B-Side | Music Production Residency 

Key information

Dates: 16th to 26th October 2024
Venue: Goa
Facilitated by Zequenx
Intake: 
8
Deadline:
15th September 2024

About

B-side is an initiative by Serendipity Arts centred around independent music and cultural currents stemming from contemporary music practices. The programme strives to spark conversations around music production, DJ-ing, research, performances, educational modules, and collaborative sonic explorations focussed on emerging acts across South Asia.

Unlock Your Sound is a 10-day immersive residency designed to empower aspiring music producers by equipping them with innovative music-making techniques and creative expression. Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of Ableton Live 12, starting with hands-on tutorials that cover software tools, features, and basic setup procedures. They will learn to create tracks from scratch, exploring beat-making, melody crafting, and sound design. The residency delves into composition and arrangement techniques, effective recording practices, and the essentials of mixing and mastering to produce polished final tracks. Workshops on music distribution, promotional strategies, and online presence will prepare participants to release and present their music effectively. Engaging with the electronic music community, participants will explore industry trends and networking opportunities. The program culminates with the participants presenting their work and reflecting on their learning experience.

RESIDENCY FACILITATOR

Zequenx (Zainab Wani)

In a world defined by stark dichotomies, Zequenx is the embodiment of the grey area, striving to integrate non-duality into electronic music. Born in Kashmir, raised in Chiang Mai, and now based in Goa, Zainab Wani draws from her diverse cultural background to offer a distinct perspective on the art of rave. Having deep roots in psychedelic and pop culture, her music draws from, and combines various schools of thought. This makes it difficult to define , forever existing in the quantum realm of infinite possibilities.

She wears many hats – DJ, music producer, Ableton Certified Trainer – but above all, she is a passionate raver. Whether she’s dishing out dancefloor heaters through her DJ sets or weaving her personal blend of emotive ambient productions with her live sets, Zequenx has one goal: to create a journey that allows the listener to step outside of the mundane musings of their mind and and traverse through uncharted sonic dimensions. Whether it’s acid, electro, various forms of techno or experimental music, she dives in head first to deliver an immersive experience for her fellow listeners.

As an Ableton Certified Trainer, Zequenx has spent the past 6 years mastering the intricacies of music production and is passionate about sharing her knowledge with like-minded individuals. She has organised numerous workshops focusing on DJing and music production as a means to provide access and create space for FLINTA artists along with offering one-on-one training sessions for aspiring musicians. Her singles have been released on homegrown labels like Qilla Records, Antariksh Records, Boxout.fm Recordings, Digital Diaspora Records, FOL Records and international imprints like Avoidant Records (a sub-label of SOMA records) and Reel Long Overdub from the UK. Zequennx has performed at festivals like DGTL in Amsterdam, Celtronic in UK, Magnetic Fields Festival, VH1 Supersonic, Boxout Weekender, Hilltop Festival & Far Out Left in India.

MODULES

  • Introduction to Ableton Live
  • Fundamentals of the Physics of Sound
  • Basic Concepts and Navigation in Ableton Live
  • Analog Mixer Workflow
  • Using MIDI and Instruments
  • MIDI Effects and Music Theory
  • Using Audio Samples and Audio Effects
  • Applying Effects and Sound Design Techniques
  • Creating Rhythms and using Drum Racks
  • Advanced MIDI Techniques
  • Arrangement and Structure
  • Automation and Advanced Arrangement Techniques
  • The Fundamentals of Mixing
  • Mastering and Finalization
  • One-on -One and Peer Reviews & Feedback

FAQs

  • Is there an age eligibility for the residency?
    Yes, applicants must be 18 years or above.

  • What are the dates for the residency?
    The residency will be held between 16th October to 26th October 2024.

  • Do I have to be a Musician/Producer to apply for the residency?
    No, the residency is open to individuals of all skill levels, including beginners with no background in music production.

  • Are there any prerequisites for the residency?
    You’ll be required to have a laptop with 8GB RAM Laptop and headphones.

  • Is the Residency open to only Indian Citizens?
    No, the residency is open to all residing in India.

  • Where is the residency going to be held?
    The B-side residency will be held in Goa. Exact venue shall be shared after selection.

  • How many participants will be selected?
    8 participants will be selected for the residency by a Jury.

  • Would I have a place to stay?
    Yes, all the participants will be provided with shared accommodation, along with all meals.

  • What does the schedule of the residency look like?
    Sessions will be scheduled through the 10–day residency, and would include lectures, practical sessions, artist presentations, and demonstrations.

  • Will my travel to the venue be covered?
    No, you have to cover costs for travel to and back from Goa.

  • What level of music production will the residency be catering to?
    The modules shall cater to a beginner-intermediate level of music production.

  • What DAW would be required for the Programme?
    Ableton Live 12 would be used throughout the residency.