SONAMI * SFAI Fall'07 DT 202-1

Wednesdays 1pm-3:45, 4:15-7pm

Introduction to Digital Sound Objects: Digital Audio Bastards(*) in a post-digital age

SFAI - Sonami's home page

Course Description:

The class introduces students to basic digital and analog audio tools to enable the creation of individualized systems for live electronic performance and installations. Critical listening will be developed through an understanding of the physics of sound, looking at a select group of audio artists, and gaining an understanding of the evolution of audio art during the past 50 years.

Topics to be covered:

  1. Max-MSP - digital audio software for creation and control of audio in real-time (applications include real-time samplers, synthesis and Digital Signal Processing)
  2. Simple audio circuit building (understanding basic electronic components, reading and executing schematics), Circuit bending and Hacking: DIY audio systems
  3. Hybrid Systems: "Inefficient controllers" as essential tools for self-expression.

Goals and Objectives:

The goal of the class is to allow students to gain a critical and active sense of listening, hearing and sound producing.   Instead of resorting to packaged software and/or hardware audio systems with pre-defined aesthetics, students should be comfortable to access a variety of tools and create their own hybrid systems whether for installations, performance, or production of original audio material. While it is not expected that students will gain fluency in the various topics introduced in class, they should have acquired an understanding of the tools available and be able to personally further their investigations of the audio field.

( Note: This class can be demanding, at least 3-4 hours of work outside of class, with regular assignments and several class presentations. Please do not attend if you are already overburdened with other classes. Some costs are associated with basic tools required for the class, please check shopping list below.)

* Audio Bastards: Creating hybrid systems, Hacking, Building on digital artifacts and failures, Inefficient controllers for efficient systems, Efficient controllers for inefficient systems, DIY.

* Post-digital Audio: Modularity & Interdependence, Asynchronous systems w/ synchronous systems, embodiement, personalized systems.