Season Pass WORM Rotterdam 2024

In-person workshop at WORM Rotterdam between 31/03/2024 - 23/06/2024.
Boomgaardsstraat 71, 3012 XA Rotterdam, The Netherlands. 

Join us for an immersive journey into the world of sound design led by Roey Tsemah, a seasoned expert in the field. In this hands-on workshop series, you'll learn the art of sculpting sound and mastering the intricacies of synthesizers from scratch.

Whether you're a music enthusiast eager to delve deeper into the creative process or a designer fascinated by the allure of synths, these workshops are for you. No prior experience is necessary – just bring your passion and curiosity!

Here's what you can expect:

• Dive deep into the fundamentals of sound design.
• Master the techniques to sculpt and manipulate sound to perfection.
• Unlock the secrets of synthesizer architecture and design.
• Explore a variety of topics across 10 specialized workshops, each focusing on a different aspect of sound design.
• Engage with like-minded individuals and expand your network in a supportive learning environment.

Whether you're a seasoned professional or a curious beginner, these workshops offer something for everyone. Attend one, attend them all – the choice is yours. Don't miss this opportunity to spend your Sunday with a fun bunch of music lovers! 

LESSON 01 March 31, 2024

Overview of Sound Synthesis

Sound synthesis is the process of creating sound using electronic and digital means. It involves generating sound waves through oscillators, shaping these sounds with filters and amplifiers, and controlling them with modulators. This foundational technique is crucial in music production, sound design, and electronic music composition. In this kickoff lesson, we will take a bird's eye view (and listen) to understand the vast scope of sound synthesis.

LESSON 02 April 7, 2024

Subtractive Synthesis, oscillators, filters, envelopes and amps

Subtractive synthesis is one of the most widely used forms of sound synthesis in music production. It works on the principle of starting with a harmonically rich waveform and then subtracting frequencies from it using a filter to shape the sound. This lesson will explore the core components of subtractive synthesis, including oscillators, filters, and envelope generators, to help you understand how to craft a wide range of sounds.

LESSON 03 April 14, 2024

Oscillators and Waveforms - from sound to modulation

Oscillators are the heartbeat of synthesizers, generating the electronic signals that get shaped into the sounds we hear. Understanding the characteristics of different waveforms and how they can be manipulated is crucial for any sound designer or music producer. This lesson delves into the basic waveforms produced by oscillators and their unique sonic qualities.

LESSON 04 May 5, 2024

Filters and envelopes in subtractive synthesis and beyond

In the world of subtractive synthesis, filters and envelopes are indispensable tools for sculpting and shaping the raw sound generated by oscillators. Filters selectively remove frequencies to alter the timbre, while envelopes provide dynamic control over various aspects of the sound over time. This lesson explores the types of filters used in subtractive synthesis and the role of envelope generators in sound design.

LESSON 05 May 12, 2024

Additive Synthesis and the power of sine waveforms

Additive synthesis stands as a fundamental sound synthesis technique characterized by its method of constructing complex sounds by layering simple sine waves, each at different frequencies, amplitudes, and phases. Unlike subtractive synthesis, which carves out sound from a harmonically rich source, additive synthesis builds sounds from the ground up, offering a unique approach to sound design. This lesson delves into the principles of additive synthesis, exploring how it can be used to create rich and detailed sounds.

LESSON 06 May 26, 2024

Frequency Modulation Synthesis

Frequency Modulation (FM) Synthesis is a powerful and versatile sound synthesis technique that has significantly shaped electronic music. Unlike subtractive or additive synthesis, FM synthesis creates complex timbres by modulating the frequency of one sound wave (the carrier) with another sound wave (the modulator). This interaction generates a wide range of harmonic and inharmonic sounds, from crisp basses and expressive leads to intricate soundscapes. This lesson explores the principles of FM synthesis, offering insight into its functionality and creative potential.

LESSON 07 June 2, 2024

Amplitude Modulation Synthesis

Amplitude Modulation (AM) Synthesis is a form of synthesis that, while less commonly discussed than its FM counterpart, offers unique and expressive sound design possibilities. AM synthesis involves modulating the amplitude (volume) of one waveform (the carrier) with another waveform (the modulator), creating a complex timbre that includes the original carrier frequency and additional sidebands. Amplitude modulation can result in bell sounds and other harmonically rich sounds. This lesson delves into the principles of AM synthesis, illustrating its potential for creating rich, evolving textures and rhythmic effects.

LESSON 08 June 9, 2024

Sampling and Wavetable Synthesis

In the diverse world of sound synthesis, sampling, and wavetable synthesis stand out for their unique approaches to sound generation and manipulation. Sampling involves recording and playing back audio files (samples) at different pitches and speeds, while wavetable synthesis uses a collection of single-cycle waveforms (wavetables) to create dynamic and evolving sounds. This lesson explores the principles behind these powerful techniques, offering insights into their capabilities and applications in music production.

LESSON 09 June 16, 2024

Effects Processing: Distortion, Reverb, Delay, and flanger

Effects processing is a crucial aspect of sound design and music production, adding depth, texture, and character to synthesized sounds. Among the myriad of audio effects available, distortion, reverb, and delay stand out for their transformative capabilities. This lesson delves into each of these effects, exploring how they can be used to enhance and modify sounds from synthesizers and other sources.

LESSON 10 June 23, 2024

Integrating Synthesis and Effects Processing

After exploring the vast landscape of synthesis techniques and effects processing, the final step in our journey is integrating these elements to create complex, polished sounds. This lesson focuses on combining subtractive, FM, AM synthesis, and sampling with effects like distortion, reverb, and delay to design unique sonic textures. We'll also touch on practical tips for patch design and creative sound design projects, offering a comprehensive approach to modern sound synthesis.