SPLICE Institute 2022
Workshop Descriptions

Workshops (essentially “classes”) at SPLICE are divided into four time blocks. Many of these workshops meet every day for the duration of the week. Participants are encouraged to be as consistent as possible in attending their selected workshops. For the vast majority of these, if you have a laptop you should bring it!

A note about levels:
Introductory - Assumes a basic proficiency with computers, but does not assume prior knowledge or experience with the fundamentals of electroacoustic music (digital theory, acoustics, etc) or the tools being taught.
Intermediate - Assumes at least basic prior knowledge of the fundamentals of electroacoustic music, and a working understanding of the tools being taught (for example some experience with Max).
Advanced - Assumes extensive experience with the concepts of electroacoustic music, and prior fluency in the tools being taught.

Slot A 9-10:15a

Animals with Synthesizers (Introductory)
An introductory workshop exploring the basics of synthesis in Reaper while creating sound for a short animal-themed film clip. All experience levels welcome!

Gen in Jitter (Advanced)
This workshop will present an in-depth overview of the matrix, texture, and pixel processing capabilities of the Gen environment in Jitter. Looking at applications of [jit.gen], [jit.pix], and [jit.gl.pix], participants will create generative graphics, video processing modules, and audio-reactive visuals in Max. Prerequisite knowledge: intermediate Max skills and familiarity with Jitter.

IRCAM Tools (Intermediate)
This will cover 2 pieces of IRCAM software: OpenMusic and Orchidea. The first 3 days cover OpenMusic, a visual programming environment for Computer-Assisted Composition. The last 2 days cover Orchidea, a computer-assisted orchestration tool. Users select a set of instruments and a target audio file, and Orchidea generates a sample-based audio file result and a score.

Intro to Interactive Video with Jitter
This will introduce jitter matrixes, manipulation processes, and openGL. It will also discuss audio to video connections.

Intro to SuperCollider (Intermediate)
An introductory workshop for those with little or no experience with SuperCollider. Learn basic audio coding while exploring this free and expressive programming language that provides a framework for acoustic research, algorithmic music, and electronic music performance.

Intro to Performance Technology (Introductory)
If you are new to electronic music performance, start here! The basic details about everything you need to know to setup and run pieces with electronics.

DAW for Performers (Introductory)
A continuation of the “Intro to Performance Technology” classes, DAW for Performers will explore the basics of creating, recording, and editing sound in Digital Audio Workstations. After this course, participants will feel comfortable creating fixed playback electronics for use in their own compositions.

Slot B 10:30-11:45a

Intro to Max (Introductory)
An introductory workshop for those with little or no experience using Max. Explore the power of this visual programming language for music and multimedia, creating patches that input live signals, play soundfiles, and process live signals/soundfiles in various ways.

Max Topics (Intermediate)
Various workshops on working with Max, including data processing, effects, and preset systems, all geared for intermediate Max users.

Jitter & Javascript (Advanced)
This workshop will present an introduction to the Javascript environment in Max that focuses on Jitter functions. Participants will create procedural code to generate visuals, process matrix data, and develop video effects all within the Javascript environment in Max. Prerequisite knowledge: intermediate Max skills and familiarity with Jitter.

Performing with Ableton Live (Introductory)
A series of sessions to introduce and explore techniques for using Ableton Live in live performance both for full structured pieces and improvisation.

Advanced SuperCollider (Advanced)
Intermediate workshop for musicians with some experience in SuperCollider. This workshop is for you if you know how to make SynthDefs and Routines but do not know where to go next. Each day, we will focus on specific topics, including functions, GUI, HID, live processing, and algorithmic composition.

Max for Performers (Introductory)
Learn the basics of Max including how to troubleshoot, create cue systems, timers, and musically interact within the software. No previous experience is necessary.

SLot C 1-2:15p

Aesthetics (Open)
Discuss the aesthetics of electroacoustic music composition and performance. This workshop, often focused on previous evenings' concerts, engages participants in lively debate about the "why" of electroacoustic music. No experience needed. All discussions are strictly confidential!

Introduction to Visual Music Composition (Open)
This workshop is a hands-on introductory practice on the composition of visual music. We will make a short historical and aesthetical overview, and present several techniques of image manipulation, mixing and compositing, as well as sound integration. Participants who want to experiment with their own computers should have video editing software (for example, Final Cut, Premiere, etc.), as well as modeling software (Cinema 4D, Blender, etc.). The software used to demonstrate techniques will be Final Cut and Cinema 4D.

EA Interpretation and Performance Practice (Open)
This workshop is for instrumentalists who are new to electroacoustic performance. We will share approaches to technical challenges in performance, as well as models of compositions and systems that reflect a personal and informed performance style.

No Input Mixer (Open)
Learn how to turn a mixer into an expressive noise machine. The workshop will use feedback-based electronic sounds. No computers are needed. The instructor will provide mixers and amps, but feel free to bring your own. Limited slots are available.

Gestural Controllers (Open)
This workshop will be an introduction to working with gestural controllers in Max. Though much of what we explore will be applicable to a wide range of controllers and sensors and participants are welcome to bring their own controllers, there will also be a few Leap motion sensors available for hands-on work in small groups. We will cover issues in data polling, smoothing, and mapping; introduce Wekinator, a machine learning tool useful for prototyping particular kinds of behavior; discuss the aesthetics of performing with gestures; and most importantly, make some sounds together.

Slot d 2:30-3:45p

Improv with Electronics (Open)
Electronic instruments provide physical control of sound that lends itself to a virtuosity of mental creativity unique among instrumental practices. Automation can free the performer from many of the physical limitations typical of other instruments. In this series of workshops, we will examine this unique property of electronics. Participants will create or hone their electroacoustic performance practice through discussion, building and creation sessions, and improvisation with the group.

Office Hours (Open)
Get help with your electronics, Max patch, piece, or to ask questions about workshop topics.