Our school is open to everyone, regardless of prior knowledge or experience.Throughout the course, We'll utilise VCV Rack as an essential tool to enhance your learning experience and here's the best part VCV Rack is absolutely free to use. Students will not only patch virtually but also explore real-world tactile synthesis using modules like 4ms Meta Module, Expert Sleepers Disting EX, Mutable Instruments Plaits, Befaco Rampage, Mutable Instruments Clouds, Zlob Filter, etc.

Install VCV Rack, set up plugins, and audio routing Introduction to Eurorack and the VCV ecosystem Meet your patching community

What makes modular unique compared to traditional synths Exploring the relationship between software and hardware synths First touch: exploring the physical modular rig, patch cables, and front panels Understanding control voltage (CV) as the “language” of modular systems Recognizing different categories of modules: sound sources, modifiers, controllers, utilities Hands-on exploration: patching your first raw tone from oscillator to speaker

Introduction to the VCV Rack interface as a safe learning space Core building blocks: oscillators, mixers, filters, envelopes, VCAs First software patch: understanding signal flow visually Exploring VCV’s library of modules and community plugins Comparing virtual patching workflow with physical cable patching

Anatomy of a modular case: power, rails, safety basics How to connect patch cables properly, avoid feedback and overload Exploring tactile differences: knobs, sliders, patch points Learning module front-panel layouts and labeling conventions Introduction to signal levels: audio vs. CV vs. triggers Exploring utilities like attenuators, mixers, and multiples in practice Hands-on activity: recreating a simple patch in both VCV and hardware

Comparing oscillator types in VCV vs. hardware Physical exploration: tuning knobs, waveform switches, and fine control on hardware Creative play: blending digital oscillators (VCV) with analog oscillators (hardware) Introduction to FM synthesis using two oscillators Exploring wave shaping and pulse-width modulation Using hardware oscillators like Plaits for percussive and melodic voices Hands-on patching: layering multiple sound sources through a mixer

Understanding envelopes, LFOs, and CV in VCV Translating modulation into hands-on control with hardware Exploring looping envelopes and function generators (Rampage hands-on) Cross-modulation: using one modulator to shape another Hands-on patch: creating evolving textures by combining LFO + envelope Practical performance control: shaping dynamics live with hardware modulation

Hands-on exploration of resonance and filter drive VCAs as “volume doors” - feeling control voltage shape sound Exercise: dynamic sound shaping in hardware patching Exploring multimode filters (low-pass, high-pass, band-pass) Patching filters in parallel vs. in series for tonal variation Adding distortion and saturation through filter resonance

Sequencing in VCV: visual step sequencers and clocking Hardware sequencing: tactile steps, knobs, sliders, and probability controls Hybrid jam: syncing a VCV Rack patch with a hardware sequencer Exploring clock signals, dividers, and multipliers Randomness and probability-based sequencing for generative music Performance techniques: muting, variation, and live patch tweaks Strategies for combining VCV and hardware in a single setup Capture modular sounds in software like Ableton for editing, arrangement, and further processing.

Learn advanced techniques to create elements used in music such as drones, ambient pads, drum hits, basslines, and melodic phrases using hardware modules and VCV Rack. Layer Sounds in a Patch: Combine these individual voices (oscillators, modulation, filters, effects) into a single cohesive modular patch. ModularGrid activity: design your own dream rack by selecting modules and arranging a custom setup

Apply everything and create a playable instrument Recording hardware patches with digital audio tools Showcase your skills acquired throughout the course, final patch showcase and recording Mini performance showcase Graduation ceremony with certification symbolizing your proficiency in modular synthesis.