Complex FM synthesis for Gen~ / The fundamentals of FM synthesis


Starts on: 21/02/2025 17:00 London time

Membership plan: Going Deeper | Topics: Sound Design

Course overview

Friday 21st February 5pm UK

FM synthesis is an efficient method for generating rich dynamic timbre. However, creating algorithms more complicated than the simple carrier-modulator pair can be challenging. In this course you will learn how to expand on this simple algorithm, you will use phase modulation, feedback networks, filters and nonlinearities and use Gen~’s single sample delay to achieve this. You will learn how to use FM synthesis for sound design and create your own novel patches and algorithms.

We will begin with the fundamentals of FM synthesis. You will discover how Bessel functions to govern the output of a simple FM system and learn how to approximate high-pass filtering and wave-folding. To create more complex algorithms, you will learn the difference between frequency and phase modulation synthesis and why FM is unstable under certain conditions. Using your new knowledge, you will create a feedback algorithm for generating saw and noise waveforms.

What you'll learn

  • Understand the fundamentals of FM synthesis, including Bessel functions, phase modulation, and feedback networks.
  • Design and implement complex FM synthesis algorithms using filters, nonlinearities, and Gen~’s single sample delay.
  • Apply FM synthesis techniques to create unique sound design patches and explore novel timbral possibilities.

Who is this course for?

  • Sound designers and musicians interested in advanced FM synthesis techniques.
  • Max/MSP users looking to expand their knowledge of Gen~ for synthesis.
  • Producers and composers who want to create custom digital instruments and experimental sounds.

Course content

  • Zoom link

Requirements

  • A Zoom account
  • A Internet connection

Course schedule

Meet your instructor

Benjamin Whateley is a developer, computer musician, and lecturer at Goldsmiths. He has used Python in lectures to illustrate digital signal processing concepts and to test and develop artificial reverberation algorithms for use in a machine-learning context. He is experienced with C++ the JUCE framework, and Max. His musical practice is routed in a deep understanding of tools and technology, and he enjoys creating new experimental sound synthesis algorithms for new compositions and performances.

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