Physical Interaction Design

9AM-5PM PDT

https://sashaleitman.com/designing-physical-interfaces-for-music-2026/

Description:

In this practice-based workshop, we will give you the tools to build new tools for music creation and explore new methods of physically interacting with computers to make music.

Participants will design and build working prototypes with the aim of developing these for performance and exhibits. Further issues to be explored will include modes and mappings in computer music, exercises in invention, and applications of sensors and electronics to real-time music. The workshop will be augmented by a survey of existing controllers and pieces of interactive music.

This workshop is intended for: Musicians or composers interested in exploring new possibilities in interactive music in a hands on and technical way; Anyone looking to gain valuable skills in basic analog and digital electronics, with a focus on invention; OR Makers, engineers, computer scientists, or product designers interested in exploring artistic outlets for their talents and collaborating with performers and composers.

Alongside physical interaction design, the workshop integrates programming, electronics, audio, and interactive music. Participants will learn how to use some of the basic tools of Maker community, including the Arduino platform, Teensy Microcontrollers, sensor technologies, communication with MIDI and Open Sound Control (OSC), and physical interface design.

The workshop will cover industry-standard resistive, force-sensitive, capacitative, optical, ultrasound, magnetic, and acceleration sensors. We will also teach participants how to make their own sensors with custom geometries constructed out of materials such as conductive fabric, copper tape, piezoelectrics and everyday objects.

Format:

This course will be offered in a hybrid format with an in-person and an online version.

The in-person version will provide a hands-on intensive workshop where we will be available for over 40 hours of instruction to help you build your interaction. You will have access to all of the prototyping resources and tools in the Max Lab at CCRMA. This is the pre-pandemic version of the course and some version of this has been taught at CCRMA for the last fifteen years. You will be asked to purchase a small kit as part of your registration that includes a Teensy Microcontroller as well as the necessary accessories to get started.

The second is an online format where we will be making sure to stream all lectures and presentations as well as advise you on your project from a distance. This format has been offered for the last two years because of the global pandemic. Students will be given a list of materials and tools that each student is encouraged to purchase or acquire, and we will provide links to recommended suppliers.

There will be different prices for each of these options to reflect the number of resources available to the participants.

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