Sound/Thesis
A comprehensive modular sound synthesis workshop developed as part of my role in the InKüLe project, designed to bring technologies and perspectives to artists while providing them with practical tools for their artistic practice. The workshop represents a bridge between traditional artistic disciplines and modern electronic music creation.
Sound/Thesis introduces participants to the world of modular sound synthesis using VCV Rack, a free and powerful virtual modular synthesizer, guiding them from basic concepts to creating complex sound textures and musical structures.
Workshop Development
As part of my role in the InKüLe project, one duty is to think of ways to bring technologies and perspectives to artists and provide them with materials and tools they can use in their artistic practice. For this purpose, I developed the concept of a workshop which was held on May 26th, 2025 at the NewPractice studio.
The workshop was designed to be accessible to both beginners and intermediate users, providing a hands-on introduction to modular synthesis while maintaining the artistic focus that defines the InKüLe project.
Workshop Content
The Sound/Thesis - Modular Sound Synthesis Workshop Using VCV Rack covered essential aspects of modular synthesis:
Core Concepts:
- Modular patching fundamentals and signal flow
- Sound synthesis principles and techniques
- VCV Rack interface and module functionality
- Recording and integration with digital audio workstations
Hands-On Learning:
- Basic setup and signal routing
- Creating sound textures and musical structures
- Subtractive synthesis techniques
- Integration with DAWs (Ableton Live, Reaper, Bitwig)
Advanced Topics:
- Complex patching techniques
- Generative music creation
- Sound design for artistic applications
- Performance and recording strategies
Technical Implementation
The workshop utilized VCV Rack, a free virtual modular synthesizer that provides access to professional-grade synthesis tools without the cost of physical hardware. The system enables:
Modular Synthesis:
- Virtual Eurorack-style modules
- Real-time sound generation and processing
- Complex signal routing and modulation
- Professional-quality audio output
Integration Capabilities:
- Connection to digital audio workstations
- Real-time recording and playback
- MIDI control and automation
- Audio file export and processing
Future Evolution: The workshop can evolve to include interconnectivity of different apps via OSC over a VPN - even remotely from each other - for any sort of sonification within the modular synthesis medium.
Workshop Outcomes
Participants gained comprehensive knowledge and practical skills in modular synthesis:
Technical Skills:
- Basic knowledge of how VCV Rack works
- Entry-level understanding of sound synthesis (subtractive synthesis)
- Ability to record experiments for further use
- Template creation for starting their own sound crafting
Artistic Applications:
- Soundscape creation techniques
- Audio snippet development
- Integration workflows with existing artistic practices
- Expanded sound design and music production capabilities
Professional Development:
- Documentation of the workshop stream for later viewing
- Accessibility through professional streaming
- Community building among participants
- Knowledge sharing across artistic disciplines
Technical Details
Technologies Used:
- VCV Rack (virtual modular synthesizer)
- Digital Audio Workstations (Ableton Live, Reaper, Bitwig)
- Professional streaming equipment
- Audio recording and processing tools
Duration: May 26th, 2025 Location: NewPractice Studio Participants: Artists from various disciplines Format: Hands-on workshop with live streaming
Impact & Accessibility
The workshop was professionally streamed, broadening accessibility and providing documentation for later viewing. This approach ensures that the knowledge shared during the workshop reaches beyond the immediate participants, creating a lasting resource for the artistic community.
Key Achievements:
- Hands-on learning experience for participants
- Professional documentation through streaming
- Accessible technology introduction
- Cross-disciplinary knowledge sharing
- Practical skill development for artistic practice
Reflection
The Sound/Thesis workshop demonstrated the importance of making complex technologies accessible to artists from diverse backgrounds. The challenge of teaching modular synthesis while maintaining artistic focus led to innovative approaches in workshop design and delivery.
Key Learnings:
- Technology serves art when properly introduced
- Hands-on experience is crucial for understanding
- Documentation extends workshop impact
- Cross-disciplinary approaches enrich learning
Future Development:
- Remote workshop capabilities via VPN
- Advanced synthesis techniques
- Collaborative sound creation
- Integration with other artistic technologies
The workshop continues to influence approaches to technology education in artistic contexts, emphasizing the importance of practical, accessible learning experiences that serve artistic practice.