Framework (1)




Mads Emil Nielsen: Framework (1)

Framework is a series of graphic scores and recordings by Copenhagen-based musician Mads Emil Nielsen. Framework (1) consists of 14 hand-drawn graphic scores with simple instructions and a recording for each score.

Instructions: These 14 graphic scores may be played by any configuration of instruments and players - the recordings may be of any duration. Some of the scores are linear and may be read from left to right; others are meant as a conceptual inspiration for composition and performance. The balance between these two approaches is to be decided by the interpreter.


Read more




arbitrary01 | December 2014
Book + CD + DL
Edition of 100 copies, risograph / digital print, numbered and signed

Scores, audio and graphic design by Mads Emil Nielsen



FRAMEWORK 1-14





- - - 

Reprint / 3rd edition, 2021
Spiral-bound, hardcover
Scores: Digital print, 240g paper
incl. download code

Available via:
Morr Music Distribution - info

ANOST (DE)
Printed Matter (US)
Art into Life (JP)


shop.arbitraryproject.com / DK:


- - - 

Framework 10 (Remix)
Remixed by Jan Jelinek for the CRXSSINGS compilation, 2019

DL: includes interpretations by Andrea Neumann, Marc Méan


"The internal logic of this is quite specific - in places it reminds me of Gustavo Becerra-Schmidt's sparse Synthi studies, yet considerably more fleshed-out and multi-tracked - Nielsen clearly knows his way around his chosen instrument & the tightly controlled, flitting micro-events that make up each piece's "Orchestra" are extremely well chosen. Nielsen's thought process appears to be at a unique nexus of Cardew-styled pattern-notation experiments & "Live" - or more accurately, "Performed" Electronic Music & this set is definitely one-of-a-kind - plus I haven't seen a hand / home-made edition this thorough since Martijn Hohmann sent over that box of Universaal Kunst editions back in 2010."

- K. F. Whitman / Mimaroglu Music



October 2021