Live coding elevates programming to a central performance act by modifying algorithms in real time in front of an audience

Live coding is a practice in which musicians perform by writing and modifying code in an interpreted environment, typically with their screen projected for the audience. Rather than hiding computation behind a finished instrument or pre-composed sequence, live coding makes the algorithm itself the performance medium. The challenge is to think algorithmically at performance pace, type fast enough to keep an audience engaged, and recover from errors publicly. Screen projection addresses the problem of opacity: without visible code, an observer may not know whether the performer is playing or merely pressing play. Live coders also perform in groups to distribute cognitive load and provide cover. TOPLAP (Temporary Organisation for the Promotion of Live Algorithm Programming) has promoted and documented this practice.

Examples

SuperCollider, Tidal Cycles, Sonic Pi, Strudel, and Hydra are all tools used for live coding performance. Algorave is the subculture of live coding dance music.

Assessment

Why do live coders typically project their screens during performance? What is the central difference between live coding and using a pre-programmed laptop instrument?