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products that make the often-complicated world of modular synths approachable, ex- citing, and, most importantly, fun for young learners. Designed with both students and educators in mind, these tools bridge the gap between technology and creativity, making it easier than ever to explore the limitless possibilities of sound design. As electronic music and digital produc- tion are increasingly dominating the sound of popular music, Erica Synths’ approach is not only timely but essential. It provides a pathway for students to engage with new technology, transforming curiosity into creativity. The mastermind behind Erica Synths is founder and president Girts Ozolins, whose vision of music technology transcends the tradi- tional boundaries of synthesizer manufacturing. Ozolins is deeply committed to fostering a new generation of modular enthusiasts, and his emphasis on DIY kits exemplifies this passion. “In my early teenage years, I started DIY electronics as a hobby, and back then, there were no components available because Soviet Union electronic supplies were very limited,” Ozolins said. “I sourced components by disas- sembling old radios and TVs, and I navigated to electronic music instruments. I dropped this hobby because the market opened and electronics became available, and I became a teacher. Around 2010, I decided to build a small electronics constructor for my son, and I built small boxes with electronic components so he could interconnect those and learn how to build electronic circuits. I built a monster-sized Frankenstein form-factor modular system, and then I developed my own DIY kits and started selling them.” Ozolins has always prioritized the creation of instruments that not only deliver high-quality sound, but also provide a quality user experi- ence. The company’s focus on durability, design and performance sets Erica Synths apart in the world of modular synthesis. “We have always been famous for excep- tional build quality,” Ozolins said. “We create instruments with exceptional user interfaces
By focusing on accessible, hands-on learning, Erica Synths is helping to inspire the next generation of innovators in music. These educational tools are empowering young musicians to break free from traditional learning methods, letting them experiment and discover new ways of expression. — By Kimberly Kapela EMPOWERING FUTURE MUSICIANS Main: Erica Synths’ founder Girts Ozolins. Inset: Ozolins instructs during one of the music tech sessions.
H ave you ever wondered what the future of accessible music education looks like? Erica Synths, a Latvia-based company known for its innovative approach to modular synthesis, is reimagining music education by focusing on hands-on, accessible tools that bring the next generation into the world of sound creation.
Its latest educationally focused products reflect a growing movement toward clarify- ing modular synthesis and inspiring future musicians, producers and sound designers. Modular synthesis is being reimagined through a fresh lens as Erica Synths has launched a series of educationally minded
14 I MUSIC INC. I DECEMBER 2024
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