Punch Card Loops: Digital Compositions for Acoustic Music Boxes
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
Saturday June 6
1 - 4pm
Free
Facilitated by: Tobias Ewé
This hands-on workshop is an introduction to composing melodies with music boxes, through the lens of experimental music and computer history. You will learn how to create your own melodies by punching holes into a strip of paper that can be played through a small hand-cranked music box. At the end of the workshop, everyone is invited to perform (and record!) their compositions.
While music boxes are often thought of as children's toys, the technology has a rich history stretching back to the once-commonplace player piano. In this workshop, you will be introduced to this history as well as the use of punch cards in early computing and its relevance to today’s MIDI instruments. We will learn how the music box is therefore simultaneously digital and acoustic, while exploring how we can use these properties in our compositions.
No knowledge of music theory or prior musical skills are required! All materials are provided—if you can use a hole punch, you can make music. Aside from creating short melodies on strips of paper, you will also learn how to make loops; how different materials affect resonance; and the use of tempo as a compositional tool.
Facilitated by Tobias Ewé who teaches at the Faculty of Information and Media Studies at University of Western Ontario, and recently completed their PhD in Art History and Theory at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver. Their research investigates the history and philosophy of sound art and technology since the Cold War. Alongside their academic work, Ewé has composed and performed acoustic computer music that questions the materiality of digital culture and human-machine assemblages. In recent undergraduate courses like “Digital Music” and "Introduction to Creative Arts,” Ewé has helped students demystify technology and expand their understanding of experimental art practices. Sharing knowledge and community-building has always been a crucial part of their academic and creative practices.
