Sound Synthesis Techniques and Creative Coding

MUSI
UN
3261
Course Level: 
Undergraduate
Credits: 
3

An accelerated MaxMSP creation lab designed for student musicians or programmers who are interested in the manipulation and transformation of sonic and musical data. MaxMSP is a visual programming environment optimized for creative coding. With a focus on the creative generation of musical materials for composition and performance, Max and related software will also be evaluated for analytical use cases in music theory, musicology, and other cross disciplines. Students will produce creative projects with the aid of weekly modules and tasks focusing on classic and contemporary approaches to audio synthesis (e.g. binaural audio spatialization and machine learning applications). Synchronous group coding in MaxMSP will deepen understanding of each module, supported by asynchronous video tutorials, supplementary reading, and listening.

Projects will be evaluated based on creative and personal implementations of synthesis techniques. A major effort has been made towards creating an equitable and inclusive computer music practice incorporating high level open source synthesis tools. Although no formal prerequisite exists for this course, some comfort in any of the following areas is advisable: study of a musical instrument, music-theoretical analysis or historic study, electronic music or synthesis, audio production, or an understanding of basic principles in a computer language. Skills in any of these areas may be taken as a sufficient prerequisite for this course. Onboarding materials and a flexible, customizable scaffolding will be offered to those who are starting out with MaxMSP.

Past Offerings

Fall 2022 – Section 001

Day & Time: 
MW 11:40am-12:55pm
Location: 
320H Prentis Hall