Today we are seeing a return to modular synthesis in sound design, studio composition, performance, and live improvisation. Why this interest now? The answer is simple: modular thinking implies a fusion and balance between sounds and audio signals and the control signals of the module.
As sound and the sources of control become compatible, notions of format and incompatibility disappear. The boundary between traditional interfaces of control (keyboard, mouse, trackpad, MIDI, sensors, data sonification, files, formats, etc.) and electronic sound sources (oscillators, synthesizers, sound samples, microphones) becomes entirely blurred, giving way to an ecology in which anything can connect to anything and lead to unexpected, dynamic results.
In this intensive workshop, participants will use modular synthesis to create works. The workshop will focus on the following areas:
- Modular thinking in general, using a computer or external hardware
- Understanding and learning the concepts of composition and improvisation: exploring the control signals in depth (rhythmic possibilities, envelopes, gestures, microscopic and macroscopic time scales)
- Defining a gesture or movement and using modular synthesis to create it
- Exploring the control combinations to generate complexity and subtlety
- Bridging the gap between the experience of digital-computer creation and analog-material practice
- Exploring modular synthesis with affordable tools: small kits and extensions, using software tools
- Modularity as a practice of encounter: combining systems, using external data, sensors or online data, sonifying reality, etc.
The workshop will conclude with a series of concerts improvised by the participants, individually or as a group.
> The workshop will be offered in French, both instructors are bilingual and will answer questions in English.
> Please bring your modular systems and tell us if the other participants can work on those equipment under the supervision of the instructors.
Prerequisites
- Be a professional artist, creator or cultural worker;
- Knowledge of the principles and hands-on composition experience of modular synthesis is an asset;
- Be a self-employed worker or a salaried employee in an enterprise not subject to 1 % Training Investment*;
- Attend every workshop session.
Number of participants: maximum 8
Registration period: Tuesday to Friday, until November 9
Call or email the New Media Lab: 514-844-3250, ext. 230 or lab@oboro.net.
Cost: $150 (taxes included)
*NEW! Two spots are now available for employees of companies that are subject to the 1% Law. Please contact us for more details.
POLICY
Reservation / Payment
Reservations can be done by phone or email. Full payment must be made for reservations to be valid. You can pay by credit card (Visa or MasterCard), cheque or in cash. Registration to a workshop is not transferable.
Cancellation / Refund
OBORO does not refund registration fees except in case of illness (with a medical note) or of absolute necessity. In such cases, registration fees are transferable to another workshop or service offered by the New Media Lab.
Workshop Cancellation
OBORO reserves the right to cancel workshops at any time and without advance notice. In this case, registration fees are completely refunded.