Getting started with Max – September Series
Dates & Times:
Session 1: Wednesday 15th September at 6pm UK / 7pm Berlin / 10am LA / 1pm NYC
Session 2: Wednesday 22nd September at 6pm UK / 7pm Berlin / 10am LA / 1pm NYC
Session 3: Wednesday 29th September at 6pm UK / 7pm Berlin / 10am LA / 1pm NYC
Session 4: Wednesday 6th October at 6pm UK / 7pm Berlin / 10am LA / 1pm NYC
Level: Beginners curious about programming
Get started with interactive audio and MIDI, and discover the possibilities of the Max environment. In this series of workshops, you will learn how to manipulate audio, MIDI, virtual instruments and program your own interactive canvas.
Connect together Max’s building blocks to create unexpected results, and use them in your music productions. Through a series of guided exercises you will engage in the pragmatic creation of a basic MIDI sequencer device that features a wealth of musical manipulation options.
Learn from guided examples and live interactions with teachers and other participants.
This series of online workshops aims to enable you to work with Max confidently on your own.
Sessions overview
Session 1 – Understand the Max environment
Session 2 – Connect building blocks together and work with data
Session 3 – Master the user interface
Session 4 – Work with your MIDI instruments
Requirements
-
- A computer and internet connection
- A good working knowledge of computer systems
- Access to a copy of Max 8
About the workshop leader
Phelan Kane is a Berlin & London based music producer, engineer, artist, developer and educator. For over twenty years he has been active in both the music industry and the contemporary music education sector, with a focus on electronic music and alternative bands.
He specialises in sound design and production techniques such as synthesis and sampling, alongside audio processing and plug-in development.
He is currently running the electronic music record label Meta Junction Recordings and the audio software development company Meta Function, which specialize in Max for Live devices releasing the M4L synth Wave Junction in partnership with Sonicstate.
TouchDesigner meetup – August 28th
Date & Time: Saturday 28th August 4pm UK / 5pm Berlin / 8am LA / 11am NYC
Level: Open to all levels
Meetups are a great way to meet and be inspired by the TouchDesigner community.
What to expect?
The meetup runs via Zoom, the main session will be 2-hours in length with an additional hour open to the community for collaboration and sharing in breakout rooms.
This session focuses on The Future of TouchDesigner and New Media Art and will feature presentations from expert practitioners.
The meetup will be hosed by Bileam Tschepe, the theme for this meetup is ‘The Future Of Interactive Art’ and we’re pleased to confirm the lineup of speakers:
Scottie J. Fox – The Live-Edited Experience
- Bio: Scottie is a real-time mixed visual artist and software developer from Boston, USA – specializing in improv, moment arts, dance and augmented reality
- Description: An exploration into the possibilities and frontier of real time illusion of performance arts using mixed reality of both real and digital effects to create a showcase of what is now available at the user level, where previously only achievable in post studio production
- To find out more: ://twitter.com/ScottieFoxTTV & https://www.twitch.tv/scottie_fox/
Karyn Nakamura – Interactive Experiments With Kinect
- Bio: Karyn is 20 year old from Tokyo currently studying design at MIT! She mostly works in Touchdesigner or JavaScript and is a big fan of early net art, post hardcore music, and modern Japanese history
- Description: Showing some examples of interactive experiments using motion tracking with Kinect as well as my personal future plans with the Kinect and other rising technology
- To find out more: https://www.instagram.com/frog_spit_simulation/
Elburz Sorkhabi – Your Career In Interactive & Immersive Media
- Bio: Elburz Sorkhabi is the co-founder of The Interactive & Immersive HQ and one of the top TouchDesigner developers in the world. He brings insight he has used to lead clients including Google, Kanye West, Netflix, TIFF, Burj Khalifa, Nike, Under Armour, and many more around the world from Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, Toronto, Montreal, Dubai, Shanghai, Singapore, Tokyo, and Paris
- Description: One of the hardest parts of making the art you dream about is actually having a career that allows you to be creative and dedicate yourself full-time to your craft. In this talk, Elburz breaks down common barriers to building a career by providing actionable advice and answering common questions about how to get gigs and make a living doing the work you love
- To find out more:
Following these presentations breakout rooms are created where you can:
-
Talk to the presenters and ask questions
-
Join a room on topics of your choice
-
Show other participants your projects, ask for help, or help others out
-
Collaborate with others
-
Meet peers in the chill-out breakout room
Requirements
- A computer and internet connection
- A Zoom account
Berlin Code of Conduct
We ask all participants to read and follow the Berlin Code of Conduct and contribute to creating a welcoming environment for everyone.
Supported by TouchDesigner
Getting Started with TouchDesigner – September series
Dates & Times: Thursdays: 9th / 16th / 23rd / 30th September 6pm UK / 7pm Berlin / 10am LA / 1pm NYC
Length: 2-hours each session
Level: Beginners curious about creating immersive visuals with TouchDesigner
TouchDesigner is a powerful tool for creating live performances, installations, real time visuals and complex digital systems. In this series of workshops you’ll learn the basic functioning of TD’s node-based workflow and how to use them to create media, use the data to manipulate content and how to organize and navigate your TouchDesigner networks.
Series Learning Outcomes
By the end of this series a successful student will be able to create content by:
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Becoming familiar with the User Interface
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Exploring TouchDesigner’s building blocks
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Constructing dynamic visual effects
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Applying basic audio reactivity and other techniques
See below for all 4 weeks
Series Study Topics
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TouchDesigner User Interface and patching
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How to use building blocks (operators)
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Controlling parameters for dynamic visuals
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Audio reactivity and visual effects techniques
See below for all 4 weeks
Session 1
Topics
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Overview, Interface, Mouse & Shortcuts
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Operator Families & Operator Structure
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TOPs – Texture Operators
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CHOPs – Channel Operators
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this session a successful student will be able to:
1: Navigate the TouchDesigner User Interface and utilise mouse and shortcuts controls
2: Become familiar with operator families and their structure
3: Construct basic networks via TOPs
4: Export CHOPs to create dynamic networks
Session 2
Topics
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SOPs, MATs and Rendering
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DATs
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COMPs and Network Structure
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Palette & Additional Info
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this session a successful student will be able to:
1: Build rendering networks via SOPs and MATs
2: Utilise and apply data via DAT operators
3: Construct custom networks via COMPs
4: Locate examples and info from resources such as the Palette
Session 3
Topics
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Audio Overview
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Instancing
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Building a Project 1
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this session a successful student will be able to:
1: Utilise audio CHOPs within a network
2: Apply audio CHOPs as modulation sources
3: Build basic Instancing networks
4: Begin to construct a bespoke self directed project
Project Overview
During Session 3 and 4, you will build a self directed and bespoke project in TouchDesigner. You will be supported by the workshop leader and the teaching assistants during these sessions. You can incorporate any techniques you have learnt from the workshop series into the project.
Examples include:
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TOPs driven from CHOPs
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Dynamic / generative art
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Audio reactive content
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Basic Instancing network
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3D geometry via SOPs
In session 4 you can share your project to your peers in your Zoom break-out room. You will also be asked to provide feedback on your peers project’s.
Session 4
Topics
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Building a Project 2
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this session a successful student will be able to:
1: Work independently, with support, within the TD environment
2: Apply various techniques from the workshop series to construct dynamic networks
3: Continue to construct a bespoke self directed project
4: Share their work with peers and provide feedback to peers
Requirements
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A computer with internet connection
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A web cam and mic
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A Zoom account
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A three button mouse or to configure Apple Track Pad appropriately
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TouchDesigner (free version suffices https://derivative.ca/download)
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If you’re on Mac please check TouchDesigner can run on your system (i.e. has basic GPU requirements such as Intel HD4000 or better)
About the workshop leader
Bileam Tschepe aka elekktronaut is a Berlin based artist and educator who creates audio-reactive, interactive and organic digital artworks, systems and installations in TouchDesigner, collaborating with and teaching people worldwide
Interaction with Arduino & TouchDesigner – LIVE Session / Workshop series
Dates & Times: Tuesdays: 14th / 21st / 28th Sept + 5th Oct – 6pm UK / 7pm Berlin / 10am LA / 1pm NYC
2-hours each session
!Limited capacity – only 25 spaces available!
Pricing excluding kit, components to be purchased separately – see kit list in requirements section
Level: Beginner – Intermediate
Create immersive interactive experiences. Combine Arduino with TouchDesigner, a powerful node based programming environment with endless possibilities for interactive installation, marketing activations, generative art, multimedia performance, and more! In this course you will learn very basic electronics, introductory Arduino skills, and the fundamental concepts of interaction using sensors and inputs to control video in TouchDesigner.
By the end of this workshop series you will be able to:
- Create Arduino based electronic prototypes
- Control video in TouchDesigner with sensors and your own custom hardware interfaces
- Utilize TouchDesigner to map software interactions to physical electronic systems
- Apply interaction design concepts for developing installations and brand activations
Series Study Topics
- TouchDesigner to control Digital and PWM output
- Switches and Digital inputs mapped to states in TouchDesigner
- Analog sensors, smoothing data and creating meaningful interactions
- Strengths, weaknesses and limitations of hardware and software.
Requirements
- A computer with Internet connection
- Arduino / Electronics kit
- 3-button mouse
- TouchDesigner and Arduino software
About the workshop leader
Kyle Duffield is a Toronto based Interactive Experience Design Professional who creates immersive interactive installations and brand activations. He is also known for his affiliation with the studio space Electric Perfume. His decade-plus expertise spans audio, video, creative coding, electronics, and interaction design with the intent of bringing play and multisensory spectacle to public spaces. As an Educator, he has facilitated interactive media courses and workshops with various institutions, galleries, and universities across Canada, Shanghai, the UK, and online. Currently, Kyle is a Cycling 74 Max Certified Trainer, and is focusing on creating unforgettable technological experiences.
Getting started with Max – August Series
Dates & Times: Starting Friday 6th August 6pm UK / 7pm Berlin / 10am LA / 1pm NYC
Level: Beginners curious about programming
Get started with interactive audio and MIDI, and discover the possibilities of the Max environment. In this series of workshops, you will learn how to manipulate audio, MIDI, virtual instruments and program your own interactive canvas.
Connect together Max’s building blocks to create unexpected results, and use them in your music productions. Through a series of guided exercises you will engage in the pragmatic creation of a basic MIDI sequencer device that features a wealth of musical manipulation options.
Learn from guided examples and live interactions with teachers and other participants.
This series of online workshops aims to enable you to work with Max confidently on your own.
Sessions overview
Session 1 – Understand the Max environment (Friday 6th August at 6pm UK / 7pm Berlin / 10am LA / 1pm NYC)
Session 2 – Connect building blocks together and work with data (Friday 13th August at 6pm UK / 7pm Berlin / 10am LA / 1pm NYC)
Session 3 – Master the user interface (Friday 20th August at 6pm UK / 7pm Berlin / 10am LA / 1pm NYC)
Session 4 – Work with your MIDI instruments (Friday 27th August at 6pm UK / 7pm Berlin / 10am LA / 1pm NYC)
Requirements
-
A computer and internet connection
-
A good working knowledge of computer systems
-
Access to a copy of Max 8
-
A Zoom account
About the workshop leader
Melody Loveless is an artist, creative technologist, and educator based in Brooklyn, NYC. Her work ranges from live coding performance, generative sound installations, multisensory performance, and more. She has taught at various institutes across NYC including NYU, the New School, Hunter College, and Harvestworks and is part of Cycling 74’s Max Certified Trainer Program.
Fundamentals of sound design with Pigments 3
Date & Time: Thursday 7th October – 6pm UK / 7pm Berlin / 10am LA / 1pm NYC
Length: 2-hours live workshop via Zoom
Level: Beginner to intermediate
Arturia’s Pigments 3 Virtual Instrument is a highly versatile tool which is used in many professional studios, it also presents many opportunities for deep learning and creation at a beginner level.
Through this workshop that is well based in theory, but prioritizing practice, play and investigation, students will work to build new presets from scratch and learn how to manipulate existing sounds. We will utilize built-in Analog, Wavetable, Harmony, and Sample / Granular based sonic elements across Pigments 3 sound engines. We will also work with controlling synthesis settings with ADSR envelopes, using Macro’s, EQ’s and more.
Session Learning Outcomes
By the end of this session a successful student will be able to:
- Build custom presets for sound design and music
- Explore Pigments 3 creatively and independently
- Be empowered by the built-in Pigments 3 troubleshooting and tutorial tools.
Session Study Topics
- Intro – in app resources – demos
- Virtual Synthesis / Digital Signal Processing
- Granular Synthesis
- Dynamic uses of macro control
- Creative uses of EQ
Requirements:
- A computer and internet connection
- A mic (built in or external)
- Webcam (optional)
- A Zoom account
- Access to Pigments 3 (i.e. trial or full license)
About the workshop leader
Chloe Alexandra Thompson is a Cree, Canadian interdisciplinary artist and touring sound designer whose artistic works and workshops have been featured in galleries and performance spaces domestically and internationally. Using audio programming softwares, Thompson creates unique sonic environments and interactive performance tools.
She is presently based in Brooklyn, NY, USA.
TouchDesigner meetup 15th May
Date & Time: Saturday 15th May 5pm UK / 6pm Berlin / 9am LA / 12pm NYC
Meetup length 2-hours
Level: Open to all levels
Meetups are a great way to meet and be inspired by the TouchDesigner community.
What to expect?
The meetup runs via Zoom and is 2-hours in length.
This session focuses on Typography and Graphic Design and features presentations from:
1. Jash: 36 Days Of Type
Jash is a Canadian/American photographer, videographer, and motion graphics artist. Jash recently challenged himself to participate in the annual 36 days of type challenge; Creating a generative composition in touch designer every day for 36 days. https://justjash.com/
2. Caroline Reize: Design for New Media: An introduction to design and its application in new media
Caroline is a German-born media artist who makes experimental visuals based on minimalism. Her work focuses on drawing inner emotion to create an image. The shapes and colors that are obtained from this allow the viewer a new experience. To develop a sufficient multi-sensory experience, she utilizes various forms of media, collaborates with sound artists, and works on narrowing the gap between art and technology. http://carolinereize.com/
3. Hugues Kir: The “Frog Effect”
A benevolent approach to graphic design in TouchDesigner
https://derivative.ca/p/62998 @smooth_isfast
Following these presentations breakout rooms are created where you can:
-
Talk to the presenters and ask questions
-
Join a room on topics of your choice
-
Show other participants your projects, ask for help, or help others out
-
Meet peers in the chill-out breakout room
Requirements
- A computer and internet connection
- A Zoom account
Berlin Code of Conduct
We ask all participants to read and follow the Berlin Code of Conduct and contribute to creating a welcoming environment for everyone.
Supported by
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Livestream: Nestup – A Language for Musical Rhythms
Date & Time: Monday 10th May 6pm UK / 7pm Berlin / 10am LA / 1pm NYC
In this livestreamed interview, we will speak with Sam Tarakajian and Alex Van Gils, who’ve built a fantastic live-coding environment that works within an Ableton Live device called Nestup.
The programs we use to make music have a lot of implicit decisions baked into them, especially in their graphical interfaces. Nestup began as a thought experiment, trying to see if embedding a text editor inside Live could open up new creative possibilities. We think the answer is that yes, text can work well alongside a piano roll and a traditional musical score, as a concise and expressive way to define complex rhythms.
With Nestup, you define for yourself any size of rhythmic unit, any sort of rhythmic subdivision, and with any scaling factor. These language features open your rhythm programming up to musical ideas such as metric modulation, nested tuplets, complex polyrhythm, and more. Rhythms from musical styles which would have been prohibitively difficult to program in a DAW can therefore be rendered in MIDI, such as rhythms from Armenian folk musics or “new complexity” compositions.
Overview of speakers
Sam is a Brooklyn based developer and creative coder. Sam works for Cycling ‘74 and develops independent projects at Cutelab NYC. Alex is a composer, performer, and generative video artist based in Brooklyn.
Sam and Alex have been making art with music and code together for over 10 years, beginning with a composition for double bass and Nintendo Wiimote while undergraduates and continuing to include electroacoustic compositions, live AR performance art, installation art, Max4Live devices, and now Nestup, the domain-specific language for musical rhythms.
Where to watch?
YouTube –
Getting started with Max: May Series
Date & Time:
Session 1: Wednesday 5th May 7pm Indian Standard Time / 2.30pm UK / 3.30pm Berlin
Session 2: Wednesday 12th May 7pm Indian Standard Time / 2.30pm UK / 3.30pm Berlin
Session 3: Wednesday 19th 7pm Indian Standard Time / 2.30pm UK / 3.30pm Berlin
Session 4: Wednesday 26th May 7pm Indian Standard Time / 2.30pm UK / 3.30pm Berlin
Level: Beginners curious about programming
Get started with interactive audio and MIDI, and discover the possibilities of the Max environment. In this series of workshops, you will learn how to manipulate audio, MIDI, virtual instruments and program your own interactive canvas.
Connect together Max’s building blocks to create unexpected results, and use them in your music productions. Through a series of guided exercises you will engage in the pragmatic creation of a basic MIDI sequencer device that features a wealth of musical manipulation options.
Learn from guided examples and live interactions with teachers and other participants.
This series of online workshops aims to enable you to work with Max confidently on your own.
Sessions overview
Session 1 – Understand the Max environment
Session 2 – Connect building blocks together and work with data
Session 3 – Master the user interface
Session 4 – Work with your MIDI instruments
Requirements
-
A computer and internet connection
-
A good working knowledge of computer systems
-
Access to a copy of Max 8
About the workshop leader
Phelan Kane is a Berlin & London based music producer, engineer, artist, developer and educator. For over twenty years he has been active in both the music industry and the contemporary music education sector, with a focus on electronic music and alternative bands.
He specialises in sound design and production techniques such as synthesis and sampling, alongside audio processing and plug-in development.
He is currently running the electronic music record label Meta Junction Recordings and the audio software development company Meta Function, which specialize in Max for Live devices releasing the M4L synth Wave Junction in partnership with Sonicstate.
TouchDesigner meetup 17th April – Audio visualisation
Date & Time: Saturday 17th April 5pm – 7pm UK / 6pm – 8pm Berlin
Level: Open to all levels
Join the online meetup for expert talks on audio visualisation. Meet and be inspired by the TouchDesigner community.
The meetup runs via Zoom. The main session features short presentations from TouchDesigner users. Breakout rooms are created on the spot on specific topics, and you can request a new topic at any time.
The theme for this session is Audio visualisation, hosted by Bileam Tschepe with presentations from the community.
In the breakout rooms, you can share your screen to show other participants something you’re working on, ask for help, or help someone else.
Presenters:
Requirements
- A Zoom account
- A computer and internet connection
Berlin Code of Conduct
We ask all participants to read and follow the Berlin Code of Conduct and contribute to creating a welcoming environment for everyone.
Supported by
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