As part of this year’s Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE) programming, Erica Synths is taking center stage with two exciting events on Saturday, October 19th at ADE Lab. These events will showcase the company’s innovative Bullfrog synthesizer, a new educational tool designed in collaboration with legendary techno pioneer Richie Hawtin. Attendees with ADE Pro, Lab, or Lab Day passes can participate, but it’s first-come, first-served, so get there early to secure your spot.

Subtractive Synthesis and Creative Process: Bullfrog Synths by Erica Synths (Presentation, 45 Minutes)

Date and Time: Saturday, October 19th from 3:00 p.m. to 3:45 p.m.
Location: ADE Lab, Mappa (Soundbar) | Nes 59, Amsterdam

This presentation offers a deep dive into the fundamentals of subtractive synthesis, led by hardware connoisseurs Vril & Kris Vanderheyden. Known for their modular expertise, the two will highlight the unique capabilities of the Bullfrog synthesizer, a compact, hands-on instrument aimed at beginners in sound design. Whether you’re new to synthesis or a seasoned pro, you’ll get a chance to see the Bullfrog in action and gain insights into the subtractive synthesis process from artists who live and breathe all things modular.

Designed as an accessible tool for learning sound synthesis, the Bullfrog’s interface and modular setup make it ideal for anyone looking to break into sound design. Expect a short performance to demonstrate the Bullfrog’s sound-shaping potential, followed by an overview of its key features and creative applications. You’ll leave with a clearer understanding of how to create dynamic, evolving soundscapes through subtractive synthesis.

Exploring Sound with the Bullfrog Synthesizer (Workshop, 90 Minutes)

Date and Time: Saturday, October 19th from 4:15 p.m. to 5:45 p.m.
Location: ADE Lab, Mappa (Soundbar) | Nes 59, Amsterdam

Ready to get hands-on with synthesis? This workshop is for you. Led by Ģirts Ozoliņš (the mind behind Erica Synths) and Jacky Noise, the session will walk you through the basics of sound design using the Bullfrog synthesizer. Starting with simple waveforms and working up to more complex sound manipulations, participants will get to play around with oscillators, filters, and envelopes—core components of subtractive synthesis.

Designed for beginners but insightful enough for more advanced users, the workshop emphasizes creativity and experimentation. You’ll have the opportunity to shape your own sounds, learn key synthesis techniques, and even take home your recorded creations if you bring an audio recorder and 1/4 inch cables. No prior knowledge is needed, making this the perfect entry point for anyone curious about electronic music production.

What to Bring:

  • Headphones with a 3.5 mm jack connector
  • Audio recorder with 1/4 inch cables for recording your creations

The session will be capped at a limited number of participants to ensure an interactive learning experience. Make sure to visit the registration desk near the entrance of Het Groene Paleis (Nes, 42) on the day of the event to sign up. All participants must have a valid ADE Pro, Lab, or Lab Day pass to join.

Why Attend?

Erica Synths’ Bullfrog synthesizer is more than just a piece of gear; it’s an educational ecosystem that bridges the gap between learning and creating. The Bullfrog, a desktop synthesizer, allows users to get hands-on with the concepts behind subtractive synthesis—one of the most foundational techniques in sound design. It’s built for beginners, yet versatile enough for seasoned synth enthusiasts. By attending these sessions, you’ll not only gain a solid understanding of how to generate electronic sounds, but also experience the Bullfrog’s unique capabilities as a performance tool.

ADE Lab provides an intimate setting to explore cutting-edge technology and sound innovation. Whether you’re an aspiring producer, a music educator, or just curious about the synthesis process, these sessions offer a rare opportunity to interact directly with the gear and learn from the people who helped create it.

FAQs

1. What do I need to bring to the hands-on workshop?
You’ll need to bring your own headphones with a 3.5 mm jack connector and an audio recorder if you want to take home a recording of your creations. Cables for the recorder (1/4 inch) will also be needed.

2. Do I need any prior experience with synthesizers?
No prior experience is necessary! Both the presentation and the workshop are designed for beginners. The Bullfrog is a user-friendly instrument that’s perfect for those new to sound synthesis.

3. How do I register for these events?
Registration will be handled on a first-come, first-served basis at the registration desk near the entrance of Het Groene Paleis (Nes, 42) on the day of the event. Make sure to have a valid ADE Pro, Lab, or Lab Day pass to be eligible for the sessions.

4. Can I attend both the presentation and the workshop?
Yes, as long as there are spots available, you’re welcome to attend both sessions. Each event offers a unique perspective on the Bullfrog synthesizer, so attending both will give you a more comprehensive understanding of its capabilities.

5. Where can I find more information about the Bullfrog synthesizer?
You can find more details about the Bullfrog ecosystem on its dedicated site at https://bullfrog.ericasynths.lv.

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