This is a course on designing physical interfaces for electronic music-making. Using design thinking methods, students will work in groups to develop a concept and functioning prototype for a physical music-making device.

The course structure will be split between lecture-based input to help students gain an understanding on electronic music-making and hardware interface design and practical, hands-on exercises to help students define a context, user-base, technical framework and concept for their projects. A large part of the class time will be spent on developing and building a physical prototype for their final project.

Besides scheduled class time there will be opportunities for students go on field trips to industry events, talk with industry leaders, and do studio visits to further learn about electronic instrument design. The course is open to both product design and interface design students, in hopes that the two can work together to build a functioning, physical prototype. No prior knowledge or experience in music is necessary. The course will be taught in English (though discussion and presentations in German is also welcome).