Introduction to instrument design based on Arduino microcontroller
Membership plan: Going Deeper | Topics: Sound Design
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:Â https://www.arduino.cc/Â (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
What you'll learn
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.
Course content
- Recording 1
- Recording 2
Requirements
- An Internet Connection
- Laptop with Arduino software installed (optional)
Meet your 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.
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Could I please have a list of recommended hardware or pictures of what i’ll need for the workshop?
Hi Christine,
It’s all in the workshop description. I would recommend getting an Arduino starter kit if you don’t have any components yet.
Have you got any Music Glitch boxes for sale?
Hi Anthony!
Yes I do!
Please send me a DM or email me via one of the platforms on my linktree: https://linktr.ee/ctrl__freq
Cheers!
Will a recording be available after workshop (if we can’t make the live zoom)?
Yes,
I believe all the events of MHS are recorded.
Sorry I couldn’t make it, I had it my diary as 6pm
Sorry you missed it, Merlin, the timezones can be confusing, indeed. I believe the video recording is now available online and we are talking about organizing more next year so keep your ears open 🙂
Really enjoyed that, learnt a ton and now have the confidence to continue exploring the world of Arduino controllers!!!
Very glad you liked it, Antony!
will the recording for this workshop be available soon?