Music Hackspace

Synthesis with Max: Wavetable
2020-12-09 18:00 - 20:00 (Europe/London) | Online
Level: Intermediate
What you will learn in this course
Cycling 74’s Max / MSP offers a vast playground of programming opportunities to create your own synthesis devices. In this workshop you will build your own synthesis device that utilizes a Wavetable architecture. This workshop aims to provide you with suitable skills to begin exploring Wavetable synthesis devices in the Max MSP environment.
Session Learning Outcomes
By the end of this session you will be able to:

Build Wavetable oscillators via MSP oscillator objects

Explore Wavetable’s spectral sonic properties

Construct modulation sources for Wavetable synthesis devices

Define the sonic timbre and strengths and weakness of Wavetable synthesis

Session Study Topics

MSP oscillator objects for Wavetable

Sonograms, scopes and the frequency domain

LFO, line & envelope properties

Wavetable’s timbre. Strengths and weaknesses

Requirements

A computer and internet connection
A good working knowledge of computer systems
An basic awareness of audio processing
Good familiarity with MSP
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. 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. His specialism is sound design and production techniques such as synthesis and sampling, alongside audio processing and plug-in development.
His credits include collaborations with Placebo, Radiohead, Fad Gadget, Depeche Mode, Moby, Snow Patrol, Mute, Sony BMG, Universal, EMI and Warner Bros.
He holds an MA in Audio Technology from the London College of Music, University of West London, an MSc in Sound & Music Computing at the Center for Digital Music at Queen Mary, University of London and in 2008 became one of the world’s first wave of Ableton Certified Trainers. He is a member of the UK’s Music Producers Guild, holds a PG Cert in Learning & Teaching, is an Affiliate of the Institute for Learning, a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy and until recently was Chairman of the London Committee for the British Section of the Audio Engineering Society.
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.

An Introduction to Markov Chains: Machine Learning in Max/MSP
2020-12-13 18:00 - 20:00 (Europe/London) | Online
Difficulty level: Beginner
Overview
Markov chains are mathematical models that have existed in various forms since the 19th century, which have been used to aid statistical modelling in many real-world contexts, from economics to cruise control in cars. Composers have also found musical uses for Markov Chains, although the implied mathematical knowledge needed to implement them often appears daunting.
In this workshop we will demystify the Markov Chain and make use of the popular ml.star library in Max/MSP to implement Markov Chains for musical composition. This will involve preparing and playing MIDI files into the system (as a form of Machine Learning) and capturing the subsequent output as new MIDI files. By the end of the session you will have the knowledge of how to incorporate Markov Chains into your future compositions at various levels.
Topics

Max
Markov Chains
Machine Learning
Algorithmic Composition

Requirements

You should have a basic understanding of the Max workflow and different data types.
Knowledge of MIDI format and routing to DAWs (Ableton, Logic etc) would be a plus, although Max instruments will be provided.
No prior knowledge of advanced mathematical or machine learning concepts are necessary, the focus will be on musical application.

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.

Synthesis with Max: FM
2020-12-14 18:00 - 20:00 (Europe/London) | Online
Level: Intermediate
What you will learn in this course
Cycling 74’s Max / MSP offers a vast playground of programming opportunities to create your own synthesis devices. In this workshop you will build your own synthesis device that utilizes a FM architecture. This workshop aims to provide you with suitable skills to begin exploring FM synthesis devices in the Max MSP environment.
Session Learning Outcomes
By the end of this session you will be able to:

Build FM carrier and modulators via MSP oscillator objects

Explore FM’s spectral sonic properties

Construct modulation sources for FM synthesis devices

Define the sonic timbre and strengths and weakness of FM synthesis

Session Study Topics

MSP oscillator objects for FM

Sonograms, scopes and the frequency domain

LFO, line & envelope properties

FM’s timbre. Strengths and weaknesses

Requirements

A computer and internet connection
A good working knowledge of computer systems
An basic awareness of audio processing
Good familiarity with MSP
Access to a copy of Max 8 (i.e. trial or full license)

About the workshop leader
Ned Rush aka Duncan Wilson is a musician, producer and performer. He’s known best for his YouTube channel, which features a rich and vast quantity of videos including tutorials, software development, visual art, sound design, internet comedy, and of course music.

Synthesis with Max: Granular
2020-12-16 18:00 - 20:00 (Europe/London) | Online
Level: Intermediate
What you will learn in this course
Cycling 74’s Max / MSP offers a vast playground of programming opportunities to create your own synthesis devices. In this workshop you will build your own synthesis device that utilizes a Granular architecture. This workshop aims to provide you with suitable skills to begin exploring Granular synthesis devices in the Max MSP environment.
Session Learning Outcomes
By the end of this session you will be able to:

Build Granular oscillators via MSP oscillator objects

Explore Granular’s spectral sonic properties

Construct modulation sources for Granular synthesis devices

Define the sonic timbre and strengths and weakness of Granular synthesis

Session Study Topics

MSP oscillator objects for Granular

Sonograms, scopes and the frequency domain

LFO, line & envelope properties

Granular’s timbre. Strengths and weaknesses

Requirements

A computer and internet connection
A good working knowledge of computer systems
An basic awareness of audio processing
Good familiarity with MSP
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. 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. His specialism is sound design and production techniques such as synthesis and sampling, alongside audio processing and plug-in development.
His credits include collaborations with Placebo, Radiohead, Fad Gadget, Depeche Mode, Moby, Snow Patrol, Mute, Sony BMG, Universal, EMI and Warner Bros.
He holds an MA in Audio Technology from the London College of Music, University of West London, an MSc in Sound & Music Computing at the Center for Digital Music at Queen Mary, University of London and in 2008 became one of the world’s first wave of Ableton Certified Trainers. He is a member of the UK’s Music Producers Guild, holds a PG Cert in Learning & Teaching, is an Affiliate of the Institute for Learning, a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy and until recently was Chairman of the London Committee for the British Section of the Audio Engineering Society.
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.

Synthesis with Max: Physical Modelling
2020-12-21 18:00 - 20:00 (Europe/London) | Online
Level: Intermediate
What you will learn in this course
Cycling 74’s Max / MSP offers a vast playground of programming opportunities to create your own synthesis devices. In this workshop you will build your own synthesis device that utilizes a Physical Modelling architecture. This workshop aims to provide you with suitable skills to begin exploring Physical Modelling synthesis devices in the Max MSP environment.
Session Learning Outcomes
By the end of this session you will be able to:

Build Physical Modelling devices via MSP oscillator objects

Explore Physical Modelling spectral sonic properties

Construct modulation sources for Physical Modelling synthesis devices

Define the sonic timbre and strengths and weakness of Physical Modelling synthesis

Session Study Topics

MSP oscillator objects for Physical Modelling

Sonograms, scopes and the frequency domain

LFO, line & envelope properties

Physical Modelling’s timbre. Strengths and weaknesses

Requirements

A computer and internet connection
A good working knowledge of computer systems
An basic awareness of audio processing
Good familiarity with MSP
Access to a copy of Max 8 (i.e. trial or full license)

About the workshop leader
Ned Rush aka Duncan Wilson is a musician, producer and performer. He’s known best for his YouTube channel, which features a rich and vast quantity of videos including tutorials, software development, visual art, sound design, internet comedy, and of course music.

Getting started with Max - LIVE series
2021-01-06 18:00 - 20:00 (Europe/London) | Online
-SOLD OUT- Head over to this link for the February sign ups
Dates:
Session 1: Wednesday 6th January 6pm GMT
Session 2: Wednesday 13th January 6pm GMT
Session 3: Wednesday 20th January 6pm GMT
Session 4: Wednesday 27th January 6pm GMT
Level: Beginners curious about programming
Get started with interactive audio and video, and discover the possibilities of the Max environment. In this series of workshops, you will learn how to manipulate audio, MIDI, samples, oscillators and program your own interactive canvas.
Connect together Max’s building blocks to create unexpected results, and use them in your music productions.
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.
Session overview

Session 1 – Understand the Max environment
Session 2 – Connect building blocks together
Session 3 – Master the user interface
Session 4 – Work with your MIDI devices

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.

Additive Synthesis with Max - LIVE Session
2021-01-07 18:00 - 20:00 (Europe/London) | Online
Date: Thursday 7th January 6pm GMT
Level: Intermediate
Cycling 74’s Max / MSP offers a vast playground of programming opportunities to create your own synthesis devices.
In this workshop you will build your own synthesis device that utilizes an Additive architecture. This workshop aims to provide you with suitable skills to begin exploring Additive synthesis devices in the Max MSP environment.
Session Learning Outcomes
By the end of this session you will be able to:

Build Additive oscillators via MSP oscillator objects

Explore Additive’s spectral sonic properties

Construct modulation sources for Additive synthesis devices

Define the sonic timbre and strengths and weakness of Additive synthesis

Session Study Topics

MSP oscillator objects for Additive

Sonograms, scopes and the frequency domain

LFO, line & envelope properties

Additive’s timbre. Strengths and weaknesses

Requirements

A computer and internet connection

A good working knowledge of computer systems

An basic awareness of audio processing

Good familiarity with MSP

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. 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.

Exploring MC ~ in Max 8 - On demand
2021-01-08 18:00 - 20:00 (Europe/London) | Online
Level: Intermediate to Advanced
Cycling 74’s Max/MSP offers a vast playground of programming opportunities to create your own audio effects. In this workshop you will build your own audio effects that utilizes multi-channel (mc~) for complex audio processes. This workshop aims to provide you with suitable skills to begin exploring the mc~ environment.
Session Learning Outcomes
By the end of this session a successful student will be able to:

Explore the basic concepts of mc~ and how we can apply them to signal processing via delay lines

Build multi-tap delay/resonator/reverb FX using various mc~ objects

Deploy feedback processing using filters such as mc.lores~ and mc.svf~

Apply UI elements to gain access to the various mc~ processes

Applying modulation sources such as mc.cycle~ to create a polyphonic/multi-voice chorus effect.

Session Study Topics

mc concepts and mc.tapin~ and mc.tapout~

Building FX via mc~ objects

UI objects and the mc~ messaging system.

mc~ modulation sources

Requirements

A computer and internet connection

A good working knowledge of computer systems

An basic awareness of audio processing

Good familiarity with MSP

Access to a copy of Max 8 (i.e. trial or full license) or Live Suite (M4L)

About the workshop leader
Ned Rush aka Duncan Wilson is a musician, producer and performer. He’s most likely known best for his YouTube channel, which features a rich and vast quantity of videos including tutorials, software development, visual art, sound design, internet comedy, and of course music.

Interactive video with Jitter - LIVE Session
2021-01-11 18:00 - 20:00 (Europe/London) | Online
Dates:
Session 1 – Monday 11th January 6pm – 8pm GMT
Session 2 – Monday 18th January 6pm – 8pm GMT
Session 3 – Monday 25th January 6pm – 8pm GMT
Session 4 – Monday 1st February 6pm – 8pm GMT
Level: Beginner with a basic knowledge of Max
What you will learn
The workshop is aimed at anyone who would like to learn how to create interactive visuals with the software Max/MSP/Jitter from Cycling74.
You definitely don’t need to be a Max guru to take part in the workshop, although a basic knowledge of the program is required.
We will start from the very basics of working with videos and images in Max, learning how to import footage and live camera stream and how those can be processed in the software. We will then see how to unlock the full control over visuals manipulation and analysis using the GEN environment, which allows us to work on video and images at the pixel level.
We will finally proceed to introduce the OpenGL implementation inside Max, with which we can create 3D graphics and visually satisfying post-processing effects.
A major focus of the workshop will be to include interaction in our patches.
We will use audio streams to control and modify the parameter of our visuals, as well as others interactive inputs like camera video stream.
At the end of the workshop we will have a showreel of the works created by the participants during the four weeks.

Requirements

A computer and internet connection

Topics
Session 1

Workshop holder and participants introduction.
Showreel on what can be achieved using Max/Jitter for the Visuals.
Starting with video in Max: read and play a movie.
Open the webcam video-stream inside Max.
Introduction to the Jitter Matrix.
Create images by filling pixels algorithmically.
Create images using random and noise generators.
Explanation on Perlin Noise.
Drive video-effects using an audio stream.

Session 2:

Introduction to OpenGL in Max.
Apply materials to 3D shapes.
Explanation on light and color in GL in Max.
Control 3D shapes parameters using an audio stream.
Introducing Textures.
Introduction to [jit.gen].
Reviewing simple trigonometry concepts.
Explanation on Vectors.
Create large numbers of 3D shapes using [jit.gen] and [jit.gl.multiple].

Session 3:

Animate arrays of 3D shapes using [jit.gen] and input streams.
Create a simple particle system with [jit.gen].
Procedurally create 2D/3D shapes using [jit.gen] and [jit.gl.mesh]. – Animate procedural shapes using an audio stream.
Create procedural texture using [jit.gl.pix].

Session 4:

Develop audio-reactive visuals using the concepts seen in the previous sessions.
Capture the 3D scene using [jit.gl.node].
Apply post-processing effects to the scene.
Introduction to [jit.gl.pass].
Performance consideration on visuals in Max/Jitter.
Conclusion.

About the workshop leader
Federico Foderaro is an audiovisual composer, teacher and designer for interactive multimedia installations, author of the YouTube channel Amazing Max Stuff.

Advanced Wavetable Synthesis with Max - LIVE Session
2021-01-14 18:00 - 20:00 (Europe/London) | Online
Date: Thursday 14th January 6pm GMT
Level: Intermediate
Cycling 74’s Max / MSP offers a vast playground of programming opportunities to create your own synthesis devices. In this workshop you will build your own synthesis device that utilizes an advanced Wavetable architecture. This workshop aims to provide you with suitable skills to begin exploring advanced Wavetable synthesis devices in the Max MSP environment.
Session Learning Outcomes
By the end of this session a successful student will be able to:

Build advanced Wavetable oscillators via MSP oscillator objects

Explore advanced Wavetable’s spectral sonic properties

Construct modulation sources for Wavetable synthesis devices

Define the sonic timbre and strengths and weakness of Wavetable synthesis

Session Study Topics

Advanced MSP oscillator objects for Wavetable

Sonograms, scopes and the frequency domain

LFO, line & envelope properties

Wavetable’s timbre. Strengths and weaknesses

Requirements

A computer and internet connection

A good working knowledge of computer systems

An basic awareness of audio processing

Good familiarity with MSP

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. 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.

Jitter in Ableton - On demand
2021-01-15 18:00 - 20:00 (Europe/London) | Online
Level: Intermediate
Cycling 74’s Jitter offers a vast playground of programming opportunities to create your own visual devices. In this workshop you will build your own visual device that utilizes a audio signals to manipulate imaginary. This workshop aims to provide you with suitable skills to begin exploring the jitter environment.
Session Learning Outcomes
By the end of this session a successful student will be able to:

Discover the basics of the Jitter framework.

Explore options for analysing audio signals to gather data to control visuals

Deploy objects suitable for making visuals

Apply processes from data acquired from audio signals to control visuals.

Apply UI elements and save into a Max For Live device.

Session Study Topics

The jitter landscape
Audio analysis
Using visual objects
Control visual objects
UI & M4L devices

Requirements

A computer and internet connection

A good working knowledge of computer systems

An basic awareness of audio processing

Good familiarity with MSP

Access to a copy of Max 8 (i.e. trial or full license) or Live Suite (M4L)

About the workshop leader
Ned Rush aka Duncan Wilson is a musician, producer and performer. He’s most likely known best for his YouTube channel, which features a rich and vast quantity of videos including tutorials, software development, visual art, sound design, internet comedy, and of course music.

Max meetup - Europe Edition 1
2021-01-16 15:00 - 17:00 (Europe/London) | Online
FREE
Date: Saturday 16th January – 3pm UK time / 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.
What if I can’t get in?
The number of participants is limited to 100. The main session is live streamed on our YouTube channel for those who cannot attend or want to watch it later.
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.

Topic suggestions but not limited to:

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

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.

Digital Windchimes / An Introduction to Generative Music - On demand
2021-01-17 18:00 - 20:00 (Europe/London) | Online
Level: Beginner
Brian Eno once described a set of chimes being blown in the wind as an example of generative music. Adapting this philosophy of music-making to a digital setting, we can create environments where a series of musical elements can be triggered semi-randomly, akin to the blowing of wind.
In this workshop you will learn to create such a system in Max/MSP, building a simple synthesised bell-like sound with variable timbre which will then be ‘played’ by a loose algorithm that you will construct. This will involve learning a form of subtractive synthesis using a bank of resonant filters, applying variable controls to both its generation and post-processing through reverb and delay, and finally using combinations of random number generators to make digital ‘wind’.
This is just one way of approaching generative music, but by the end of the workshop you will have a better understanding of the underlying axioms and be able to go on to apply them to your own systems.
Topics

Max
Generative Music
Subtractive Synthesis

Requirements

You should be comfortable with the general workflow and data formatting in Max.

Some basic knowledge of frequencies (hz) in relation to music-making would be a plus.

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.

Abstract Composition in Ableton and Max For Live - On demand
2021-01-22 18:00 (Europe/London) | Online
Level: Intermediate
Ableton and Cycling 74’s Max For Live offer a vast playground of programming opportunities to create unique compositions and rich sound designs. In this workshop you will create musical and sonic ideas using abstract techniques of composition. This workshop aims to provide you with suitable skills to begin exploring generative composition and complex sound design.
Session Learning Outcomes
By the end of this session a successful student will be able to:

Discuss the relevance of using generative processes in certain musical contexts.

Explore how we can use these processes to create musical ideas.

Look at ways to capture these ideas to use for future projects.

Exploring various sound design techniques to add colour and shape.

Session Study Topics

Deploy Ableton and Max For Live devices to generate musical content.

Develop this content with various devices such as instruments and effects.

Capture, edit and consolidate the content.

Reflect on the content we created and discuss ways to develop the project further.

Requirements

A computer and internet connection

A good working knowledge of computer systems

A basic awareness of music theory and audio processing

Good familiarity with Ableton and Max For Live

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

About the workshop leader
Ned Rush aka Duncan Wilson is a musician, producer and performer. He’s most likely known best for his YouTube channel, which features a rich and vast quantity of videos including tutorials, software development, visual art, sound design, internet comedy, and of course music.

Max meetup - US Edition 1
2021-01-23 15:00 - 17:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Online
FREE
Date: Saturday 23rd January – 3pm PST / 6pm EST
Level: Open to all levels
Presenters
The meetup will be hosted by Chloe Alexandra Thompson and feature the following presentation
Francisco Botello – Wireless IMU Panning Controller
Tommy Martinez – Spatial Composition in the Frequency Domain
mutant forest – Controlling lights and sound in a performance with max4live
sydney christensen – Idea workshopping: analog synth controlled by MAX information
Chloe Thompson – Intro to ICST Ambisonics Package
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.

Topic suggestions but not limited to:

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

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.

Abstract Performance in Ableton and Max For Live - On demand
2021-01-29 08:00 - 17:00 (Europe/London) | Online
Level: Intermediate
Ableton and Cycling 74’s Max For Live offer a vast playground of opportunities to create unique and rich electronic music performances. In this workshop you will create a performance instrument. This workshop aims to provide you with suitable skills to begin exploring improvised performance in Ableton Live and Max For Live.
Session Learning Outcomes
By the end of this session a successful student will be able to:

Discuss various forms of performance approaches in Ableton and Max For Live plus their advantages and weaknesses.

Explore one approach that gives most flexibility and ease for performing.

Gather assets in Ableton and Max For Live to use in the performance and how to fit them into our chosen approach.

Develop the approach into a complex performance orientated instrument based in the Ableton and Max For Live Environments

Session Study Topics

Deploy Ableton and Max For Live devices to create a musical performance.
Load and organize sounds into Ableton’s Drum Rack.
Enhance the performability of our instrument using midi processes.
Develop the approach using Ableton and Max For Live effects.

Requirements

A computer and internet connection

A good working knowledge of computer systems

A basic awareness of music theory and audio processing

Good familiarity with Ableton and Max For Live

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

A midi controller is desirable.

About the workshop leader
Ned Rush aka Duncan Wilson is a musician, producer and performer. He’s most likely known best for his YouTube channel, which features a rich and vast quantity of videos including tutorials, software development, visual art, sound design, internet comedy, and of course music.

Max meetup - Europe Edition 2
2021-01-30 15:00 - 17:00 (Europe/London) | Online
FREE
Date: Saturday 30th January – 3pm UK time / 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.
Presenters
The session will be hosted by Ned Rush and feature presentations by:
Nick Rothwell, aka Cassiel, Live coding a patch librarian in Clojure
Philip Meyer, Image Convolution with jit.gl.pix
Johan Englund, CV recorder for Mira
And more to be confirmed soon.
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.

Topic suggestions but not limited to:

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

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.

Visual Music Performance with Machine Learning - On demand
2021-02-02 18:00 - 20:00 (Europe/London) | Online
Level: Intermediate
In this workshop you will use openFrameworks to build a real-time audiovisual instrument. You will generate dynamic abstract visuals within openFrameworks and procedural audio using the ofxMaxim addon. You will then learn how to control the audiovisual material by mapping controller input to audio and visual parameters using the ofxRapid Lib add on.
Session Learning Outcomes
By the end of this session a successful student will be able to:

Create generative visual art in openFrameworks

Create procedural audio in openFrameworks using ofxMaxim

Discuss interactive machine learning techniques

Use a neural network to control audiovisual parameters simultaneously in real-time

Session Study Topics

3D primitives and perlin noise

FM synthesis

Regression analysis using multilayer perceptron neural networks

Real-time controller integration

Requirements

A computer and internet connection

A web cam and mic

A Zoom account

Installed version of openFrameworks

Downloaded addons ofxMaxim, ofxRapidLib

Access to MIDI/OSC controller (optional – mouse/trackpad will also suffice)

About the workshop leader
Bryan Dunphy is an audiovisual composer, musician and researcher interested in generative approaches to creating audiovisual art. His work explores the interaction of abstract visual shapes, textures and synthesised sounds. He is interested in exploring strategies for creating, mapping and controlling audiovisual material in real time. He has recently completed his PhD in Arts and Computational Technology at Goldsmiths, University of London.

Max Meetup Americas Edition 1 - LIVE Session
2021-02-03 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Online
Date: Wednesday 3rd of February at 6pm PST / 9pm EST
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

Presenters
Hosted by Chloe Alexandra Thompson and Francisco Botello
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.

Video Synthesis with Vsynth for Max - LIVE Session
2021-02-04 18:00 - 20:00 (Europe/London) | Online
Dates: Thursdays 4th / 11th / 18th / 25th February 2021 6pm GMT
Level: Intermediate +
Overview
In this series of 4 workshops, we’ll look at how to interconnect the different 80 modules that come with Vsynth, exploring video techniques and practices that can create aesthetics associated with the history of the electronic image but also complex patterns founded in some basic functions of nature.
Vsynth is a high level package of modules for Max/Jitter that together make a modular video synthesizer. Its simplicity made it the perfect tool to introduce yourself to video synthesis and image processing. Since It can be connected to other parts of Max, other softwares and hardwares it can also become a really powerful and adaptable video tool for any kind of job.
Here’s what you’ll learn in each workshop:
Workshop 1:
Learn the fundamentals of digital video-synthesis by diving into the different video oscillators, noise generators, mixers, colorizers and keyers. By the end of this session students will be able to build simple custom video-synth patches with presets.

Video oscillators, mixers, colorizers.

Workshop 2:

Modulations (phase, frequency, pulse, hue, among others).

In this workshop we will focus on the concept of modulation so that students can add another level of complexity to their patches. We’ll see the differences between modulating parameters of an image with simple LFOs or with other images. Some of the modulations we’ll cover are Phase, Frequency, Pulse Width, Brightness & HUE.
Workshop 3:

Filters/convolutions and video feedback techniques.

This 3rd workshop is divided in two. In the first half, we’ll go in depth in what actually means low or high frequencies in the image world. We’ll then use Low-pass and High-pass filters/convolutions in different scenarios to see how they affect different images.

In the second, half we’ll go through a lot of different techniques that uses the process of video-feedback. From simple “trails” effects to more complex reaction-diffusion like patterns!

Workshop 4:

Working with scenes and external controllers (audio, midi, arduino).

In this final workshop we’ll see how to bundle in just one file several Vsynth patches/scenes with presets for live situations. We’ll also export a patch as a Max for Live device and go in depth into “external control” in order to successfully control Vsynth parameters with audio, midi or even an Arduino.

Requirements

Intermediate knowledge of Max and Jitter

Have latest Max 8 installed

Basic knowledge of audio-synthesis and/or computer graphics would be useful

About the workshop leader
Kevin Kripper (Buenos Aires, 1991) is a visual artist and indie software developer. He’s worked on projects that link art, technology, education and toolmaking, which have been exhibited and awarded in different art and science festivals. Since 2012 he’s been dedicated to creating digital tools that extend the creative possibilities of visual artists and musicians from all over the world.

Getting started with Max - LIVE Session 3rd Edition(all Thursdays in February)
2021-02-04 18:00 - 20:00 (Europe/London)
This workshop series was added as the other two series planned in January and February were sold out.
LIVE Sessions on Thursdays 4th, 11th, 18th, 25th February 2021, 6pm GMT
Get started with interactive audio and video, and discover the possibilities of the Max environment. In this series of workshops, you will learn how to manipulate audio, MIDI, samples, oscillators and program your own interactive canvas.
Connect together Max’s building blocks to create unexpected results, and use them in your music productions.
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.
Session overview
Session 1 – Understand the Max environment
Session 2 – Connect building blocks together
Session 3 – Master the user interface
Session 4 – Work with your MIDI devices

Taught by Phelan Kane
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.
Requirements:

A computer and internet connection

A good working knowledge of computer systems

Access to a copy of Max 8

Getting started with Max - LIVE Session 2nd Edition
2021-02-06 16:00 - 18:00 (Europe/London) | Online
-SOLD OUT- Head over to to this link for Thursday sign ups Getting started with Max – LIVE Series #3 – Music Hackspace
Session 1: Saturday 6th February 2021
Session 2: Saturday 13th February 2021
Session 3: Saturday 20th February 2021
Session 4: Saturday 27th February 2021
Level: Beginners curious about programming
Getting started with Max – LIVE Session
Get started with interactive audio and video, and discover the possibilities of the Max environment. In this series of workshops, you will learn how to manipulate audio, MIDI, samples, oscillators and program your own interactive canvas.
Connect together Max’s building blocks to create unexpected results, and use them in your music productions.
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.
Session overview
Session 1 – Understand the Max environment
Session 2 – Connect building blocks together
Session 3 – Master the user interface
Session 4 – Work with your MIDI devices

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.

Melody Generation in Max - On demand
2021-02-07 18:00 - 20:00 (Europe/London) | Online
Level: Intermediate
The importance of the melody in traditional musical composition is difficult to understate. Often one of the first components the ear latches onto, being able to write a good melody is something of an artform. Producing basic algorithmically-generated melodies using Max/MSP is quite easy, but in order to produce something more ‘musical’ we must refine the generation process.
In this workshop you will learn some ways of generating more complex melodies in Max. This will involve implementing occasional phrase repeats to balance predictability and surprise, locking in some of the more important rhythmic elements and incorporating planned octave jumps alongside more restricted pitch-based travel.
By the end of the workshop you will have constructed a melody generation patch that can be set to play along with your compositions, with a greater understanding of some of the ways in which we can sculpt melody in Max.
Topics

Max/MSP
Algorithmic Composition
Melody

Requirements

You should be comfortable with the general workflow and data formatting in Max.

Knowledge of MIDI format and routing to DAWs (Ableton, Logic etc) would be a plus, although Max instruments will be provided.

You should have some basic knowledge of music theory: chords, scales, modes etc.

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.

Immersive AV Composition -On demand / 2 Sessions
2021-02-09 18:00 - 20:00 (Europe/London) | Online
Level: Advanced
These workshops will introduce you to the ImmersAV toolkit. The toolkit brings together Csound and OpenGL shaders to provide a native C++ environment where you can create abstract audiovisual art. You will learn how to generate material and map parameters using ImmersAV’s Studio() class. You will also learn how to render your work on a SteamVR compatible headset using OpenVR. Your fully immersive creations will then become interactive using integrated machine learning through the rapidLib library.
Session Learning Outcomes
By the end of this session a successful student will be able to:

Setup and use the ImmersAV toolkit

Discuss techniques for rendering material on VR headsets

Implement the Csound API within a C++ application

Create mixed raymarched and raster based graphics

Create an interactive visual scene using a single fragment shader

Generate the mandelbulb fractal

Generate procedural audio using Csound

Map controller position and rotation to audiovisual parameters using machine learning

Session Study Topics

Native C++ development for VR

VR rendering techniques

Csound API integration

Real-time graphics rendering techniques

GLSL shaders

3D fractals

Audio synthesis

Machine learning

Requirements

A computer and internet connection

A web cam and mic

A Zoom account

Cloned copy of the ImmersAV toolkit plus dependencies

VR headset capable of connecting to SteamVR

About the workshop leader
Bryan Dunphy is an audiovisual composer, musician and researcher interested in generative approaches to creating audiovisual art in performance and immersive contexts. His work explores the interaction of abstract visual shapes, textures and synthesised sounds. He is interested in exploring strategies for creating, mapping and controlling audiovisual material in real time. He has recently completed his PhD in Arts and Computational Technology at Goldsmiths, University of London.

Max meetup Europe 10th Feb
2021-02-10 18:00 - 20:00 (Europe/London) | Online
Date: Wednesday 10th 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.

Max meetup Americas 17th Feb
2021-02-17 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Online
Date: Wednesday 17th of February at 6pm PST / 9pm EST
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.

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.
