Where: Online, buy a kit from the North Coast Modular Collective Etsy store ( http://ncmc.link/AfrorackAvalanche ) to get the URL to join in.
About
Got a soldering iron and used it a couple of times but wanted to get into synthesizer DIY (SDIY)? Want to help support AFRORACK’s mission of providing children and young adults of color access to modular synthesizers and sound design tools? In this live online build-along session, you’ll put together a basic synthesizer while learning how it and its components work and the related synthesis concepts. No prior experience with electronics or synthesizers needed. We just recommend that you have done some soldering in the past. You can either build along with us (we hope you do!) or just watch and build on your own later.
Build-along Online Event
On April 25th at 1pm EST, you can log in to see a streaming video (URL supplied after purchase of kit). From there we will provide you with an introduction to the kit, the electronics and synthesis concepts behind it, and some basics for approaching SDIY. Then, we will slowly step through the build process over streaming video, one step at a time. We’ll be able to answer basic questions over chat while you build.
The Kit
We’ll be using a special, limited edition AFRORACK branded version of the North Coast Modular Collective “Mt. Brighton Avalanche Oscillator,” a community developed and open-source kit, designed specifically for learning. Its low part count, low complexity, and low cost is coupled with a transparency in design and function that makes it easier to understand and describe what is happening with the electricity and sound. When complete, you’ll have a simple, standalone battery operated synthesizer with a single knob for changing the pitch of the sound that you can plug headphones into, or other music gear. The kit comes with all the parts you’ll need to build it. You’ll have to supply the tools and solder to assemble it.
ABOUT: Got a soldering iron and used it a couple times but wanted to get into synthesizer DIY (SDIY)?
In this live online build-along session, you’ll put together a basic synthesizer while learning how it and its components work and the related synthesis concepts.
No prior experience with electronics or synthesizers needed. We just recommend that you have done some soldering in the past.
You can either build along with us (we hope you do!) or just watch and build on your own later.
BUILD-ALONG ONLINE EVENT: On the day of the online build-along event, you can log in to see a streaming video (URL supplied after purchase of kit).
From there we will provide you with an introduction to the kit, the electronics and synthesis concepts behind it, and some basics for approaching SDIY.
Then, we will slowly step through the build process over streaming video, one step at a time.
We’ll be able to answer basic questions over chat while you build.
THE KIT: We’ll be using the North Coast Modular Collective’s “Mt. Brighton Avalanche Oscillator,” a community developed and open-source kit, designed specifically for learning.
Its low part count, low complexity, and low cost is coupled with a transparency in design and function that makes it easier to understand and describe what is happening with the electricity and sound.
When complete, you’ll have a simple, standalone battery operated synthesizer with a single knob for changing the pitch of the sound that you can plug headphones into, or other music gear.
The kit comes with all the parts you’ll need to build it. You’ll have to supply the tools and solder to assemble it.
**A portion of the proceeds will go toward supporting local maker space, All Hands Active, and local artists who depend on gigs for income.
Due to COVID19 this workshop has been postponed. We will update with a new date in the future. Those who registered will be contacted directly.
When: Postponed
Where: All Hands Active, 255 E. Liberty St. Suite 225 – Ann Arbor, MI 48104 (right by Afternoon Delight, head downstairs), a wheelchair accessible venue*
Registration: Free/no registration needed to come and hang out. But, registration required to build. You can sign up for a build slot here:
About Are you interested in learning more about how a synthesizer works? Ever wondered if you could make one yourself? Maybe you’ve seen kits online, but haven’t known how to get started? In this workshop, you’ll put together a basic synthesizer while learning how it and it’s components work and the related synthesis concepts. No prior experience with electronics, DIY (such as soldering), or synthesizers needed. We are trying to foster a low pressure, low anxiety environment where people can explore new ideas and skills together without judgment.
Build You will get an introduction to the kit, the electronics and synthesis concepts behind it, and soldering and assembly basics. Then participants will have time to make their kit, ask questions, and explore new skills. All the workstations, tools, and parts needed will be supplied for you and extra parts will be on hand in case something goes wrong. We’ll be using the North Coast Modular Collective “Mt. Brighton Avalanche Oscillator,” a community developed and open-source kit, designed specifically for learning. Its low part count, low complexity, and low cost is coupled with a transparency in design and function that makes it easier to understand and describe what is happening with the electricity and sound. When complete, you’ll have a simple, standalone battery operated synthesizer with a single knob for changing the pitch of the sound that you can plug headphones into, or other music gear. This part of the workshop requires registration, please see above for details.
Learn In a second room, you’ll be able to take a break, listen to some music, meet some new people, and learn about synthesis. AFRORACK (www.afrorack.org), the audio arts organization from Chicago, committed to providing children and young adults of color access to modular synthesizers and sound design tools, will provide pop-up hands-on modular synthesis workshops for people of all ages. A few MEMCO DJs will spin some low-key tunes during the workshop, so come through and say hi! MEMCO is a group of student DJs, producers, event promoters, and friends striving to spread an appreciation of underground electronic music on campus and in the Ann Arbor area. No registration required for this part of the workshop; just show up.
*contact All Hands Active for details board@allhandsactive.org
The fee for this event which includes parts is $20 / $10 for members. Contact board@allhandsactive.org for reduced rate options. If you plan to build please register below as spots are limited!
No fee/registration is required if you don’t plan to build.
Where: In the Secret Lab at Downtown Ann Arbor District Library
Theme: Getting Started
Do you want to make electronic music but aren’t sure where to get started? This event is for you. Do you make electronic music but want to talk with fellow creators? This event is for you, too.
North Coast Modular Collective and the University of Michigan’s MEMCO, a student electronic music club, are teaming up for an afternoon of sharing and socializing. We’ll talk about how you can get started making electronic music and offer some hands-on demonstrations.
Topics will include:
Getting started with DJing
Ableton Live Production Demystified
Introduction to DAW production with FL Studio
Getting started with Synth DIY
And more!
Schedule:
1:00 PM Introductions 1:30 PM Introduction to Live Coding 2:00 PM Getting Started with DJing 2:30 PM Ableton Live Production Demystified 3:00 PM Introduction to DAW Production with FL Studio 3:30 PM Getting Started with DIY 4:00 PM Getting Started with Live Visuals 4:30 PM Social Time
North Coast Modular Collective’s first ever open lab time was an enjoyable success! A goal with open lab time was to open up the design process of instruments to the community. We try to follow a not for profit, open source approach to hardware and software, so we figured that applying that approach to the process, not just the output, might work well.
A group (foreground) works on a low pass gate, while another group (background) investigates hexinverter oscillators.
Over the past year we’ve been trying to get better at involving more community members in “music” and “instruments”. Summer Camp saw much more community involvement with “music” as we hosted live streaming, studio time, and a culminating concert. Open lab time is an effort to bring community into the Collective’s design process. Our goals are multifaceted: Lower the barriers of entry into synths and DIY; Facilitate open learning between people in a judgement free and inclusive environment; Design instruments that can be used for basic electronics learning, basic DIY learning, and basic synthesis learning, in a low-cost and low-risk fashion.
Hexinverter chip-based oscillator breadboard prototypingHexinverter-based oscillator testingSplicing Tapes and Experimenting with LoopsThe Low Pass Gate Group Learned Much about Vactrols and Multimeters
Come design with us! We’ll be hosting an open lab time where anyone with any types and levels of skill can drop in and collaborate on future NCMC modules. Then, catch a masterclass and concert by synth legend, Suzanne Ciani (organized and hosted by U-M).
When: October 5th; 10am-noon Open Lab Time, 2pm Suzanne Ciani Masterclass, 8pm Suzanne Ciani Performance
Where: Open Lab Time: A2 STEAM School Lab, 912 Barton Dr, Ann Arbor, MI 48105;
Suzanne Ciani Masterclass and Performance: Hankinson Hall, Moore Building, 1100 Baits, Dr., Ann Arbor, MI
What: A full day of synthesizer fun!
Open Lab Time is an NCMC organized event that aims to open up the instrument design process to be more inclusive. In this informal session, we’ll be experimenting with vactrols for a low pass gate design. No idea what any of that means? No problem – we’ll all learn from each other! We’ll have parts and breadboards and whiteboards. You supply the curiosity, questions, and ideas. Together, we’ll see if we can design some instruments, or at least learn more about how they’re designed!
Later that same day, the University of Michigan’s Department of Performing Arts Technology is hosting synth legend Suzanne Ciani for a free masterclass and performance (free, but seats are limited). See the flyer below for more details. We’re planning to get a group together to attend the class & performance.
When: 1-9pm, Saturday, October 19, 2019 Where: Schaver Recital Hall, 4810 W Hancock, St., Wayne State University, Detroit What: Lectures, demonstrations, performances. The Unrecordables is a concert series featuring electronic music created for a live experience held at Wayne State University. Organized by Joo Won Park. Full details, here.
During the 1pm Demo & Workshop time NCMC will present, “The North Coast Approach to Instrument Design”
The 3pm Concert 1 time slot will feature a 3-person relay team from the NCMC core organizer’s group.
At 4:30, NCMC and AFRORACK will lead a discussion on the role of community in instruments and music.
AFRORACK will present a workshop during the 5:30 sessions on, “Reactive Systems Of Unending Change.”
Want to get away and dedicate some time to Synth DIY, talking electronic music craft, and electronic music shows? North Coast Modular Collective is partnering with TinkerTech and Riverside Arts Center to bring you a full day of making and music! We’ll even have three evenings of online discussion and performances as part of “virtual summer camp”!
Virtual Summer Camp
July 10th, starting 7pm EST Discussion with (TBA) Performances by: Scüter and Joo Won Park Streaming Links: Coming Soon
July 11th, starting 7pm EST Discussion with (TBA) Performances by: Swartz et and Decibel Etcher Streaming Links: Coming Soon
When: July 13th, 1-5pm Where: TinkerTech in Ypsilanti, MI Free to come hang out and chat, registration required to build something
Down for some Sumer Camp Synth DIY? Drop by the TinkerTech maker space from 1 to 5 pm. You can be one of the first to solder up the new 2hp Flint Fader or make a Lodi Mult.
Workstations and kits are included in the registration, so just bring yourself! Even if you’ve never made a module, but have been interested in getting started, this is the perfect low-pressure learning environment to do it! We’ll have live and DJ’d electronic music and plenty of time and space to hang out and chat.
Lodi Mult
The options: Lodi Mult – This is the perfect module to start with if you’re just getting into synth DIY. It just has eight parts to solder! Lodi Mult is a passive multiple, which allows you to take one signal and “multiply” it to seven copies.
Flint Fader
Flint Fader – This is a medium-level DIY project that can be a great introduction to SMD soldering (only 2 parts are SMD). This project is perfect for people who have completed a few DIY soldering projects already, but have never soldered surface mount (SMD) components before. We’ll be there to help! $5 from each sale will go toward the United Way of Genesee County Flint Water Fund ( https://www.unitedwaygenesee.org/flintwaterfund ). Flint Fader is a simple 2hp fader-based utility, where the position of the fader controls how much CV (between 0 and +5 volts) comes out the output.
July 13th, 7-10pm at Riverside Arts Center (Free!) After a day of building, walk down to Riverside Arts Center and grab a show with plenty of electronic music. You’ll have a chance to meet and chat with the artists.
Michael Collins (Austin, TX)
_M__R_T__K_™ (Chicago, IL)
North Coast Modular Collective (SE Michigan)
Swartz Et
Michael Collins (Austin) – Dark cinematic techno Austin based orchestrator of sound, Michael Collins, doesn’t fit the typical mold for most things. A misfit whose journey into creating electronic music didn’t begin until age 35, felt there was a void that needed to be explored. Collins has slowly begun crafting a wall of dark cinematic techno, primarily through the use of modular synths. While still relatively new and unknown in the music community, he has a deep passion for helping those attempting to fulfill their own dreams of creating art. His influences are everywhere, be it rock, classical, other electronic artists or even the rhythmical patterns you hear every day. He is currently working towards the completion of his first album, which should be finished by the end of 2019.
_M__R_T__K_™ (Chicago) – Modbap M__R_T__K™ is an artist and musician from Chicago, United States best known for his work as a modular performer. Creating music with an exciting genre-bending sonic style that fuses classic modular synthesis techniques and the beat driven textures of 90s era Hip-Hop, Boom Bap. Live performances are structured around minimalist compositions using both analog and digital tools, including tape loops, custom made vinyl and modular synthesizers. Rooted in DIY music culture, M__R_T__K™ is always pushing the boundaries across the ever-evolving visual and sonic landscape, giving us a sneak peak into his unique take on what it means to be a Hip-Hop artist in 2019. A composite style that bridges the gap between Hip-Hop’s underground and the Eurorack scene. M__R_T__K™ represents the new and defining sound of modular music.
North Coast Modular Collective (SE Michigan) – Techno, Ambient, Experimental North Coast Modular Collective is a group of musicians, makers, artists, and community organizers. During the Summer Camp event, a set of the North Coast Modular Collective core organizers will debut a group performance for the first time ever, working as a larger cohesive group instead of the solo or duo performances the members had done in the past.
Swartz Et (Detroit, MI) – Ambient Steve Swartz is an artist and musician from Detroit, MI. As a member of the bands Au Revoir Borealis and For Wishes, his musical output was focused on more overtly structured songs. But his solo work shows a different creative approach that is more ambient, fluid and immersive in density and texture. Much of Steve’s work is inspired by a wide range of human experiences and the natural world which are then interpreted musically by whatever means seem most appropriate. Sometimes it’s with guitar as heard on his album Nighttide. Or maybe rhythmic meditative breathing as heard on his Respire album. And most recently, a modular synth on his album A Living Thing. But no matter what medium is used, Steve’s aim is to musically draw the listener into a place of contemplation about what it means to be alive.
Want to share what you’ve been working on? Been working on something in Ableton Live? Got a computer program, or a synth patch, or a special electronic instrument? Or, just want to see what a lot of other people are doing and have a chance to learn from them? Come on out! We’ll have a table for you to set up on. Bring your headphones for maximum enjoyment!
Want to try out playing or demonstrating in front of a live audience? There will also be a round of “open PA” time, where you can take the stage during a 5 minute time slot to demo or play what you brought. (Be sure you have a 1/4″ or XLR output)
Part of the March Science Fiction exhibit at the Riverside Arts Center, Confluence brings together practitioners, artists, students, and scholars for engagement at the confluence of science fiction, technology, society, gender issues, and innovation.
Theme: What does science fiction have to do with technology, society, gender issues, or innovation?
When: March 15th, 6pm-9:30pm
Where: Riverside Arts Center, Ypsilanti, MI
Agenda:
6pm-6:45pm DJ/Social Time/Poster presentations
Bill Van Loo DJing. Time for socializing and viewing the art in the gallery. Also, student poster presentations.
6:45-7:15pmPanel Discussion
Local scholars and artists hold a discussion about how science fiction is related to technology, society, gender issues, and innovation.
