Ambisonics Course
In this two session class Chloe Alexandra Thompson will go over fundamentals of working with the 24.2 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 onboard participants to B-Format Ambisonic Diffusion, with a focus on working through composition based on the tonal quality of sounds to create a dynamic sonic architecture through movement and stillness. Custom decoders and addressing speakers individually will also be discussed.
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 - Ableton Live, Reapers or Max (advanced).
Envelope for Live / IEM or ICST for Reaper
Headphones
USB port / Ethernet Adapter
COURSE DETAILS:
Lecture and Demo portions are group oriented and participatory. Ideally, students will have installed plugins and software to prep for work in the space - details to be sent with a deck of instructions ahead of the first session. Support is available if this cannot happen
Monday & Tuesday September 15, 6-8pm EST: In-person at Reforesters Laboratory, 147 Metropolitan Avenue, Brooklyn, NY
Monday Session:
Overview of Ambisonics, demos and lecture format.
Introduction to the space and demos & lecture of various forms of spatialization. A focus of discussion will be on the tonal qualities of sound and highlighting what sounds best suit specific methods of spatialization.
We will begin to draft movement and listen to the difference between the space and binaural representations of the space in headphones.
Tuesday Session:
Student work draft spatialize in stereo / headphones to discuss in workshop.
Group work session spatializing all student compositions with a focus on listening to the variations in sound and movement qualities.
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Come Early to Elevate Your Experience with Adaptogenic Foods and Teas
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.