Synthase Lab

What is Synthase Lab?

Synthase Lab is a series of one-off workshops held in spring and fall. Each 90-minute session is live and interactive, bringing composers and producers of all levels together in a friendly, supportive community.

Synthase artists Josh Weinfeld and Susie Ling lead each workshop, drawing on their expertise and love of composition and music technology. Topics change from season to season, with opportunities to learn, experiment, and get creative.

Synthase Lab Workshops: Dirty Perfect with Josh Weinfeld and Next Note with Susie Ling

90 minutesLive & interactiveAges 16+All experience levels

The workshops

Music production · Josh Weinfeld

Dirty Perfect

Master an audio tool while exploring its intended (and unintended) uses.

For so long, producers have taken advantage of “happy accidents” and the imperfections of hardware to create unique sounds. Now software enters that equation.

How can we best use a tool in the way that it was created, and how can we master it for use beyond its basic functions and intentions?

In each workshop, we will take a look at one specific plug-in, tool, or program, getting to know its intended functions before experimenting beyond them. We will explore both the “dirty” and the “perfect” of what it is capable of, from precise control to quirks, imperfections, and happy accidents.

Along the way, we will try different approaches, listen to what happens, and discuss how these sounds can become part of our music. Understanding how these tools work gives you the freedom to make your own creative decisions and create original music with sounds that are uniquely yours.

Composition · Susie Ling

Next Note

Explore a specific ensemble or musical genre in depth and give friendly and honest feedback in a small, supportive group.

Have you written a piece (or part of a piece) and wanted some honest, constructive, yet friendly and supportive feedback? Do you want to hear other people’s work in the same instrumentation or genre and engage in meaningful conversation in a small group setting? If so, our “Next Note” series is for you!

For every workshop, we will either set an ensemble (e.g., string quartet, concert band, Pierrot ensemble, etc.) or a topic (e.g., Irish folk or pop-inspired music). In each workshop, Susie will lead an in-depth discussion on the selected ensemble or style, then we will take a deep dive into each participant’s works or works in progress, so that everyone can receive personalized feedback within a friendly and supportive community.

We’ll take a maximum of 10 people for the 90-minute workshop. Susie will share something related to the topic at the beginning of each workshop, then we will dive deep into everyone’s work (if any), or we can brainstorm together!

Registration is rolling. Once six people register for a workshop, we will contact the group to find a date and time that works for everyone.

Frequently asked questions

Who are these workshops for?

Composers and producers ages 16 and up, at all experience levels, are welcome!

Where does the workshop take place?

All workshops are live on Zoom!

Do I need to bring finished work?

No! For Dirty Perfect, just bring your curiosity. For Next Note, you can share a finished piece or a work in progress, brainstorm with the group, or simply learn from the discussion.

When can I register, and what does it cost?

Registration is rolling. A $5 deposit holds your spot, and the remaining $30 is due when you confirm attendance ($35 total). Once a workshop reaches six participants, Josh or Susie will contact the group to begin scheduling.

How does scheduling work?

Josh or Susie will invite the group to share availability across a range of upcoming dates. Together, we will choose a date and time that works for all participants. Once the date and time are confirmed, we will share the workshop’s Zoom link with everyone.

How large are the workshops?

Next Note is capped at 10 participants to allow for individualized attention. Dirty Perfect has a more flexible cap, but we begin scheduling as soon as six people register so the group stays small.

Is the $5 deposit refundable?

Unfortunately the deposit is nonrefundable, but you will be able to transfer to the next available workshop if you are unable to attend.

What if I need to cancel or cannot attend?

You may transfer your registration once to the next available Dirty Perfect or Next Note workshop within 12 months. If you cannot attend the following workshop, the $5 deposit is nonrefundable, and you may register again for a future workshop.

What if Synthase cancels a workshop?

We will issue a full refund of any deposits or registration fees you have paid.

What if the workshop does not reach minimum enrollment?

We will send monthly enrollment updates while registration is open. If the workshop does not reach six participants within three months, we will refund your deposit and let you know when enrollment reopens.

How do I register?

Complete the short form below, then follow the payment link to pay your $5 deposit and reserve your spot.

I am interested, but I have questions. Can I talk to someone?

Yes! Please reach out to support@synthase.cc and Josh or Susie will be happy to chat!

How can I hear about upcoming workshops?

Join our email list or follow Synthase on social media for updates.

Registration form

$35 total per workshop · $5 deposit to reserve your spot, plus $30 when you confirm attendance.