L.A.D.S.R.

L.A.D.S.R. (Los Angeles Department of Synthesizer Redistribution) is a FREE Synthesizer library, a space for inclusive and educational programming, and a Used Synthesizer shop dedicated to challenging the expensive, opaque, and overall exclusive nature of the electronic music world.  I believe that EVERYONE deserves equal access to not only quality electronic music equipment but the informational resources to operate them.  The Los Angeles music scene may never live up to its full potential until no creative person is left behind. 

 Operationally, L.A.D.S.R. has a multifaceted approach to directly address the historic barriers that exist in the electronic music world:

- FREE Synthesizer Library - The most important aspect of L.A.D.S.R. is it's free synthesizer library.  Members will have the ability to check out a wide variety of synths, drum machines, and samplers for FREE.  This will enable people to learn, enjoy, and record without the pressures of spending a lot of money on a synth they are not yet familiar with.  L.A.D.S.R. members will also have an open line to the staff for any questions concerning the gear they checked out.  Check out will last a week and members will have the option of extending for a second week.  While there is currently 10 synths in the library, funds raised will go a long way in expanding and maintaining the inventory while ensuring people will not have to wait extensive periods for synths to be available. 

- Educational Workshops - There will be a rotational crew of local artists and musicians  who will lead educational workshops.  These educational workshops will include instructional classes on hardware (desktop synths, modular synths, recording hardware), software (recording software, soft synths, plug-ins, max msp, etc.), gear repair, electronic music theory and critique, visual effects, audio production, sound design, and many more.  These workshops will operate on a "no one turned away for lack of funds" model.  Further, there will be classes specifically for children to promote experimental listening and synthesis among the youth.  L.A.D.S.R. will remain open to submissions for new classes.  Further, L.A.D.S.R. will have a functional Recording Station with which staff will help anyone who does not have the hardware/software at home to record their own music.  Finished and exported tracks will be emailed to the member and may also be used in any mixing or mastering workshops.  This service will be free and booked as time slots.  Further anyone using the recording station will have access to any library inventory currently in the shop.

- Used Gear Selection - L.A.D.S.R. will curate a comprehensive inventory of used gear.  This will provide an environmentally friendly and more affordable option than continuously buying new.  Los Angeles is in dire need of a used synthesizer shop in which people can buy and sell their gear.  This will eventually evolve to include a repair department to combat the environmental footprint that synthesizer manufacturing creates.  Further it will give people an alternative option to buying new when their equipment breaks.