Music Technology students at Newbury College enjoyed a XOX Synthesiser masterclass recently, thanks to Reading-based music and arts charity Readipop.
The practical masterclass looked at Roland synthesisers and drum machines, along with some units from other manufacturers.
Readipop team Gavin Lombos and Harrison Screen demonstrated how to programme unique sounds on the different devices before giving the students a chance to experiment on their own and record the results of their experimentation.
An electronic music heritage project, the exciting X0X Project is supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund and explores the instruments that helped to inspire the birth of Hip Hop, House, Garage, Techno and Acid and shaped the sound of modern music.
Students are currently working on a project that focuses on creating a collection of original loops and samples utilising the synthesisers and the visit supports the application of knowledge and links with Industry.
The college music technology course leader Matt Foster, said: “This X0X masterclass gave the college’s music technology students an excellent chance to creatively interact with some iconic vintage synthesisers, and design sounds that contribute to their qualification.
“Visits from industry organisations like Readipop enrich the student learning experience and give them experience of interacting with creative professionals and equipment.”
Established in 1998, Readipop uses music and arts to enrich lives, communities and the cultural landscape of the Thames Valley, working with everyone from vulnerable young people and older folk, to aspiring artists and musicians.
This session is part of a series of workshops and educational visits delivered in partnership with Readipop. Activities have included visits to Readipop Studios in Reading, synthesiser programming masterclasses and discussions on the history and development of analogue and digital synthesis since the 1970s.
For more information on Readipop’s X0X Project, visit: readipop.co.uk/xox
To prepare for a career in music technology explore your options at: newbury-college.ac.uk/musictech
