ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Quantum Algorithm for Joint Melody-Harmony Generation

digital · 2026-04-25

A proof-of-concept quantum architecture applies the Harrow-Hassidim-Lloyd (HHL) algorithm to music generation, encoding melodic preference via Narmour implication-realisation and Krumhansl-Kessler tonal stability. The system matrix represents these music-cognition principles, and its solution vector yields a note-pair distribution. To overcome HHL's output reading limitation, a coherent Fourier harmonic oracle applies chord-transition weights directly to the amplitude vector, enabling a single measurement to select both melody notes and a two-chord progression. A two-note/two-chord block is used to manage exponential state space growth. The work, published on arXiv (2604.20882), demonstrates a novel intersection of quantum computing and music theory.

Key facts

  • HHL algorithm applied to encode melodic preference
  • System matrix encodes Narmour implication-realisation and Krumhansl-Kessler tonal stability
  • Solution vector is a music-cognition-weighted note-pair distribution
  • Coherent Fourier harmonic oracle applies chord-transition weights to HHL amplitude vector
  • Single measurement jointly selects melody notes and two-chord progression
  • Two-note/two-chord block used to contain exponential state space growth
  • Published on arXiv with ID 2604.20882
  • Proof-of-concept quantum architecture for joint melody-harmony generation

Entities

Institutions

  • arXiv

Sources