Sonic Pi editor

Use `play` or `sample` commands to generate sound

Define loops with `live_loop` for repetition

Add FX and timing adjustments

Iterate and modify in real-time while listening

Beginner: play simple notes and loops

Intermediate: combine loops and synths

Advanced: use FX, concurrency, and samples creatively

Expert: live coding performance and algorithmic composition

Architect: integrate Sonic Pi with sensors or external MIDI controllers

Sonic Pi vs Pure Data -> Pure Data: visual programming, Sonic Pi: live coding text

Sonic Pi vs SuperCollider -> SuperCollider: advanced synthesis, Sonic Pi: beginner-friendly live coding

Sonic Pi vs Ableton Live -> Ableton: GUI DAW, Sonic Pi: code-based music

Sonic Pi vs ChucK -> ChucK: precise timing, Sonic Pi: easy learning and education

Sonic Pi vs TidalCycles -> TidalCycles: pattern-based, Sonic Pi: live coding with loops and synths

2011 - Sonic Pi initial development by Sam Aaron

2012 - First public releases for education

2013 - Added advanced synths and FX

2015 - Integration with Raspberry Pi for schools

2020–2025 - Active updates and community growth

Live coding - writing code to generate music in real-time

Synth - a software instrument generating sound

Sample - pre-recorded audio clip

FX - effects applied to sound

Loop - repeated section of music