Workshop on the 13th and 14th of November: Elektrosløyden vol. 2 with Øyvind Brandtsegg – Ear training for digital audio production, DSP and plugin design
On November 13th and 14th, Øyvind Brandtsegg conducted an innovative workshop at the University of Agder, focusing on ear training for digital audio production. Part of the Elektrosløyden workshop series, this session uniquely emphasized recognizing and understanding digital signal processing (DSP) techniques, diverging from traditional ear training that centers on melody and harmony. Participants explored the auditory nuances of DSP, enabling them to identify audio effects and treatments. Through hands-on activities, attendees deepened their understanding of sound synthesis and developed skills to craft personalized sonic expressions. The workshop utilized Csound and Cabbage, platforms allowing participants to design custom VST/AU plugins. These tools extend DSP applications into various environments such as embedded platforms, game engines, and web browsers, fostering versatility in digital audio creativity. Brandtsegg, a composer and performer specializing in computer improvisation and sound installations, brought his expertise in novel audio processing methods, including granular synthesis and live convolution. His extensive career spans contributions to over 25 music albums and advancements in music technology. Since 2010, he has served as a professor at NTNU, Trondheim, merging academic insights with artistic innovation. This workshop forms part of the Elektrosløyden series, which reimagines traditional Norwegian craftsmanship through the lens of electronic music technology. By integrating technical exploration with hands-on experimentation, Elektrosløyden empowers artists to innovate and shape their musical voices, embodying a modern synthesis of creativity and technology.
For students at the University of Agder, this workshop offered a unique opportunity to engage deeply with DSP techniques and expand their creative toolset. The session underscored the value of blending traditional auditory skills with cutting-edge digital methodologies, paving the way for future advancements in music production.