Spectral composition originated in France in the early 1970s and was later refined at the Institut de Recherche et Coordination Acoustique/Musique. In the creation of Spectral Music, decisions are often informed by a process of computer-based sound spectrum analysis that generates descriptive data of audio content. Using this technique, features of a particular sound can be visualized using a spectrogram, and then composers can use the analysis to craft works based on the analytical information. SICPP performances included a large number of works by Murail, as well as other spectralists, including Gérard Grisey and Joshua Fineberg. Counterfactual by Joshua Fineberg and Lachrymae, by Tristan Murail, were both commissioned and premiered by the Calithumpian Consort as part of SICPP.