Sinusoidal Run Rhythm – Print

A sinusoidal run rhythm is created by adding cosine functions in phase in integer ratios. Compared to corresponding notated rhythms, their peaks are shifted in time and dynamics, and they exhibit a physicality that is absent in discretely controlled rhythms. Sinusoidal run rhythm thus defines rhythm as a wave, clearly distinguishing itself from the conventional rhythm theory of the European musical tradition. This opens up an inexhaustible variety of enchantingly physical music.

The volume captures this aesthetic diversity through numerous illustrations of the sinusoidal run rhythm. On the one hand, it offers the opportunity to delve into the manifestations of an expanded concept of rhythm and to lose oneself in the beauty of individual examples—following the model of field guides for identifying beetles or butterflies. On the other hand, the theory encourages us to blur the boundaries between conception and performance, score and interpretation, human and machine, and to seek applications in music-making, music analysis, psychoacoustics, or philosophy.

Steffen Krebber is a composer, sound artist, and researcher. His work spans computer music, instrumental and electroacoustic composition, sound art, research, language, epistemology, sociology, and media art.

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The 2026 dissertation based on this book is available as an open-access e-book here through the publisher.