Uploaded August 2025 | Updated September 2026, 1 week ago
When I was first learning modular synths, people would tell me that the best way to learn was to “just plug cables in, turn knobs, see what happens—you’ll figure it out!”
Even today I sometimes get messages when I share my online modular synthesis course, saying “Who needs a course to learn this? Just plug cables in!”
On the one hand, I *completely* agree that exploration, experimentation, & play are super valuable parts of learning any new instrument, & you CAN get really far with modular just by listening, turning knobs, & seeing what emerges.
But—I also remember how I personally felt when I was told that as a beginner. I’m sure their intentions were for me to feel inspired, lighter, & less concerned with “getting it right.”
But instead? I felt paralyzed.
“What do you mean, just plug things in!? Where do I even begin?
What if I break something?”
I’m sure this works for some; but for me the lack of guidance made me lock up & get super nervous. Instead of experimenting, I felt overwhelmed & stupid for not “getting it” right away.
I’m sharing this because I’ve realized over the years that this isn’t unique to me. Some folks work well with exploring & others thrive in a more structured environment.
I create all my synthesis classes for folks in both worlds, who want to get deeper into their music-making AND want support to help them get there.
The amazing thing is that for SO many of the ppl who initially feel overwhelmed, as soon as they’re given step-by-step structure & support they immediately feel more empowered to experiment—& from there? They take off 🔥🚀
PS: If you haven't heard yet, I'm running a free live workshop (online) next week, all about getting started with modular synths—with clarity and confidence, instead of overwhelm and doubt.
I'll share the first steps to getting started, a simple process for building synth patches, how to develop your sound design skills, and we'll have an open Q+A to address any of your questions live!
Go to the link in bio for the link to register! 🥳
#modularsynth #synthesis #synthesizer #eurorackmodular #sounddesign #experimentalmusic #electronicmusic
When I was first learning modular synths, people would tell me that the best way to learn was to “just plug cables in, turn knobs, see what happens—you’ll figure it out!”
Even today I sometimes get messages when I share my online modular synthesis course, saying “Who needs a course to learn this? Just plug cables in!”
On the one hand, I *completely* agree that exploration, experimentation, & play are super valuable parts of learning any new instrument, & you CAN get really far with modular just by listening, turning knobs, & seeing what emerges.
But—I also remember how I personally felt when I was told that as a beginner. I’m sure their intentions were for me to feel inspired, lighter, & less concerned with “getting it right.”
But instead? I felt paralyzed.
“What do you mean, just plug things in!? Where do I even begin?
What if I break something?”
I’m sure this works for some; but for me the lack of guidance made me lock up & get super nervous. Instead of experimenting, I felt overwhelmed & stupid for not “getting it” right away.
I’m sharing this because I’ve realized over the years that this isn’t unique to me. Some folks work well with exploring & others thrive in a more structured environment.
I create all my synthesis classes for folks in both worlds, who want to get deeper into their music-making AND want support to help them get there.
The amazing thing is that for SO many of the ppl who initially feel overwhelmed, as soon as they’re given step-by-step structure & support they immediately feel more empowered to experiment—& from there? They take off 🔥🚀
PS: If you haven't heard yet, I'm running a free live workshop (online) next week, all about getting started with modular synths—with clarity and confidence, instead of overwhelm and doubt.
I'll share the first steps to getting started, a simple process for building synth patches, how to develop your sound design skills, and we'll have an open Q+A to address any of your questions live!
Go to the link in bio for the link to register! 🥳
#modularsynth #synthesis #synthesizer #eurorackmodular #sounddesign #experimentalmusic #electronicmusic
