Project Practice
Workshop Schedule
| Day | Theme | Content |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Theory + Hands-on | Cybernetics foundations, feedback music, equipment exploration |
| Day 2 | Large Language Models | LLM as feedback instrument, recursive thinking |
| Day 3 | Hardware + Software | Connections, soldering, ESP32 programming, Faust |
| Day 4 | Project Development | Refine projects, mentor guidance |
| Day 5 | Showcase + Performance | Project presentations and live performances |
Three Creative Paths
Path A: Physical Materials Focus
- Full analog feedback loops
- Found objects as resonators
- Wood, metal, organic materials
- Tactile interfaces
- Electromagnetic induction
Path B: Digital Control Systems
- ESP32 microcontroller programming
- Sensor integration
- Real-time audio processing
- Algorithmic feedback control
- Network connectivity
Path C: Hybrid Approach
- Combine physical and digital elements
- Explore the boundaries between analog and digital
What Can We Create?
Musical Instruments
- Feedback-based stringed instruments
- Electromagnetic percussion systems
- Gestural controllers with sensors
- Hybrid acoustic-digital instruments
Sound Installations
- Room-scale feedback environments
- Interactive sound sculptures
- Responsive architectural elements
- Social feedback systems
Performance Systems
- Live coding interfaces
- Biometric control systems
- Audience participation platforms
- Networked ensemble tools
Technical Reference
Day 3: Hardware
- How to connect (breadboards, wires, etc.)
- How to power things
- Making wires, soldering
- How to measure (multimeter/oscilloscope)
- Connecting speakers and pickups in different combinations
Day 3: Software
- ESP32 environment setup
- Sine wave generation
- Audio passthrough / basic feedback testing
- Adding volume control
- Sensor integration
- Automated control (LFO, envelope, random, etc. using Faust)
Workshop Spirit
- Experimentation over perfection
- Collaboration over competition
- Playfulness over pressure
- Learning over knowing
- Process over product
Constraint Breeds Creativity
Why limited choices? Because constraints encourage collaboration, force innovation, and mirror real-world conditions.