Synthfarm : India’s leading residency for synthesis, modular sound design, music production, conceptual learning and synth-making.
Our focus is on India and its emerging artists, fostering talent and accelerating the growth of Indian electronic music. Synthfarm is an international effort in its 9th year preparing for the 10th edition in 2024.
We have hosted curators, facilitators and participants from 5 continents. Synthfarm is built around community ethics and committed to awareness, inclusivity, empowerment and knowledge sharing in electronic music and technology.
Click here to apply for Synthfarm 2024
Our focus is on India and its emerging artists, fostering talent and accelerating the growth of Indian electronic music. Synthfarm is an international effort in its 9th year preparing for the 10th edition in 2024.
We have hosted curators, facilitators and participants from 5 continents. Synthfarm is built around community ethics and committed to awareness, inclusivity, empowerment and knowledge sharing in electronic music and technology.
Location: Duttapukur Village, West Bengal, India
Dates: 15 – 17 November 2024
Modular Synthesis
The first learning space at Synthfarm is dedicated to modular synthesizers and the resurgence of this technology. The learning is aided by the visualisation of sound waves and signals on oscilloscopes to better understand the building blocks of synthesizers. The course-ware ranges from basic synthesis to esoteric sound design. A series of hands-on presentations, lectures, patching exercises and live performances are held in this space.
The Live Space
The Live Space hosts a diverse collection of analog and digital synthesizers, drum-machines, effect pedals and sequencers all wired into a full size mixing desk and driven through a powerful PA. Fostering a ‘plug & play’ spirit, the Live Space features expert faculty explaining the practical aspects of setting up and operating a live studio and helping you discover the spontaneous nature of synthesizers. The courseware also includes improvised jams and 1-on-1 problem solving.
Production Room
Music Production is a vast subject and we concentrate on the basics of production as well as advanced workflows. The courseware changes annually with each visiting faculty bringing their own tips and techniques. Whether it’s building or breaking down beats, creating generative music or learning how to code, this space encourages curiosity, creativity, individuality and spontaneity.
Synth Building
The Synth-Building space at Synthfarm is where we explore electronics and soldering. This is also where we build the Pocasynth, an analog synthesizer designed in India for Synthfarm by Animal Factory Amplification in collaboration with 5volts.We start with an introduction to electricity & electronic components then move onto practical skills like circuit building & soldering. We aim at demystifying electronics and encourage participants to build their own synthesizers to take home!
The Lab
The Lab is the newest addition to the program. This is a space to explore experimental audio-visual practices. The Lab is where creative accidents can lead to the discovery of new processes. The program also includes modules that are conducted outdoors on the farm such as recording and listening sessions.