Introduction to instrument design based on Arduino microcontroller hero

Course template / hosted architecture draft

Introduction to instrument design based on Arduino microcontroller

In this hands-on workshop, you’ll dive into the world of DIY electronics and Arduino. We’ll start with an introduction to the Arduino platform, its history, and practical uses. Then, you’ll […]

Level

Level 1

Duration

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Format

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Course overview

In this hands-on workshop, you'll dive into the world of DIY electronics and Arduino. We'll start with an introduction to the Arduino platform, its history, and practical uses. Then, you'll learn the basics of DIY electronics, including components, tools, and skills like reading schematics, prototyping, and soldering. Once familiar with the Arduino IDE, you'll build a synthesiser prototype using a breadboard and basic components. Along the way, you'll troubleshoot common issues and explore inspiring Arduino projects. By the end, you'll have a functional instrument and learn to tweak its sounds through code—plus have fun with like-minded makers! Skills covered include DIY electronics, Arduino programming, and more. Materials required: Arduino board Laptop with Arduino IDE: https://www.arduino.cc/ (make sure it works with your system) Breadboard Jumper Wires 2 Potentiometers (between 1-100k) that are compatible with breadboard 2 Buttons/switches – compatible with breadboard (mini buttons work fine) 2 Light sensors Mini speaker or contact mic or jack output

Who is this course for?

  • • Musicians and hobbyists interested in learning Arduino, DIY electronics, and building custom projects like synthesizers.
  • • Makers and tech enthusiasts looking to expand their skills in prototyping, programming, and hands-on electronics experimentation.

Requirements

  • • An Internet Connection
  • • Laptop with Arduino software installed (optional)

Course content

Session 1

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Session materials

Instructors

Kacper Ziemianin

Kacper Ziemianin

Instructor

Kacper Ziemianin a.k.a. ‘Ctrl Freq’ has background in classical music and a lot of adventures in modern sound and music. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Sonic Arts from Middlsex University, London and Master’s degree in Sonology at the Royal Conservatory in The Hague, the Netherlands. Instrument maker, sound designer, circuit bender, vagabond, improviser, producer, audio-hacker, nomad, radio presenter, activist, workshop leader, squatter. His audio installations and sounds have been shown/played in numerous places around, as well as outside Europe. Currently based in the Hague, NL working as a freelance instrument designer and performer as well as teacher of DIY electronics. His latest endeavor, the ‘LightSeq’ has received funding from Stimuleringsfonds NL and won an award at an international electronic music festival ‘Radical dB’ in Zaragoza, Spain.

Frequently asked questions