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Synthesizers Morning Module 1/2 Physics Credit Introduction: Synthesizers are so named because they synthesize different elements of sound to form more complex sounds. In their focus on waveforms, timbre and amplitudes as opposed to instruments and playing style, they move from the realm of traditional music theory to incorporate a more scientific language. In this way, synthesizers also represent a synthesis of physics and music, and, in the spirit of Multiple Intelligences, they allow us to approach physics through the musical intelligence. In this class, we will be aware of both the musical and electronic aspects of synthesizers, and will study the way that certain electronic circuits have various effects on sound. We will also study the history of the synthesizer, and will hear various examples of how synthesizers have been used in composition since their creation. By the end of the quarter, students will have learned: - How to use a synthesizer o How to manipulate and combine waveforms o How to identify sounds both aurally and visually o How to break sounds down into their component waveforms o How to recreate sounds - How a synthesizer works o Understanding of basic circuitry o How to make circuits on a breadboard o The basic circuitry involved in specific synthesizer modules o How to follow and manipulate the signal path in a synthesizer o How to build a synthesizer Assignments and Grading: Work in this class will be based largely on reading and problems from a text. This is a science class, and, as such, there will be math involved, though there shouldn’t be anything a student with a grasp of algebra can’t handle. I will draw on various materials to complement the scope of this class, and will provide photocopies of readings and assignments for students. Because of this, students should have a binder or folder where they can reliably keep track of these handouts, so that they can review and study them for tests and quizzes. The in-class environment will be based to a fair extent on lecturing. As we learn more about synthesizers, we will interact with them both virtually, through various software-based synthesizers, and physically, with real synthesizers. There will be lab-time spent bread-boarding simple circuits. Finally, we will end the course by building a synthesizer of our own. Grades will be based on the following breakdown: 30% Homework 10% Participation 20% Lab-Work 10% Quizzes 30% Tests