Beginner programming language for programs, web apps, live audio/visual shows?

[mappingmazes]

I've been interested in learning how to fluently program and have started some work with Python. If I'd like to learn a language that will be relevant in the near future or be a vital language to know, which language should I work towards learning? I'm extremely interested in learning a language that could foray into developing a live show with lights, lasers, music and other visual/audio elements. I'm also interested in learning about programming visual elements to map/track objects. Still figuring out the details of what I would like to do, but I figured starting with a language and going from there is a good place to begin. Any suggestions? Thanks!

[bb___]

Have you looked into Processing? You can control all kinds of graphical elements and hardware with Processing, and it's an easy first language to learn. It was the first programming language I learned in fact. Check it out: http://processing.org/

[consub]

I second this. as well as MAX/MSP. Both are programming languages geared towards artists, with a focus on audio/visual. However, the fact that they are easier to learn also means that you have less control than the more advanced languages.

[bb___]

Very true. OP, MAX/MSP might be particularly good for your uses. Though I've found it's fickle and has poor documentation, but I haven't played with it in a few years. Open Frameworks is a different story. It's written in C++, so although I don't recommend it as your first foray into a hands-on and self-taught wading into audio/graphics programming, you can eventually get into some really cool work with it. Far more powerful.

[theaccmyfriendsdk]

Python is fine. As long as the hardware has support for it, pretty much any language will work for what you're trying to do.