Modular Synthesis & Ableton Live Composition

MAKE SOME WAVES semester no2//

“Make some Waves” – semester no2 (expanding reality) Modular Synthesis & Ableton Live Composition

Berlin School of Sound Semestral Course of Modular Synthesis & Ableton Live

Duration: February 1 – April, 2026 (12 weeks)

Format: 3 groups of 7-10 students each

Schedule:

Group 1: Mondays 17:30-21:30

Group 2: Tuesdays 17:30-21:30

Group 3: Wednesdays 17:30-21:30

Total: 11 sessions × 4 hours = 44 hours per group

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LEARNING OUTCOMES

By the end of Semester 02, students will be able to:

Compose complete electronic music tracks from concept to finished production
Apply music theory (harmony, scales, chord progressions) to electronic composition
Master advanced Ableton Live production and arrangement techniques
Create complex generative compositions using modular synthesizers
Collaborate effectively with other musicians in electronic music contexts
Perform live with both software and hardware setups
Integrate multiple production philosophies and workflows into personal practice
Produce professional-quality tracks ready for release or performance
Network with established Berlin electronic music producers and scene

COURSE STRUCTURE

WEEK-BY-WEEK PROGRESSION:

  • Week 1: Music Theory (Harmony)
  • Weeks 2-3: RETHE (Ableton Live)
  • Week 4: Music Theory (Scales & Modes)
  • Weeks 5-6: Stephane (Modular Synthesis)
  • Weeks 7-8: RETHE (Ableton Live)
  • Weeks 9-10: Stephane (Modular Synthesis)
  • Weeks 11-12: Guest Producers (Berlin Electronic Music Scene)

MODULE I: MUSIC THEORY FOUNDATIONS (Weeks 1, 4)

Instructor: [TBD – Jazz Pianist/Contemporary Music Educator]

Week 1: Harmony & Chord Progressions

  • Major and minor harmony fundamentals
  • Chord construction: triads, 7ths, extended chords
  • Common chord progressions in electronic music
  • Jazz harmony basics: extensions and substitutions
  • Tension and release in composition
  • Harmonic rhythm and pacing
  • Practical exercises: building progressions in MIDI

Week 4: Scales & Modal Composition

  • Major and minor scales deep dive
  • Modal scales: Dorian, Phrygian, Lydian, Mixolydian
  • Pentatonic and chromatic scales
  • Scale selection for mood and atmosphere
  • Melodic composition techniques
  • Theory applied to electronic music context
  • Student compositions using learned concepts

MODULE II: ADVANCED ABLETON LIVE PRODUCTION (Weeks 2-3, 7-8)

Instructor: RETHE

Week 2: Compositional Workflow & Arrangement

  • Building tracks from initial idea to full arrangement
  • Advanced arrangement techniques and song structure
  • Creating dynamic progression and narrative in electronic music
  • Working with stems and layering
  • Reference tracks and critical listening
  • Session vs Arrangement view: compositional strategies
  • Practical: Start a track from scratch in class

Week 3: Sound Design for Composition

  • Designing sounds that serve the composition
  • Advanced synthesis techniques in Ableton (Wavetable, Operator)
  • Sampling and resampling as compositional tools
  • Creating signature sounds and textures
  • Audio effects chains for creative sound design
  • Building custom instrument racks
  • MIDI effects for generative composition
  • Practical: Design sound palette for your track

Week 7: Mixing & Creative Processing

  • Mixing as a compositional tool
  • Advanced EQ, compression, and dynamics
  • Creative use of reverb, delay, and modulation
  • Parallel processing techniques
  • Automation for movement and interest
  • Sidechain techniques beyond kick-bass
  • Mid-side processing for width
  • Practical: Mix your composition with creative effects

Week 8: Live Performance Setup in Ableton

  • Preparing Ableton sets for live performance
  • Session view performance techniques
  • MIDI mapping and controller integration
  • Creating performable variations and improvisation spaces
  • Looping and live sampling
  • Managing CPU and stability in live contexts
  • Building a performance-ready set
  • Practical: Transform your track into a live performance

MODULE III: MODULAR SYNTHESIS & COLLABORATIVE COMPOSITION (Weeks 5-6, 9-10)

Instructor: Stephane Lefrancois

Week 5: Composing with Modular Systems

  • Modular synthesizers as compositional instruments
  • Generative composition techniques
  • Creating evolving musical structures
  • Sequencing strategies for composition
  • Clock division and polyrhythms
  • Recording modular performances
  • Practical: Create a complete modular composition

Week 6: Collaborative Modular Jamming

  • Multi-person modular patching techniques
  • Synchronizing multiple systems
  • Listening and responding in collaborative context
  • Recording collaborative sessions
  • Integrating modular with DAW workflow
  • Mixing modular recordings
  • Group project: Begin collaborative composition

Week 9: Advanced Patching for Live Performance

  • Building performable modular systems
  • Creating variation within patches
  • Manual vs automated control in performance
  • Feedback and controlled chaos
  • Modular effects processing
  • Performance practice and troubleshooting
  • Group project: Continue collaborative development

Week 10: Finalizing Collaborative Pieces

  • Finishing and polishing collaborative modular tracks
  • Performance preparation and practice
  • Technical riders for modular live sets
  • Documenting complex patches
  • Stage plot and setup planning
  • Final rehearsal for group performances
  • Group project: Complete collaborative compositions

MODULE IV: MASTER PRODUCERS SERIES (Weeks 11-12)

Week 11: Guest Producer #1 – Berlin Electronic Music Scene

Guest Instructor: [TBD – Established Berlin Producer]

  • Personal approach to composition and production
  • Berlin electronic music aesthetics and philosophy
  • Studio workflow demonstration
  • Creative process and artistic development
  • Q&A and individual feedback sessions
  • Industry insights and networking

Week 12: Guest Producer #2 – Berlin Electronic Music Scene

Guest Instructor: [TBD – Established Berlin Producer]

  • Alternative production approach and perspective
  • Live electronic performance techniques
  • Equipment choices and performance philosophy
  • Studio insights and workflow demonstration
  • Final project feedback and career guidance
  • Networking and scene integration
  • Industry connections and opportunities

FINAL PROJECT REQUIREMENTS

Each student must complete and present:

1. Solo Composition (Required)

  • One complete electronic music track (4-8 minutes)
  • Professional mix and master
  • Written artist statement (500 words)
  • Technical documentation of production process
  • Analysis of compositional choices (harmony, structure, sound design)

2. Collaborative Composition (Required)

  • One collaborative track with fellow students (4-8 minutes)
  • Group artist statement
  • Documentation of collaborative process
  • Defined roles and contributions

3. Live Performance (Required)

  • 10-15 minute live performance at final showcase
  • Can include solo and/or collaborative material
  • Technical rider and stage plot
  • Performance documentation (video/audio)

4. Portfolio Development

  • Updated artist bio and statement
  • Professional press photos
  • Demo reel compilation
  • Online presence (SoundCloud/Bandcamp)

ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Participation & Engagement: 30%

  • Active participation in all sessions
  • Collaborative spirit in group work
  • Peer feedback and critique contributions
  • Attendance and punctuality

Weekly Progress & Exercises: 30%

  • Completion of weekly assignments
  • Application of learned techniques
  • Progression of skills over semester
  • Creative experimentation

Final Project: 40%

  • Solo composition quality (15%)
  • Collaborative composition (10%)
  • Live performance (10%)
  • Documentation and presentation (5%)

ADDITIONAL PROGRAM ELEMENTS

Student Collaboration Hours

  • Additional studio access for collaborative work
  • Peer mentoring and feedback sessions
  • Group listening and critique sessions

Final Showcase Concert

  • Professional concert at Kunsthaus ACUD
  • Individual and collaborative performances
  • Professional audio/video documentation
  • Networking event with Berlin music community
  • Date: May 3, 2026

Networking Opportunities

  • Direct access to guest instructors
  • Introduction to Berlin electronic music scene
  • Label and promoter connections
  • Potential booking opportunities

EQUIPMENT & MATERIALS PROVIDED

Available at ACUD Studio:

  • Modular synthesizer systems (Eurorack)
  • Ableton Live 12 Suite (full licenses)
  • Professional monitoring (Genelec, KRK)
  • Audio interfaces (Universal Audio, RME)
  • MIDI controllers (Push, Launchpad, keyboards)
  • Microphones and recording equipment
  • Hardware synthesizers and drum machines
  • Effects processors and outboard gear

Students Should Bring:

  • Own laptop with Ableton Live (10 or later)
  • Professional headphones
  • USB drive for project backup
  • Notebook for documentation
  • MIDI controller (optional but recommended)

PREREQUISITES & REQUIREMENTS

Required:

  • Completion of MAKE SOME WAVES Semester 01, or
  • Equivalent experience with sound art/electronic music fundamentals
  • Basic Ableton Live knowledge
  • Functional laptop capable of running music production software
  • Commitment to attend all 12 sessions

Recommended:

  • Some experience with music theory (helpful but not required)
  • Experience with modular synthesizers (from Semester 01)
  • Active interest in electronic music production
  • Openness to collaboration and experimentation

INSTRUCTORS

RETHE Berlin-based producer and live performer specializing in hardware/software integration. Known for dynamic live sets combining Elektron gear with Ableton Live. Experienced educator in electronic music production.

Stephane Lefrancois Modular synthesis expert and experimental musician. Specializes in generative composition and collaborative electronic music practices. Extensive experience with Eurorack systems and live modular performance.

Music Theory Instructor [Jazz pianist and contemporary music educator with experience teaching harmony and improvisation in electronic music contexts – TBD]

Guest Producer #1 [Established Berlin-based electronic music producer with significant scene presence and international recognition – TBD]

Guest Producer #2 [Established Berlin-based electronic music producer with significant scene presence and international recognition – TBD]

VENUE

Kunsthaus ACUD Veteranenstraße 21 10119 Berlin Mitte

APPLICATION & ENROLLMENT

Application Deadline: January 15, 2026 Start Date: February 1, 2026

Application Requirements:

  • Brief statement of artistic goals (300 words)
  • Sample of previous work (optional but recommended)

Limited Spaces: Maximum 30 students (3 groups of 10)

Contact: info@berlinschoolofsound.com www.berlinschoolofsound.com

LEARNING PHILOSOPHY

MAKE SOME WAVES Semester 02 “Expanding Reality” builds on the foundational knowledge from Semester 01, focusing intensively on composition and performance skills. This program emphasizes:

Compositional Depth: Moving beyond technical skills to developing personal artistic voice and complete works

Collaborative Practice: Learning to create music with others, essential for the electronic music community

Performance Readiness: Preparing students for live performance contexts with professional standards

Industry Connection: Direct mentorship from established Berlin producers and scene integration

Theoretical Foundation: Grounding experimental practice in music theory fundamentals

Multiple Perspectives: Exposure to different production philosophies and workflows through varied instructors and established Berlin scene producers

By the end of Semester 02, students will have:

  • A portfolio of completed compositions
  • Live performance experience
  • Direct connections to Berlin’s electronic music community
  • Practical skills ready for professional music production
  • Theoretical understanding supporting creative practice
  • Collaborative projects and community connections

This intensive 12-week program positions graduates for active participation in Berlin’s electronic music scene, whether as performers, producers, or sound artists. The combination of regular instructors and world-class guest producers provides unparalleled access to the knowledge and networks essential for success in electronic music.

MAKE SOME WAVES – Semester 02: Where Foundation Becomes Creation 🎹🎛️✨