Synthesizers.com Composition Contest Videos

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You can find descriptions for each video below. You can find additional Synthesizers.com contest posts here.

Playlist:

1. O Z Hall: Zebra Synth

Dive into the enthralling world of synthesizers and witness O Z Hall's outstanding entry, "Zebra Synth", in the Synthesizers.com Composition Contest. Crafted with unparalleled precision and technique, this remarkable composition combines an array of captivating sounds that will take you on a breathtaking sonic journey.

Hall masterfully utilizes three distinctive patches in "Zebra Synth" to create an immersive soundscape. The first patch features a drone made using a Q106A oscillator, which is meticulously processed by a wave folder. Another oscillator, intertwined with linear FM from the wavefolder output, results in a fascinating "clang tone" that is beautifully amplified by a digital reverb.

In the second patch, a sequenced voice is artfully produced by employing two re-paneled Q106 oscillators. One output is channeled into the input of the linear FM, which subsequently provides intriguing timbral variations. The Q119A sequencer's 3rd row masterfully controls a Ratchet effect, adding even further depth to the composition. An expertly-applied digital delay effect enriches the output of this patch.

Lastly, the lead voice is ingeniously designed using the Q169 Dual Oscillator with Pulse Width modulation. O Z Hall skillfully manipulates the 24db/oct low pass filter in real-time to deliver an electrifying performance. The extended digital delay effect ties the entire sonic experience together.
O Z Hall's "Zebra Synth" draws its arsenal of modular synthesis tools from the Synthesizers.com catalog, including Q106, Q106A, Q119A, Q171, Q148, Q127, Q169, Q168, Q167, Q114, Q174, and Q175A modules. The creative process has been meticulously executed, showcasing how these modules can be combined to engineer a rich and dynamic sound adventure.

2. Kip Kubin: Snowflakes are Dancing Tomita Bells Tutorial

Experience the Magic of Synthesis with Kip Kubin's "Snowflakes Are Dancing”

Immerse yourself in the mesmerizing soundscape of Kip Kubin's inspired composition, "Snowflakes Are Dancing." As an entrant in Synthesizers.com's prestigious composition contest, Kip masterfully showcases his creativity and technical prowess by skillfully capturing the essence of Isao Tomita's iconic bell sound.

Kip's track not only pays homage to the legendary Japanese composer, but also takes it to new heights by incorporating an imaginative twist using powerful modules from Synthesizers.com. Crafting his innovative sound with expert precision, Kip utilized the following modules: Q106 (3) Oscillator, Q112 Mixer, Q109 (2) Envelope Generator, Q124 Multiples, Q108 VCA (using Corsynth C108), and Q150 Filter (using Corsynth C101).

In this awe-inspiring performance, Kip's inventive approach displays his keen understanding of synthesis and passion for music production. Witness the intricate layering, sonic textures, and hypnotic melodies that engulf you in a world of shimmering snowflakes. This captivating composition is the perfect example of how to bring excitement and creative expression to the art of modular synthesis.

3. Giulio Carmassi: Self Generating Duet

Discover the enchanting sound innovation crafted by Giulio Carmassi in their inspiring entry to the Synthesizers.com Composition Contest, titled "Self Generating Duet." Giulio masterfully creates a captivating soundscape with a minimalist setup, exploring the vast depths and rich tones that Synthesizers.com modules provide. This composition showcases the beauty of simplicity and the raw fire that accompanies these powerful yet compact synthesizers.

In "Self Generating Duet," Giulio intricately constructs two distinct voices using a meticulous combination of Synthesizers.com modules. Voice #1 emerges from a pattern created by the Q167 LFO++ module's square wave output, manually syncopated by inverting the LFO at times. The audio originates from one VCO channeled through the Q107A State Variable Filter, controlled and overdriven by that same LFO and Q114 Mixer++. The mesmerizing Voice #1 variation transforms the bass pattern into a kick sound by adjusting the filter's cutoff and resonance.

Voice #2 beautifully unfolds as the Q157 SH++ module controls the pitch of a VCO, synced to play a captivating triplet atop the bass pattern. The Voice #2 variation switches between this and manual pitch control on the VCO, akin to playing a fretless instrument.

Experience the harmonious blend of innovation and creativity with Giulio Carmassi's skillful use of Synthesizers.com modules:
-Q167 LFO++
-Q157 SH++
-Q114 Mixer++
-Two Q106 VCOs
-Q107A State Variable Filter

4. Samuel Hirsh: Sweepers

Explore the World of Synth Magic with Samuel Hirsh's Impressive "Sweepers"

Dive into the realm of sonic wonder as Samuel Hirsh invites you to experience an astounding synth masterpiece, titled Sweepers. Crafted with skillful precision, this unique creation serves as a testament to both the contestant's innovative artistry and the remarkable capabilities of Synthesizers.com modules.

Driven by unwavering creativity, Samuel Hirsh has meticulously crafted this immersive composition by using only the acclaimed Dotcom as the sole sound source. With diligence and sheer determination, he built the entire track using cycles of over-dubbing to achieve all the elements - drums, bass, leads, pads, and poly synth sounds. The results will have you in awe as Sweepers showcases a harmonious blend of classic subtractive and additive synthesis techniques.

The secret to this entrancing piece lies in the selection of impeccable Synthesizers.com modules, including:
-Q106 Oscillator x2
-Q107 State Variable Filter
-Q108 Amplifier
-Q109 Envelope Generator x2
-Q112 4 Channel Mixer
-Q124 Multiples
-Q174 MIDI Interface

It's worth noting the synth's monophonic nature, coupled with Samuel Hirsh's small system, made the task exponentially challenging. However, with ingenuity and perseverance, the creator's soul shines brightly through this breath-taking composition.

5. Kibrom Birhane: Tizita Masingo

Welcome to the Synthesizer Composition Contest featuring Kibrom Birhane and their impressive entry, "Tizita Masinqo"

Step into the mesmerizing world of Ethiopian pentatonic melodies with Kibrom Birhane's captivating entry for the synthesizer composition contest hosted by Synthesizers.com. This innovative performance, titled "Tizita Masinqo," reflects Kibrom's unique take on the art of synthesis and their deep connection to Ethiopian musical heritage.

Harnessing the power of 3 Q106 oscillators, a Q141 quantizer, along with an impressive array of other Synthesizers.com modules, Kibrom has masterfully created a sequence that transports the listener to the enchanting landscapes of Ethiopia. The carefully chosen modules include Q113, 2Q109, 3 Q124, 2Q960, Q174, Q107, Q108, Q115, Q172, 2Q962, Q110, Q117, Q125, and 2 Q962 - each playing a key role in molding this remarkable composition.

The backbone of "Tizita Masinqo" lies in its intriguing combination of random elements, such as noise, sample and hold, and signal processing, which work together seamlessly to bring to life Kibrom's exceptional vision—the rich Ethiopian pentatonic experience.

Get ready to explore Kibrom's creative process and dive into their unparalleled sound innovation in this immersive and mesmerizing performance. Through their inventive use of Synthesizers.com modules, they provide a fresh and inspiring look into the world of electronic music composition that you won't want to miss.

Join Kibrom Birhane and other exceptional musical minds as they redefine the boundaries of sound and imagination.

6. George Benton: Dotcompetition2023

Experience the Sound Innovations of dotcompetition2023 by George Benton

Immerse yourself in the captivating and innovative sounds of dotcompetition2023, a stunning synthesizer composition created by the gifted and talented George Benton for the Synthesizers.com composition contest. This mesmerizing performance showcases intricate sound design and creative use of various modular components to produce a truly inspiring sonic experience.

George has intricately woven together a rich tapestry of sounds using an impressive array of synthesizers.com modules. He has expertly crafted a main and secondary riff, an engaging drum pattern, a growling bass sweep, sweeping noise elements, and an atmospheric pad to create this mesmerizing piece.

The backbone of this wonderful piece lies in the main riff. Combining the Q960, Q106, Q107a, and Q108 modules, George introduces a pulse-modulated chorus effect using the Q167 LFO and a 16-pattern riff with the help of Q963, Q128, and Q173 modules. The secondary riff adds another layer of complexity using the Q119a, Q106, Q150a, and Q148 modules, along with added delay for depth.

The drums are meticulously designed with rows 2 and 3 of the Q960 controlling both the cutoff and resonance on a Q107a module, working in conjunction with Q108 and Q109a modules. The growling bass sweep is achieved with two Q106 modules, a manually triggered Q107a module, and Q157 LFO for that remarkable growl effect.

The uniquely crafted noise component uses the Q110 pink noise and a manually swept Q107a module while the soothing pad melody is generated using a Q179 simple SEQ pattern, passed through an Eventide H9 for added ambience.

The modules featured in this creative endeavor include Q960, Q106 x 6, Q107a x 3, Q108 x 3, Q167 x 2, Q963, Q128, Q173, Q119a, Q150 x 2, Q157, Q110, Q179, Q112, Q148, Q158, Q171, Q174, and Q175.

7. Scott Ampleford: Centerpiece

Welcome to Synthesizers.com's latest composition contest, where creative minds immerse themselves in crafting awe-inspiring sonic landscapes! In this entry, we take a closer look at the captivating work of Scott Ampleford, who showcases his riveting creation titled Centerpiece.

Step into a world of innovative sound combinations, as Scott expertly weaves a mesmerizing tapestry of pseudo-tribal rhythms, generated through the use of ring modulation and white noise. Experience the irresistible allure of crunchy, processed guitar and melodica that intertwines with the rhythmic foundation provided by big, modular analog drums - triggered by a pad.

The pièce de résistance in Scott's entry comes in the form of an infectious bouncy bass topped with silky smooth leads, solidifying Centerpiece as an entrancing sonic journey. The exquisite fusion of these elements results in a unique soundscape that sets it apart in our competition.

To create this phenomenal auditory experience, Scott meticulously employed a broad range of Synthesizers.com modules, including:
-Q106 Oscillator
-Q110 Noise
-Q107 State Variable Filter
-Q150A Ladder Filter
-Q109 Envelope Generator
-Q118 Instrument Interface
-Q124 Multiples
-Q116 Ring Modulator
-Q112 4 Channel Mixer
-Q117 Sample & Hold
-Q115 Reverb
-Q104 MIDI Interface
-Q108 Amplifier

Witness Scott's technical prowess as he integrates these modules seamlessly, revealing his distinct approach to synth composition. His entry is a testament to the limitless possibilities offered by the Synthesizers.com platform, pushing the boundaries of sound innovation.

8. Jamie Turner: Switched on Silent Warning

Switched On Silent Warning: A Dazzling Synth Creation by Jamie Turner

Prepare to be transported into the world of mesmerizing soundscapes and ethereal aural journeys with Jamie Turner's incredible entry into the Synthesizers.com Composition Contest, titled Switched On Silent Warning.

Immerse yourself in the captivating universe of sound innovation, where Jamie masterfully utilizes an array of Synthesizers.com modules to create a truly unique and awe-inspiring composition.

🎹 Essential Modules from Synthesizers.com:
Q105 Slew Limiter
Q174 MIDI Interface
Q175 MIDI Interface Aid
Q124 Multiples
x3 Q106 Oscillators with Q141 Oscillator Aids
x1 Q106 Oscillator being used an LFO
Q116 Ring Modulator
Q113 8-Channel Mixer
Q109 Envelope Generators
Q110 Noise Source
Q150 Transistor Ladder Filter
Q108 Amplifier
Q111 Pan/Fade

🔧 Technical Ingenuity:
Crafted entirely on Jamie's Synthesizers.com setup, Switched On Silent Warning weaves a compelling and intricate tapestry from 2-3 ladder-filtered oscillators forming the four main parts. A brilliant ring modulator sums the lead sounds, while the bass patch consists of 4 oscillators using different waveforms. To add an extra layer of complexity, Jamie also incorporated overdubs by utilizing the Q175 MIDI Interface Aid for arpeggios and additional textured sounds.

🌟 Creativity Unleashed:
The end result of Jamie's innovative approach and artistic vision is a spellbinding composition that captures your imagination and leaves you longing for more. Delve into the kaleidoscope of sonic exploration and relive those enchanting moments as you witness the true power of synthesizers and the boundless creativity of artists like Jamie Turner.

9. David Ryle (Kindred Lost): Mors Systematic Organici

Welcome to the Synthesizers.com Composition Contest! 🎶

Today, we're excited to share with you a mesmerizing and innovative entry by the talented David Ryle (Kindred Lost). This incredible performance, titled More Systematic Organici, showcases the perfect blend of technical prowess and creative ingenuity.

In this captivating piece, Kindred Lost utilizes a unique and powerful combination of synthesizers.com modules to form a solid and engaging foundation. The bass line, percussion, chord sequences, and filter effects are all performed in real time using a modular setup that seamlessly integrates into a DAW. The result? A beautifully crafted soundscape that captures listeners' attention from the very beginning.

Listen closely, and you'll hear an impressive array of modular components at work. Kindred Lost masterfully integrates a variety of synthesizers.com components, including:
Q106 (x5)
Q107
Q150
Q109 (x6)
Q111
Q127
Q173
Q108 (x5)
Q112 (x3)
Q113
Q125 (x4)
Q123
Q110
Q128 (x3)
Q124 (x3)
Q60 (x2)
Q962 (x2)
Q963
Q961
Q171

Each component plays a crucial role in making this extraordinary composition come to life. With every layer added, we're taken on an enthralling sonic journey, ensconced in the lush atmospherics, rhythmic complexities, and delightful harmonies that emerge.

Thank you for joining us in celebrating the boundless creativity that modular synthesis has to offer. As you delight in Kindred Lost's More Systematic Organici, let your imagination soar, and let the power of sound synthesis reignite your passion for music. 🎹✨

10. Paca Thomas: East Eats West

Today, we're excited to showcase a mesmerizing and innovative entry from Paca Thomas, with a captivating performance titled East Eats West. 🎧🌐

Paca demonstrates his incredible technical prowess by utilizing a One-Pass recording process. This means that all the sounds were patched, generated, and recorded simultaneously. The result is a deliciously rich and harmonically engaging composition. 🎚️🎛️

His chosen synthesizer for this sonic masterpiece is The Mighty Rebekah, a 10-voice modular comprised of mostly DotCom modules and supplemented with various third-party modules. The Mighty Rebekah truly lives up to its name, showcasing a staggering amount of versatility and sound manipulation capabilities. 🌟🔥

Accompanying this robust setup, Paca also employs the Make Noise 0-Coast analog synth, and the Vermona DRM 1 MkIII. These additional synths lend their unique textures and timbres to his composition, adding extra dimensions of sonic exploration. 🧭🚀

This brilliant performance in East Eats West exemplifies the synergy between traditional and contemporary soundscapes, and serves as an inspiring testament to what can be achieved with creativity, passion, and high-quality Synthesizers.com modules. 🌉🌆

11. Mathias Denoulet: Submission Video

Discover the captivating simplicity of Matias Denoulet's inspired creation, "Submission Video," in this mesmerizing entry into Synthesizers.com's composition contest. Let your ears feast on the pure essence of electronic music as Matias masterfully blends a Minimoogish-sounding patch with a simple bassline driven by a classic TR-909.

Focusing on his signature style, Matias skillfully employs a selection of Synthesizers.com modules to bring his vision to life. His melodic journey primarily revolves around the versatile Q119 Sequencer, while incorporating a variety of other modules like Q173 Gate Math, Q106 VCOs, Q123 Standards, Q174 Midi Interface, Q112 Mixer, Q124 Multiples, Q107 State Variable Filter, Q109 Envelope Generator, and Q108 Amplifier. Matias has also added subtle touches using the Q155 Curver for an extra layer of sonic depth.

Embracing his passion for simplicity, Matias has crafted countless bassline variations and organesque sounds by using the GRP A2 synth as a warm, dimmed sub voice in conjunction with the Synthesizers.com system. Final mixing is achieved through a Mixer++, allowing the GRP's rich tones and the other modules to blend seamlessly into a harmonious soundscape.

Experience Matias Denoulet's authentic, minimalist approach and extraordinary creativity in this enchanting "Submission Video."

12. John Miller (AVMUS): Serving Man since 1938

Step into a world of sound innovation with John Miller (AVMUS)'s captivating contest entry, Serving Man Since 1938! This mesmerizing synthesizer composition combines artistic creativity with technical mastery, breathing new life into the soundscape of electronic music. Embrace the evocative energy of this unique piece as you get drawn into its intriguing sonic dimensions.

Serving Man Since 1938 is a testament to the mastery of Synthesizers.com modules, featuring a carefully curated selection including the Q171, Q172, Q116, Q117, Q106 (x4), Q109 (x3), Q106, Q112, Q141, Q124 (x2), Q107, Q150, Q104, Q105, Q137, and Q103. Each module contributes its own distinctive flair to the composition, showcasing the versatility and power of Synthesizers.com's impressive synthesizer ecosystem.

For this intriguing piece, the main patch highlights three Osc's, meticulously controlled by a MIDI keyboard and 1v/octave modulated for each Osc. The first Osc is modulated via the Q117 that is quantized, while the other two have a quantized envelope modulating the 1v/octave. This patch can be heard throughout most of the composition, subtly dropping out in two spots.
The creative overdubs feature the Q116, the two filters, and a 4th Q106 as an LFO, demonstrating John Miller's (AVMUS) impeccable artistry and expert technical skills. This richly textured composition is not only a pleasure to listen to but also a powerful illustration of what's possible within the world of synthesizer music.

13. Ross Stapf: YouCut 20230529

Welcome to the Synthesizers.com Composition Contest! In today's video, we're excited to share with you our latest stellar submission by the talented musician, Ross Stapf. This captivating performance showcases Ross's auditory masterpiece, "YouCut 20230529." Immerse yourself in this sonically rich experience and witness the sheer creativity and technical prowess that went into this mesmerizing composition.

"YouCut 20230529" is an exquisite tapestry of sound, woven together with an innovative blend of synthesizers.com modules. The main patch features three oscillators meticulously controlled by a MIDI keyboard, as well as 1v/octave modulation for each oscillator. The first oscillator is modulated via the Q117, while the other two enjoy a quantized envelope leveling their frequencies. This mesmerizing patch courses through most of the composition, dropping out on just a few strategic occasions.

Extra layers of sonic intricacy come from thoughtfully crafted overdubs highlighting the Q116, two filters, and a fourth Q106 megaphone module acting as an LFO. Ross's choice of synthesizers.com modules includes the Q119 sequencer/controller, a pair of Q147 distributors, a Q157 Quantizer, and the Q167 Comparator Plus. Housed in elegant cabinets, powered to perfection, and interconnected with a bundle of cables – the result is truly awe-inspiring.

Ross Stapf's "YouCut 20230529" is an inspiring testament to the boundless creativity that can be unleashed with the right combination of technical mastery and artistic imagination. Explore more of the amazing entries in our Synthesizers.com contest by following our channel and subscribing to our updates. And remember to head over to synthesizers.com for any and all of your synthesizer needs!

14. Shinichiro Kitada: Nothing of Life

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of synthesizers with this stunning entry from Shinichiro Kitada for the Synthesizers.com Composition Contest. Transport your senses to a realm of sonic innovation with 'Nothing Of Life,' a unique amalgamation of pure ingenuity and technical prowess.

Powered by an exceptional lineup of Synthesizers.com modules - including the Q106, Q107, Q108, Q109, Q112, Q124, Q150, Q167, and Q174 - Kitada masterfully plays three simultaneous parts: bass, sequence 1, and sequence 2. This multifaceted setup creates an electrifying musical experience that showcases the boundless possibilities of these remarkable modules.

Adding a touch of nostalgic analog warmth, chords and drums are played on a cassette tape, expertly synchronized with a cassette MTR and Q80 to create a mesmerizing blend of vintage and modern soundscapes. The result: a rich, immersive auditory experience that highlights Kitada's incomparable creativity and skill.

This enthralling performance is just one of the many sonic masterpieces awaiting you in the world of Synthesizers.com. Don't miss out on the thrilling journey of discovery that lies ahead! 💥

15. Roby Deaton: Deaton Lemay Project

Welcome to the Synthesizer Composition Contest, featuring an electrifying performance by Roby Deaton!

🎵 Dive into the mesmerizing world of the Deaton Lemay Project - a captivating and innovative composition by our talented contestant Roby Deaton. Drawing inspiration from ELP's classic Karn Evil 9 live performance, this piece showcases a deep understanding of the modules and a remarkable attention to detail in crafting the perfect timbre.
In this remarkable display of creativity, Deaton relies on the power of synthesizers.com modules. Taking advantage of 3 oscillators, EGs, and Filters for the main sound, and adding another oscillator, EG, and filter for the captivating ending sequence, this performance skillfully showcases the limitless potential of these modules.

🎹 While meticulously tweaking the filters and envelope generators to match the timbre of the iconic ELP sound, Roby Deaton also made creative use of the arpeggiator feature to hold a chord and emulate Keith Emerson's electrifying live synth solo during the chorus section. The result is a sonic landscape that leaves a lasting impact and invites you to explore the edges of sound design and synthesis.

🔥 Feel the sparks of creativity fly as you watch the full performance video of this stunning submission. Draw inspiration from Roby Deaton's ingenuity and love for the craft of synthesizer soundscapes.