Music Hackspace

Getting started with cheat codes 2: A sample playground for monome norns - On demand
2021-02-21 17:00 - 19:00 (Europe/London) | Online
Level: Beginner
Cheat codes 2 is a sample playground built for monome norns to explore live and pre-recorded audio. It extends traditional slicing and looping workflows to create playful music-making experiences with exciting results. This workshop will introduce you to the script including recording audio and loading clips, building loops and slices, making adjustments to timbre and tonality, and exploring different methods for triggering and playback (with or without any external controllers).
Session Learning Outcomes
By the end of this session a student will be able to successfully:

Navigate the cheat codes interface with ease and purpose
Employ and extend looping paradigms
Deconstruct and manipulate audio recordings
Create a compelling playground for further exploration

Session Study Topics

The anatomy of cheat codes
Loading samples and recording live audio into norns
Slicing audio into pads as recallable loops or one-shots
Making timbral and tonal changes to each pad

Requirements

A computer and internet connection

A web cam and mic

A Zoom account

Access to a norns or norns shield running software 201202 or later

Familiarity with the basic process of connecting your norns to WiFi

Access to speakers or an audio interface to share sounds

External controllers will not be required or used for most of the workshop. For the last section, recommended controllers include: monome grid, USB MIDI keyboard or sequencer (eg. KeyStep or OP-Z), a recent Launchpad (X, Pro, or Mini mk3), or MIDI Fighter Twister

About the workshop leader
Dan Derks is a creative technologist and improviser with a passion for community. He is the host of Sound + Process, a podcast about the artists of lines (https://llllllll.co), and he builds digital tools for monome norns and Max for Live.

Max meetup Europe 24th Feb
2021-02-24 18:00 - 20:00 (Europe/London) | Online
Date: Wednesday 24th of February at 6pm GMT
Level: Open to all levels
Overview
Join the Max meetup to share ideas and learn with other artists, coders and performers. Showcase your patches, pair with others to learn together, get help for a school assignment, or discover new things.
The meetup runs via Zoom. The main session features short presentations from Max users. Breakout rooms are created on the spot on specific topics, and you can request a new topic at any time.
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.

Requirements

A computer and internet connection

Ready to present your work?
Everyone is welcome to propose a presentation. Just fill in this short form and you’ll be put on the agenda on a first come first served basis.
Presentations should take no more than 5 minutes with 5 minutes Q&A and we’ll have up to 5 presentations at each meetup.
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.

Going further with cheat codes 2: A sample playground for norns - On demand
2021-02-28 17:00 - 19:00 (Europe/London) | Online
Level: Beginner
Cheat codes 2 is a sample playground built for monome norns to explore live and pre-recorded audio. It extends traditional slicing and looping workflows to create playful music-making experiences with exciting results. This workshop will help uncover extended techniques for working with the script, including external controllers, creating dynamic soundscapes with the delay, recording patterns, remixing with the arpeggiator, and incorporating randomization to keep your sessions fresh.
Session Learning Outcomes
By the end of this session a student will be able to successfully:

Create full sample-based compositions with three parts
Employ methods for quickly generating exciting clock-synced or asynchronous improvisations
Explore multiple sampling paradigms to find new musical territories

Session Study Topics

Structuring compositions with both clock-synced and asynchronous looping/sampling methods
Creating a base from which to improvise
Incorporating external controllers to extend your workflow

Requirements

A computer and internet connection

A web cam and mic

A Zoom account

Access to a norns or norns shield running software 201202 or later

Familiarity with the basic process of connecting your norns to WiFi

Familiarity with the basic functions of cheat codes 2

Access to speakers or an audio interface to share sounds

Access to any of the following controllers: monome grid, monome arc, USB MIDI keyboard or sequencer (eg. KeyStep or OP-Z), a recent Launchpad (X, Pro, or Mini mk3), USB MIDI slider bank (eg. 16n), MIDI Fighter Twister, or Max for Live

About the workshop leader
Dan Derks is a creative technologist and improviser with a passion for community. He is the host of Sound + Process, a podcast about the artists of lines (https://llllllll.co), and he builds digital tools for monome norns and Max for Live.

Getting started with Max: March Series
2021-03-03 18:00 - 20:00 (Europe/London) | Online
Dates & times:
Session 1: Wednesday 3rd March – 6pm GMT / 7pm CET / 10am PST / 1pm EST
Session 2: Wednesday 10th March – 6pm GMT / 7pm CET / 10am PST / 1pm EST
Session 3: Wednesday 17th March – 6pm GMT / 7pm CET / 11am PST* / 2pm EST*
Session 4: Wednesday 24th March – 6pm GMT / 7pm CET / 11am PST* / 2pm EST*
*Note PST & EST time-zones ONLY: Wednesdays 17th & 24th March time-zone change. Instead of 10AM PST & 1PM PST, there is a +1hr change. So the sessions begin at 11AM PST & 2PM EST
Overview
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.

Max meetup 6th March - Americas Edition
2021-03-06 18:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Online
Date & Time: Saturday 6th March 3pm PST / 6pm EST
Level: Open to all levels
Hosted by Chloe Alexandra Thompson
With presentations by:
Crystal Cortez – Wearable tech: 9dof headband synth: wearable tech and other microcontrollers and the programs made to play them in Max
Christi Denton -Networked Online Laptop Ensemble: a patch that allows the Portland State University Laptop Ensemble to remotely rehearse and perform pieces.
Nadir B -Trajectory Score Library: A demonstration patch of the Trajectory Score Library : https://cycling74.com/projects/trajectory-score-library

Overview
Join the Max meetup to share ideas and learn with other artists, coders and performers. Showcase your patches, pair with others to learn together, get help for a school assignment, or discover new things.
The meetup runs via Zoom. The main session features short presentations from Max users. Breakout rooms are created on the spot on specific topics, and you can request a new topic at any time.
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.
Ready to present your work?
Everyone is welcome to propose a presentation. Just fill in this short form and you’ll be put on the agenda on a first come first served basis.
Presentations should take no more than 5 minutes with 5 minutes Q&A and we’ll have up to 5 presentations at each meetup.
List of presenters will be announced before each event.

Requirements

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.

Exploring gesture control with Gliss & Glover - On demand
2021-03-09 18:00 - 20:00 (Europe/London) | Online
Level: Beginner with some music software experience
Computers these days give us the power to create almost any sound imaginable, so now we have to question ourselves – how do we interact with our computers physically? In this workshop you will explore what it’s like to control those sounds and effects with your movement by learning about Glover – a mapping application for converting movement to MIDI or OSC.
Session Study Topics

Mapping movement to MIDI in Glover

Training postures in Gliss

Mapping from Glover to a DAW

Considering what “good” movements are to control sound

Requirements

Download the free Gliss app from the Apple app store: iOs only

Download free trial of Glover via mimugloves.com/glover

A DAW or a piece of hardware that can receive MIDI or OSC – Ableton Live recommended as Chagall will be most proficient at supporting you with that but others work too

A microphone routed into your computer if you’d like to experiment with manipulating your voice with Gliss

More info: https://mimugloves.com/gliss/
About the workshop leader
Chagall is an Amsterdam-based singer, producer and performer known for her use of the MiMU Gloves to control music & reactive visuals. With performances at South by Southwest, Ableton Loop, TEDx and many more Chagall is one of the most experienced users of the technology. She is also the UX designer for MiMU’s Glover & Gliss.

Live Coding Sound with TidalCycles - On demand
2021-03-10 18:00 - 20:00 (Europe/London) | Online
Level: Beginner
Live coding is the act of manipulating algorithms in real time to change an ongoing artistic process, like music or visuals. In this workshop, we will begin with an introduction to live coding, highlighting various technologies and artists, before learning how to live code sound using TidalCycles. This workshop aims to provide an introduction to live coding to encourage others to incorporate live coding technologies and techniques into their practice.
Session Learning Outcomes
By the end of this session, a successful student will be able to:

Create a variety of patterns

Use functions to vary sequences

Add effects to manipulate and process sounds

Identify various technologies and practitioners of live coding

Session Study Topics

An introduction to various live coding technologies and artists:

Sonic Pi

TidalCycles

FoxDot

Hydra

How to create various patterns and sequences

Functions for varying sequences

How to add effects to sound

Requirements

A computer and internet connection

A web cam and mic

A Zoom account

TidalCycles
Software to download:

Atom

SuperCollider

Atom-tidalcycles

Note: To run TidalCycles on your machine, you will need to install software in addition to the applications/packages listed above. Follow these instructions to see how to do this on your machine.
To use an online version of TidalCycles (*no installation required):
Visit the Estuary Live Coding Server. Select ‘MiniTidal’ as your language of choice.
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 currently teaches at Hunter College and Harvestworks and is part of Cycling 74’s Max Certified Trainer Program.

Simple Sequencer with Tone.js - On demand
2021-03-11 18:00 - 20:00 (Europe/London) | Online
Level: Beginner
Tone.js is a Web Audio framework for creating interactive music in the browser. The framework is built with language that is familiar to musicians, producers and programmers. In this workshop, you will use CodePen to learn the basics of Tone.js, how to make a sound, manipulate its characteristics and create a sequencer. You will also be introduced to basics of JavaScript!
Session Learning Outcomes
By the end of this session a successful student will be able to:

Feel confident using Tone.js

Use various synths from the framework and manipulate sounds

Build a sequencer using Tone.js and basic JavaScript

Session Study Topics

What web frameworks are and why we need Tone.js

Understand the concept of time in web

JavaScript Fundamentals

Requirements

A computer and internet connection

A webcam and mic

A Zoom account

A CodePen account (free)

About the workshop leader
Purvi Trivedi is a London based web developer with years of experience in music technology & ux research.
She currently works as a Frontend Engineer at Potato, an award-winning digital product studio that works with the likes of Google, PepsiCo, Mozilla, the BBC and NatWest.
She has co-produced KALA, an album that explores human emotions through the design of everyday sounds.

Creating dynamic drum patterns in Ableton Live - On demand
2021-03-12 18:00 - 20:00 (Europe/London) | Online
Level: Beginner
Programmed rhythms can lack the expression of real players. This is particularly evident when sequencing drums. In this workshop you will learn to program a variety of drum patterns, utilising a range of expressive techniques in Ableton Live. This workshop aims to provide you with transferable skills to enable you to breathe life into your MIDI programming.
Session Learning Outcomes
By the end of this session a successful student will be able to:

Program at least one drum pattern with variations;

Understand groove and learn how to implement it;

Use MIDI devices (such as random and velocity and MaxforLive) to humanise parts;

Utilise the Convert to MIDI function to analyse existing patterns and provide inspiration.

Session Study Topics

Drum sequencing in session view

Applying groove and swing

MIDI effects, LFO device

Converting audio to MIDI

Requirements

A computer and internet connection

A web cam and mic

A Zoom account

Ableton Live 11 Suite – if not, participants should be advised to download the trial version

About the workshop leader
Mel is a London based music producer, vocalist and educator.
She spends most of her time teaching people how to make music with Ableton Live and Push. When she’s not doing any of the above, she makes educational content and helps music teachers and schools integrate technology into their classrooms. She is particularly interested in training and supporting female and non-binary people to succeed in the music world.

Max meetup 13th March - Europe Edition
2021-03-13 15:00 - 17:00 (Europe/London) | Online
Dates & Time: Saturday 13th March 3pm GMT / 4pm CET
Level: Open to all levels
Overview
Join the Max meetup to share ideas and learn with other artists, coders and performers. Showcase your patches, pair with others to learn together, get help for a school assignment, or discover new things.
The meetup runs via Zoom. The main session features short presentations from Max users. Breakout rooms are created on the spot on specific topics, and you can request a new topic at any time.
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.
Ready to present your work?
Everyone is welcome to propose a presentation. Just fill in this short form and you’ll be put on the agenda on a first come first served basis.
Presentations should take no more than 5 minutes with 5 minutes Q&A and we’ll have up to 5 presentations at each meetup.
List of presenters will be announced before each event.

Requirements

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.

Racks, Variations and Creative Processing in Live 11 - On demand
2021-03-13 16:00 - 18:00 (Europe/London) | Online
Level: Intermediate Ableton Live users
Live 11 offers a wide range of creative effects and updates that can help create unique sounds.
In this intermediate level workshop you will learn how to build your own unique Drum Rack using random foley sounds, apply processing, get creative with Macro Variations and also explore some of Live 11’s new creative effects. This workshop aims to provide you with creative strategies to take your ideas to the next level.
Session Learning Outcomes
By the end of this session a successful student will be able to:

Build at least one custom Rack

Layer sounds and use Racks inside Racks

Develop a deeper understanding of the key and updated features of Racks

Utilize creative FX processing

Session Study Topics

Building a Drum Rack out of random Foley sounds

Racks inside Racks, layering foley sounds with Max for Live Drum Synths

Macro Variations and other key features of Racks

FX Processing techniques and an overview of some of the new devices in Live11, such as Spectral Resonator and Hybrid Reverb

Requirements

A computer and internet connection

A web cam and mic

A Zoom account

Ableton Live 11 Suite – if not, participants should be advised to download the trial version

About the workshop leader
Anna is a London based producer, engineer, vocalist and educator.
Anna is currently working as a university lecturer in London, teaching music production, creating educational content and working on her next releases as ANNA DISCLAIM.

Generative Composition with Cryptography in Max - On demand
2021-03-15 18:00 - 20:00 (Europe/London) | Online
Level: Intermediate
This workshop aims to provide you with suitable skills to incorporate cryptographic techniques as composition tools within the Max environment.
Session Learning Outcomes
By the end of this session a successful student will be able to:
● Apply a cryptographic method for data mapping;
● Explore realtime adaptable audio looper;
● Construct a time based generative decision maker;
● Build an cryptography based looper.
Session Study Topics
● [Coll] and [Zl] combinations for data storage and parsing;
● [Sfplay~], [sfinfo~] and @seek
iterations to create modular and
random loops;
● [expr] for loop-adaptable equations.
● [if] for more complex decision-making operations

Requirements

A computer and internet connection
A web cam and mic
A Zoom account
Access to a copy of Max 8 (i.e. trial or full license)

About the workshop leader
James Wilkie is a UK-based Sound Artist and composer.
He is currently creating his own work and collaborating with cross disciplinary artists in dance, film, and fine art, producing immersive AV experiences.

Building phaser audio effects in Gen - LIVE Session
2021-03-16 18:00 - 20:00 (Europe/London) | Online
Date & Time: Tuesday 16th March 2021 6pm GMT / 7pm CET / 10am PST / 1pm EST
Level: Advanced
In this workshop, you will explore tools and techniques to create phaser audio effect devices in Gen via Max. Explore all pass filters, feedback loops, signal routing and LFOs via a series of exercises. This workshop aims to enrich your musical output via the application of a self-made audio effects and novel sound design techniques. Gen provides highly optimised audio processes that matches C++ and is the ideal technology for improving complex Max patches and optimising CPU.
Session Learning Outcomes
By the end of this session a successful student will be able to:

Identify key Gen objects for audio phasor effects devices

Build all pass filter devices with feedback networks

Configure Gen parameters and properties

Add LFO networks for filter modulation

Session Study Topics

Gen objects

All pass filters

Gen variables and parameters

LFO modulation sources

Requirements

A computer and internet connection

A web cam and mic

A Zoom account

Access to a copy of Max 8 (i.e. trial or full license)

About the workshop leader
Phelan Kane is a Berlin & London based music producer, engineer, artist, developer and educator.
He is currently running the electronic music record label Meta Junction Recordings and the audio software development company Meta Function. He has released the Max for Live device synth Wave Junction in partnership with Sonicstate.

Getting started with Max - for beginners
2021-03-17 08:00 - 17:00 (Europe/London) | Online
Level: Beginners curious about programming
Get started with interactive audio and MIDI, and discover the possibilities of the Max environment. In this series of recorded videos, 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 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.
This on demand content aims to enable you to work with Max confidently on your own.
Learning outcomes:

Understand the Max environment

Connect building blocks together and work with data

Master the user interface

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.

Building Graphical User Interfaces in M4L and Max - On demand
2021-03-18 18:00 - 20:00 (Europe/London) | Online
Level: Intermediate
MaxforLive allows users to develop their own devices for use in composition, performance and beyond. Creating a graphical user interface that complements the device is one of the crucial development stages that can give a device its personality. In this workshop you will learn how to create a custom user interface for a M4L device, including a native Ableton Live style to a completely personalised theme.
Session Learning Outcomes
By the end of this session a successful student will be able to:

Identify different styles of user interface

Explore and configure Live/Max UI objects

Create custom dials and sliders

Construct UI systems that synchronise with Ableton Live

Create pop-up UI windows

Session Study Topics

UI objects and their properties

User designed GUI objects

Translating Ableton Live’s theme system

Window properties and embedded visual patches

Requirements

A computer and internet connection

A web cam and mic

A Zoom account

Access to a copy of Live 10/11 & Max 8 (i.e. trial or full license)

About the workshop leader
Mark Towers is an Ableton Certified Trainer and a lecturer in music technology at Leicester College. He specialises in Max for Live, as well as working with Isotonik Studios to create unique and creative devices for music production and performance such as the Arcade Series.

Max meetup 20th March - Americas Edition
2021-03-20 18:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Online
Date & Time: Saturday 20th March 3pm PST / 6pm EST
Level: Open to all levels

Hosted by Chloe Alexandra & Francisco Botello

With presentations by:

Philip Meyer – Seven Spaces patch
Joaquin Jimenez: Machine Learning on Max with ML.* to create Dub Music
Shomit Barua – Creative Coding: Exercises in Circumnavigation
Overview
Join the Max meetup to share ideas and learn with other artists, coders and performers. Showcase your patches, pair with others to learn together, get help for a school assignment, or discover new things.
The meetup runs via Zoom. The main session features short presentations from Max users. Breakout rooms are created on the spot on specific topics, and you can request a new topic at any time.
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.
Ready to present your work?
Everyone is welcome to propose a presentation. Just fill in this short form and you’ll be put on the agenda on a first come first served basis.
Presentations should take no more than 5 minutes with 5 minutes Q&A and we’ll have up to 5 presentations at each meetup.
List of presenters will be announced before each event.

Requirements

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.

Understanding Indian rhythm through simple algorithms - On demand
2021-03-25 18:00 - 20:00 (Europe/London) | Online
Level: All Max users
South Indian Carnatic music is home to a huge array of fascinating rhythms, composed from algorithms. Rooted in maths and aesthetics, Carnatic music has many facets that can be applied to computer music. In this workshop you will be given an introduction to this tradition, and provided with the opportunity to observe, create, and hack various patches that demonstrate some of these ideas.
Session Learning Outcomes
By the end of this session a successful student will be able to:

Be capable of reciting a simple rhythmic konnakol phrase

Be capable of conceiving simple rhythmic algorithms

Be capable of translating these concepts into simple Max patches

Understand South Indian rhythmic concepts & terminology such as Tala, Jhati, and Nadai

Session Study Topics

Learning a konnakol phrase

Understanding Tala cycles

Understanding Jhati and Nadai

Translating rhythmic algorithms into code

Requirements

A computer and internet connection

A webcam and mic

A Zoom account

Access to a copy of Max 8 (i.e. trial or full license)

About the workshop leader
Dom Aversano is a Valencian and London based composer and percussionist with a particular interest in combining ideas from the South Indian classical and Western music traditions. He has performed internationally as a percussionist, and produced award-winning installation work that has been exhibited in Canada, Italy, Greece, Australia, and the UK.
For a decade Dom has studied South Indian Carnatic music in London and in Chennai. He has studied with mridangam virtuoso Sri Balachandar, the resident percussionist of The Bhavan music centre in London, as well as shorter periods with Somashekar Jois and M N Hariharan.

Max meetup 27th March - Europe Edition
2021-03-27 15:00 - 17:00 (Europe/London) | Online
Dates & Time: Saturday 27th March 3pm GMT / 4pm CET
Level: Open to all levels
Overview
Join the Max meetup to share ideas and learn with other artists, coders and performers. Showcase your patches, pair with others to learn together, get help for a school assignment, or discover new things.
The meetup runs via Zoom. The main session features short presentations from Max users. Breakout rooms are created on the spot on specific topics, and you can request a new topic at any time.
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.
Ready to present your work?
Everyone is welcome to propose a presentation. Just fill in this short form and you’ll be put on the agenda on a first come first served basis.
Presentations should take no more than 5 minutes with 5 minutes Q&A and we’ll have up to 5 presentations at each meetup.
List of presenters will be announced before each event.

Requirements

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.

Live Eurorack DIY build workshop: Make a CONTROL module with Tom Whitwell of Music Thing Modular - LIVE Session
2021-03-27 19:00 - 21:00 (Europe/London) | Online
Sign up here: CMusic Thing Modular – ‘Control’ Online Workshop with Tom Whitwell – Thonk – DIY Synthesizer Kits & Components
Date & Time: Saturday 27th March 7pm GMT / 8pm CET / 12 midday PST / 3pm EST
Level: Beginner – Intermediate (basic soldering experience required)
Eurorack modular synthesizers can be expensive and bewildering.
This workshop will help you develop confidence to build DIY modules yourself, unlocking a huge range of satisfying new opportunities.
Before we start building, Tom will talk briefly about the process of module design, touching on ideas, usability, prototyping, electronics and tools, and answer any questions.
Together, we’ll build a brand new module called Control. It has four big knobs, is 18hp, and gives detailed fine-grained control over any parameters in a modular synth.
Tom wrote about the development process for Control here:
https://medium.com/music-thing-modular-notes/make-knob-twiddling-great-again-47065a346c2
Session Learning Outcomes
By the end of this session, a successful student will be able to:

Confidently solder a through-hole electronic PCB

Assemble a fairly complex Eurorack synth module, ensuring pots and switches are correctly aligned.

Have a simple understanding of the process of designing and prototyping music hardware.

Requirements
Required materials:

This is a through-hole kit. All SMD parts are pre-soldered.

A fine tip soldering iron – ideally with temperature control.

Fine rosin core solder (1mm or less in diameter). Leaded solder is generally easier to work with, particularly for beginners.

Side cutter pliers

Required workspace:

From running many workshops in the past, we’ve found that a good workspace is as important as the right equipment:

Space: You don’t need much, just a clear patch of desk, with a surface that won’t be damaged by the odd drop of solder. A silicone soldering mat is nice but absolutely not essential.

Light: Enough light to see small components and check their placement. A desk lamp is good.

Sight: Everyone’s vision is different, but have whatever you need to see small objects clearly – glasses or a magnifier.

Ventilation: soldering with rosin/flux creates small amounts of smoke and fumes, so work in a room with some ventilation – a window you can open, or just a desk fan to blow the fumes away.

If you have any questions about equipment or workspace, don’t hesitate to email tom@musicthing.co.uk
Required tech:

A computer and internet connection

A web cam and mic

A Zoom account

About the workshop leader
Tom Whitwell designs Music Thing Modular electronic musical instruments from a shed in Herne Hill, London. Tom has been designing devices and writing about music for many years, developing hugely popular DIY modules including: Turing Machine, Radio Music and Mikrophonie.

Non-linear strategies for composing with Live & M4L - On demand
2021-03-29 18:00 - 20:00 (Europe/London) | Online
Level: Intermediate – Advanced
The creative path is not a straight line. In this workshop, you will develop a workflow focused on experimental approaches utilizing randomization, stochastic methods, polymeters, polyrhythms and more using Live and M4L. Experimental audio processing and non-linear mixing activities will be included in the compositional process to create unique sound qualities as well as overcoming creative blocks.
Session Learning Outcomes
By the end of this session a successful student will be able to:

Examine various forms of (non)linear compositional strategies

Identify approaches that provide musical contingency

Select Ableton’s techniques & M4L devices to use in the writing process

Design generative methods for complex compositional systems based on the Ableton and M4L environments

Session Study Topics

Randomization & Stochastic methods

Polymeters & polyrhythms

Racks, Audio & MIDI FXs chains

Max4Live LFO, Shaper, Buffer shuffler, Multimap pro

Requirements

A computer and internet connection

A web cam and mic

A Zoom account

Access to a copy of Ableton Live 10 Suite, or Ableton Live 10 with a Max For Live license

About the workshop leader
Simone Tanda is a musician, producer, multi-media artist, tech consultant, and educator.
Based across London & Berlin he is currently creating music for his own project, as well as multidisciplinary artists, film, and commercials.

Getting confident with Max - On demand
2021-04-06 18:00 - 20:00 (Europe/London) | Online
Level: Beginner
Cycling 74’s Max / MSP offers a vast playground of programming opportunities to create your own sound design and multimedia applications. In this workshop you will build a patch using items from the Max tool bar such as Beap and Vizzie as well using media from your own collection, plus explore ways to open up, reverse engineer and modify existing resources within the Max.
Series Learning Outcomes
By the end of this series a successful student will be able to:

Confidently navigate the Max environment to quickly gain access to content and learning resources.

Deploy resources into a patch.

Connect and explore these resources to develop ideas for sound and media design, composition and performance.

Navigate the help file system and reverse engineer existing content in the Max application.

Session Study Topics

The Tools available in a Max such as Beap and Vizzie modules.

Playlists and drag and drop media.

Bpatches, prototypes and snippets.

The helpfile system.

Requirements

A computer and internet connection

Access to a copy of Max 8 (i.e. trial or full license)

About the workshop leader
Duncan Wilson (aka Ned Rush) is a musician, producer and content creator based in the UK. Whilst perhaps largely known for his Youtube channel, he has also released music independently as well developing content for Isotonik Studios.

Getting started with Max - April Series
2021-04-07 18:00 - 20:00 (Europe/London) | Online
Dates & Times:
Session 1: Wednesday 7th April 10am LA / 1pm NYC / 6pm UK / 7pm Berlin
Session 2: Wednesday 14th April 10am LA / 1pm NYC / 6pm UK / 7pm Berlin
Session 3: Wednesday 21st April 10am LA / 1pm NYC / 6pm UK / 7pm Berlin
Session 4: Wednesday 28th April 10am LA / 1pm NYC / 6pm UK / 7pm 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.

Generative Audio Looping in Max & Max For Live - LIVE Session
2021-04-08 18:00 - 20:00 (Europe/London) | Online
Level: Beginner +
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Brian Eno used arranged tape loops for composition in the 1970 Discreet Music and Music For Airports. This M4L device takes those ideas and uses them for a simple but effective loop playback device. In this workshop you’ll learn how to work with audio file playback objects like buffer~ & groove~ along with send & receive concepts and sub-patches.
By the end of this session a successful student will be able to:

Build a basic audio file playback device.

Explore signal routings using send & return objects.

Use sub-patch encapsulations in M4L.

Describe the signal flow in a M4L device.

Session Study Topics

Max objects for audio playback.

Audio signal flow.

Encapsulations in Max.

Requirements

A computer and internet connection

A web cam and mic

A Zoom account

Access to a copy of Max 8 (i.e. trial or full license)

About the workshop leader
Johan Englund is a music producer based in St Leonards East Sussex and an educator for Tileyard Education (London) and Bimm (London). He has been engaged as a professional in the music industry since the early 1990s and as a lecturer since 2005.

Introduction to beat detection and audio-reactive visuals in TouchDesigner - On demand
2021-04-09 18:00 - 20:00 (Europe/London) | Online
Level: Beginner
TouchDesigner is a powerful tool for creating live performances, installations, real time visuals and complex digital systems. In this workshop you’ll learn the basic functioning of three node-types and how to use them to analyse audio, use the data to manipulate graphics and how to organize and navigate your TouchDesigner network.
Session Learning Outcomes
By the end of this session a successful student will be able to:

Input audio into TouchDesigner

Extract relevant data from input sources

Use data to manipulate graphics

Create simple generative visuals

Navigate the TouchDesigner network

Session Study Topics

Audio input sources

Beat detection (frequency analysis, timesclicing etc.)

Creation and manipulation of generative visuals

Network organisation

Requirements

A computer with internet connection

A web cam and mic

A three button mouse or to configure Apple Track Pad appropriately

TouchDesigner (free version suffices https://derivative.ca/download)

If your 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.

Generative Music Tools: Turing Machine - LIVE Session
2021-04-11 18:00 - 20:00 (Europe/London) | Online
Level: Intermediate
There are a broad array of techniques musicians can use to generate music in Max. One such process involves taking inspiration from Alan Turing’s early work on proto-computers, in particular the notion of a tape with data being displayed on it.
This workshop will provide you with the information to construct such a generative device, a ‘Turing Machine’, to supplement your compositional practice.
Session Learning Outcomes:
By the end of this session you will be able to:

Understand the fundamentals of a Turing Machine in a musical context.

Patch together a generative process using randomisation and counters.

Build a functional UI to tweak different aspects of the generative process in real time.

Use the finished device to both generate music through MIDI and control broader parameters of software instruments.

Session Study Topics

Turing machines, generative music.

Random processes: drunken walks and probability.

Visual design in Max

Composition through MIDI and software instrument manipulation.

Requirements

A computer and internet connection
Access to a copy of Max 7 or 8 (i.e. trial or full license)

About the workshop leader
Samuel Pearce-Davies is a composer, performer, music programmer and Max hacker living in Cornwall, UK.
With a classical music background, it was his introduction to Max/MSP during undergraduate studies at Falmouth University that sparked Sam’s passion for music programming and algorithmic composition.
Going on to complete a Research Masters in computer music, Sam is now studying a PhD at Plymouth University in music-focused AI.

Real-time Audio Reactive Visual Programming in Max - On demand
2021-04-15 18:00 - 20:00 (Europe/London) | Online
Level: Informative for all levels of experience
One of the best aspects of Max MSP is it’s ability to do real-time visual rendering. In this workshop we’re going to learn how to program our own custom visual designs as well as different techniques to make them respond to audio in real-time. Through this workshop we’ll explore different aspects of how Jitter and OpenGL operate within the Max domain along with a look into many incredible max objects. We’ll also touch on some signal processing techniques and how to patch it all together.
Session Learning Outcomes
By the end of this session a successful student will be able to:

Program their own visual animations in Max MSP

Have a basic understanding of Jitter, OpenGL and the differences between them.

Learn several techniques to make the visuals responsive to audio in real-time

Think of the design aesthetics from a new perspective.

Session Study Topics

Intro to jitter and OpenGL + key objects

Real Time Audio Responsive Techniques

Creating the Visuals

Design Thinking and Philosophy

Requirements

A computer and internet connection

Access to a copy of Max 8 (i.e. trial or full license)

About the workshop leader
Andrew Robinson is an Arizona based interactive experience designer, artist, and educator.
Andrew has been designing real-time audio responsive animations for live music performances, music videos, and more for the past 6 years and has had the opportunity to work with some incredible musical talent. He also received his master’s degree in interactive experience design from Arizona State University in 2019 and now works at Synthesis Center as an educator and researcher for experience design.

Gravity Synth Masterclass with Leon Trimble - LIVE Session
2021-04-16 17:00 - 19:00 (Europe/London) | Online
Don’t forget to also sign up for the Live AV Performance by Leon Trimble followed shortly after this Masterclass – Live AV Performance by Leon Trimble – Music Hackspace

Masterclass Date & Time: Friday 16th April 5pm UK
The Gravity Synth is a musical instrument combining the instrumentation used to detect gravitational waves, and a modular synthesiser. The experimentation with the scientific and musical equipment has been a collaboration between researchers at the Institute for Gravitational Wave Astronomy at University of Birmingham and audiovisual artist Leon Trimble. This is a parallel journey exploring the similarities between the processes of art and science. Leon Trimble has been working on the gravity synth since 2016 when, having sat down next to Dr.Hannah Middleton (Gravitational wave data analyst). From that moment on they started meeting and Leon & Hannah planned how the sound of a Michelson Interferometer (IFO) could be shaped into a performance. As time went on and the interferometer bedded into the performance, Leon upgraded parts of the modular synthesiser to accompany the IFO and Aaron refined components of the IFO to more accurately make sound.
Link: https://gravitysynth.tumblr.com/
Supported using public funding by Arts Council England

Requirements

A computer and internet connection
A Zoom account

Live AV Performance by Leon Trimble
2021-04-16 20:00 - 22:00 (Europe/London)
Watch the Live AV Performance by Leon Trimble with a 360 camera. Navigate the scene with the arrows at the top left of the video.

TouchDesigner meetup 17th April - Audio visualisation
2021-04-17 17:00 - 19:00 (Europe/London) | Online
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:
Name: Ian MacLachlan
Title: Terraforming with MIDI
Bio: Bjarne Jensen is an experimental audio/visual artist from the Detroit area with an interest in creating interactive systems for spatial transformation.
Name: Jean-François Renaud
Title: Generating MIDI messages to synchronize sound and visual effect in TouchDesigner
Description : Instead of using the audio analysis strategy to affect the rendering, we are focusing on building small generative machines using the basic properties of notes (pitch, velocity), and we look at different means to manage triggering. At the end, the goal is still to merge and to make alive what you hear and what you see.
Bio: Interactive media professor at École des médias, UQAM, Montréal
Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/morpholux
Name: Bileam Tschepe
Title: algorhythm – a first look into my software
Description: I’ve been working on a tool for audiovisual live performances and I’d like to share its current state and see if people are interested in collaborating and working with me
Bio: 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.
YouTube: Bileam Tschepe

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

Max meetup 17th April - Americas Edition
2021-04-17 18:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Online
Date & Time: Saturday 17th April 3pm LA / 6pm NYC
Level: Open to all levels
Join the Max meetup to share ideas and learn with other artists, coders and performers. Showcase your patches, pair with others to learn together, get help for a school assignment, or discover new things.
The meetup runs via Zoom. The main session features short presentations from Max 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 Max in live performances.
Hosted by: Chloe Alexandra Thompson
With presentations by:
Marcus Price: Granular Synthesis
Presentation on how he use granular synthesis/auto-scrubbing and a variety of custom tools (spacialization helpers, effects and feedback/delay lines) for live performances.
Michele Zaccagnini: Nonlinear Sequencer
Michele will present a max package he designed which is now distributed in the package manager. It covers the use of sequencers in nonlinear fashion, i.e. the time function of the sequencer is distorted to create tempo oscillations. The overall tempo-predictability and synchronization robustness of the sequencer is nonetheless still present in the Nonlinear Sequencer. Plus these set of objects allow to “measure” the regularity/irregularity of a rhythmic event on an imaginary grid.
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXMQVkLE-bKdA7cycXECtCQ
https://michelezaccagnini.blog/.
João Cabral: Topic: Hardware presentation
João will present a bunch of devices that were made using M4L that work as a 1 dimensional Visual Synth that were used to create LED animations.

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.
Ready to present your work at a future meetup?
Everyone is welcome to propose a presentation. Just fill in this short form and you’ll be put on the agenda on a first come first served basis.
Presentations should take no more than 5 minutes with 5 minutes Q&A and we’ll have up to 5 presentations at each meetup.
List of presenters will be updated and announced before each event.
Topic suggestions but not limited to:

MIDI
Jitter
Signal processing
Sequencing
Hardware
OSC
Algorithmic composition
Package manager modules

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.
