Learn SONIC-PI-LIVE with Real Code Examples

Sonic Pi uses code to produce sounds, sequences, and rhythms in real-time.

It combines music composition with programming education, teaching loops, functions, and concurrency.

Supports synthesizers, samples, effects, and live manipulation of sound parameters.

Designed for live performance, algorithmic composition, and interactive music coding.

Can run on multiple platforms including Windows, macOS, Linux, and Raspberry Pi.

Ruby-based scripting language

Use of sleep, loops, and functions for timing and structure

Synth and sample playback

Effects like reverb, echo, distortion

Live code update without stopping the sound

Code is executed in real-time to produce sound.

Sleep determines the timing between notes.

Live loops allow concurrent, repeating musical patterns.

Synths and samples define the type of sound produced.

Effects modify sound in real-time during playback.

Single script or multiple scripts using 'require' for modularity

Live loops and functions define musical structures

Comments for musical notation or code explanation

Optional sample directories for audio files

Output audio routed to system or MIDI devices

Write code in the Sonic Pi editor.

Use live loops to create repeating musical patterns.

Choose synths, samples, and effects.

Modify code while music is playing for live performance.

Record or export audio if needed.

Beginner: simple melodies and beats

Intermediate: live loops with multiple layers

Advanced: algorithmic compositions and generative music

Expert: live coding performance with improvisation

Architect: interactive installations and teaching workshops

Sonic Pi vs DAWs: DAWs are GUI-based; Sonic Pi is code-based

Sonic Pi vs Pure Data: Sonic Pi is Ruby-based, simpler for beginners

Sonic Pi vs Max/MSP: Max is visual; Sonic Pi is text/live coding

Sonic Pi vs TidalCycles: Tidal uses Haskell; Sonic Pi uses Ruby

Sonic Pi vs traditional instruments: Digital live coding, flexible but requires programming

2012 - Initial release by Sam Aaron

2013 - Added live loops and improved GUI

2014 - Expanded sample library and synths

2015 - Raspberry Pi support and education focus

2016 - Effects and MIDI integration improved

2018 - Cross-platform stability and new tutorials

2020 - Updated for modern OS and performance

2022 - Continued community support and workshops

Future - Enhanced live coding features and AI-assisted music

Sonic Pi - live coding music environment

Synth - digital instrument generating sounds

Sample - pre-recorded audio file

Live loop - repeating concurrent musical pattern

Sleep - timing/duration between notes