Sound Sensing & Instrument Building Workshop

Join Ed Devane, founder of Soniphorm, to explore hidden vibrations, turn everyday objects into instruments, and create improvised sound.

Contact microphones are simple devices that sense vibrations when attached to an object, transforming them into amplified sound. The Soniphorm Smart Contact Mic takes this idea further, adding programmable audio effects, looping and more through a custom circuit board and a simple modular patching app.

Armed with headphones and a Smart Contact Mic, participants will explore different materials and surfaces, listening closely to the hidden vibrations around them – a bit like using a microscope for sound. They will then experiment with turning everyday resonant objects such as springs, rubber bands and combs into playable instruments.

To finish the workshop, these newly created instruments will be amplified through monitor speakers for a collaborative improvised performance, led by sound artist and Smart Contact Mic designer Ed Devane.

Ed Devane is the founder of Soniphorm, a company specialising in creative sonic exploration through listening devices and interactive experiences. As a workshop facilitator he has worked with many organisations in Ireland and abroad, immersing participants in instrument building and sound craft.