Part 1 – Drones and Atmospheres

Thu 28 May, 6–7:30pm BST

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Part 2 – Sequences and Grooves

Thu 4 June, 6–7:30pm BST

Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Modular Synths (But were afraid to ask)

Well not everything, but a good starting point for musicians and non-musicians alike who would like to discover more about this mysterious world.

Composer, polymath and synth fan Dominic Murcott leads this virtual workshop, which will be hosted via Zoom. All you’ll need is a computer, headphones or speakers, and a free piece of software. You will learn the functions of core modules, the basics of subtractive and FM synthesis, and build a virtual modular setup that you can use creatively straight away. It will help decide how to get started on a real modular setup of your own. You’ll be tangled up in wires in no time.

Part 1 – Drones and Atmospheres

In this workshop we will introduce subtractive and FM synthesis using a few common modules. The emphasis will be on creating gradually shifting atmospheres and patches that evolve of their own accord.

Part 2 – Sequences and Grooves

Please note, it will be expected that participants for Part 2 will have already attended Part 1.

Having learned the basics of two common types of synthesis, sequencers and envelopes will be added to create classic bass-lines and modulating melodies.

Admission

Part 1 only // £14

Part 1 + Part 2 // £25

Please note that participants for Part 2 are expected to have already attended Part 1.

About the artist

Dominic Murcott

Dominic Murcott is a composer, percussionist, curator and educator based in London. Much of his work combines acoustic instruments with computers, film and other media. Dominic has a continuing interest in work that is personalised for specific performers, collaborating regularly with esteemed performers and artists. After several years of research, he is reknowned as an expert in the works of Conlon Nancarrow, having curated the critically acclaimed festival of the composer’s works at the Southbank Centre in 2012. This was followed in 2015 by a two-week Nancarrow festival at the Whitney Museum of American Art, an event named by the New York Times as one of their highlights of 2015. Dominic’s recent compositions include MT Modulation, an open score work for flexible ensembleand keyboard commissioned by Contemporary Music for All, and The Harmonic Canon. Released on nonclassical in 2019, The Harmonic Canon involves a custom built half tonne bronze bell designed by sculptor Marcus Vergette, winning Dominic a BASCA British Composer Award in December 2018.

Dominic also holds a professorship at Trinity Laban as head of Composition and Music Technology.