What’s in this course?
This hands-on introduction to modular synthesis is designed for beginners looking to understand the fundamentals of Eurorack and modular systems using VCV Rack through practical patching exercises, sound design techniques, and creative experimentation.
Modular Synthesis Foundation Workshop (VCV Rack)
• Understanding control voltage (CV), gates, triggers, and audio signals
• Modulation: How voltage is used to control parameters
• Inputs and outputs, voltage ranges, attenuation, frequency, polarity and more
• Understanding module types and their functions
• Oscillators (VCOs), Filters(VCFs), Amplifiers(VCAs)
• Envelope Generators
• Low Frequency Oscillators (LFOs)
• Sequencers, quantizers, sample and holds, random voltage generators, mixers, effects, and utilities
• Signal Flow Fundamentals
• Practical patching workflows
• Hands-on-patch-building exercises
• Creating sounds from scratch
• Waveform shaping techniques
• Filter sculpting and resonance
• Dynamic control using envelopes and VCAs
• Designing basses, leads, drones and textures and drum sounds
• Building beginner level generative and self-playing patches
• Creating evolving patterns and melodies
• Feedback patching basics
• Experimental patch design techniques
• Understanding Modular synthesis from ground up
• Experimental approaches to composition and performance
• Hands-on learning through guided exercises
• Confidence navigating and patching modular systems
• Knowledge of essential module categories and their applications
• Practical sound design skills using subtractive synthesis
• A foundation for further exploration of Eurorack systems and experimental electronic music
Meet Your Mentor :
Matthew Ryals (USA)
Senior Mentor
Matthew Ryals is a NYC-based synthesist and composer-improviser. He has released four studio albums and a series of EPs on 3OP, SØVN, and dingn\dents. His newest album, Exalge, was released on Infrequent Seams in fall 2025.
Matthew performs internationally and was recently featured on High Zero Festival 2025 and Ex Nihilo Festival. He has collaborated with Madison Greenstone, Nava Dunkelman, Michael Foster, and many others. Matthew received a 2025 Art Omi: Music Residency, 2025 Foundation of Contemporary Arts Grant, a 2022-23 New Music USA Award, and a 2021 IEA Electronic Media Residency. He also co-curates Artifact, a Brooklyn-based experimental music series that was awarded a 2025 Brooklyn Arts Council grant.
