“Sound generates publics,” writes sound studies scholar Brandon LaBelle, pointing to the social agency of sound in public space. But how do we claim space through the sounds we make? How do we shape presence through the sonic traces we leave behind? And how do sounding and listening co-produce our immaterial presence within shared public spaces? (and no sorry for the reminder Brandon LaBelle will not be here himself)

This workshop invites participants to think of character through sound. What remains of identity when fashion, visuals, and other conventional markers are set aside, and individuality is constructed purely sonically? Drawing inspiration from classic character design processes in game design, we will develop our own sonic characters using sound alone.

After learning the basic principles of field recording and sound composition, we will venture into the diverse urban soundscape of Amsterdam-West to collect, shape, and design individual sonic traits. With a humorous and experimental approach, the workshop explores sound as a tool for expressing territory, personality, ephemerality, and relationality.

No prior experience is required. The workshop can be fully completed using a smartphone and a Bluetooth speaker. Participants who have access to a laptop or field recorder are encouraged to bring them.

The workshop is followed by three live acts: Mathilde Nobel, Serena and Abusing Machines — open to the broader public.

Time: 4pm–8pm (workshop). Live music 8pm–11pm.

Attendance for the workshop: €5. Combo ticket workshop + live music: €10. Concert only at the door: €8.

Please bring: a Bluetooth speaker, a recording device, and/or a smartphone.