Sound Clinic: Ambisonics Workshop
NOTE: THIS IN-PERSON WORKSHOP INVOLVES A REQUIRED GROUP ZOOM SESSION AT SOME POINT THE WEEK BEFORE.
In this two session class Chloe Alexandra Thompson will go over fundamentals of working with the 26.2 channel array at Reforesters Laboratory as well as what skills are needed to quickly onboard onto and compose arrangements for various spatial audio systems. While some technical understanding is necessary, the most important skill required for spatial composition is listening.
Thompson will go over B-Format Ambisonic Diffusion, as well as working with custom decoders and addressing speakers individually with a focus on working through composition based on the tonal quality of sounds to create a dynamic sonic architecture through movement and stillness.
This workshop will involve independent and group work with two sessions; one on zoom to prepare and then one in person to develop a working understanding of spatial composition.
Materials Required:
Audio composition: this could be stems or software instruments that you would like to spatialize. Should be under 10 minutes to allow for all participants to work with the system.
Digital Audio Workstation - Reaper, Ableton Live, or Max (advanced).
Headphones
USB port / Ethernet Adapter
COURSE DETAILS:
ZOOM VIRTUAL PRE-MEETING (REQUIRED) AT MUTUALLY AGREED UPON TIME
Setup and installation of plugins and software to prep for work in the space, introductions, DAW setup and theory intro. If you cannot make this portion of the workshop please contact instructor to discuss alternatives.
April 17th 11am to 4pm EST: In-person at Reforesters Laboratory, 147 Metropolitan Avenue, Brooklyn, NY
1.5 hour introduction to the space and demos of various forms of decoding
Student work draft spatialize in headphones (30 mins)
Lunch Break
Group work session spatializing compositions with a focus on listening to the variations in sound and movement qualities.
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Reforesters Laboratory is an experimental adaptogen cafe and sound clinic located in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. We utilize music – including spatial, sub-bass-centered, and organic instrumentation – along with breathwork, meditation, art, plant care and adaptogenic, nutritional foods + beverages to cultivate kindness—both physical and spiritual. We aim to create an environment that offers peace, space, and clarity, helping people understand the connections between themselves, their communities, and the world around them. To that end, we offer affordable "pay what you can" ticket options on all events and classes.