International convention explores software for artists and musicians

13-14 January - M4 User Convention brings together MAX software users at Leicester’s Phoenix Square

For the first time in the UK, Phoenix Square in Leicester will be hosting an international conference for artists, musicians, students and teachers to explore software which enables the development of unique sounds, stunning visuals and engaging interactive media.

Running from the 13-14th January from 10am - 6.30pm, the M4 Users Convention will bring together users of the popular programming software MAX, and its related programmes MSP, Jitter and Max for Live. The conference will be the first convention of its type held outside the US and will feature a keynote address by David Zicarelli, founder of Cycling ’74, the Californian company behind the software, as well as presentations and workshops from a range of international speakers. There will also be exhibitions and performances open to the public. Full details of the event are at http://maxuk.wordpress.com/

With its straightforward building-block approach to programming, MAX software enables people across a wide variety of disciplines to create exciting new work - musicians can create unique sound-making tools and instruments; artists can build installations which respond to viewer interaction; and exhibition designers can create educational exhibits which engage museum customers.

Instead of writing lines of code, MAX users simply plug together a series of objects – visual boxes that contain tiny programmes – to create interactive software. As a result, Max is has been used widely in universities around the world to teach subjects such as computer music, interactive and new media sound design. Due to its modular design, MAX allows third-party developers to make additions, which means the software has developed new uses and a strong community over its 20 year history.

“We want to bring together the growing MAX community outside of the US to share knowledge and raise awareness of the software’s potential,” comments Sean Carroll, organiser of the M4 User Convention. “But this is not just a convention for programmers – Max enables ordinary people to create amazing work – limited only by their imagination. With its focus on digital arts, Phoenix Square is the ideal venue for the event.”

Tickets for the Convention are priced at £40 for the full two days or £30 for one day. There are also concession prices and early-bird discounts.

About Cycling ‘74

Cycling '74 creates software for the specialized needs of artists, educators, and researchers working with audio, visual media, and physical computing. The company’s visual programming tools Max, MSP, Jitter, and Gen serve as the creative engine behind thousands of innovative projects. The company was formed in 1997 by David Zicarelli and has approximately 25 employees and consultants worldwide. More at cycling74.com

About Phoenix Square Film & Digital Media

Based in the heart of Leicester’s Cultural Quarter, Phoenix Square Film & Digital Media houses state of the art cinemas, digital gallery spaces, a cafe bar and film production facilities. It is an educational charity with a remit to enhance moving image and new media work. www.phoenix.org.uk