Learn2Code: Python w/ Earsketch

Our all ages computer coding program continues through June and July with an intro to Python. This one ended up being a little more technologically challenging, but participants still enjoyed exploring EarSketch.

Program outline:

What is Python? General-purpose computer programming language
Used for: Web/game development, science, education, graphics

What is Earsketch? web-based tool for learning and crating
Demonstrates core topics in computer science, music, and music technology
Combines Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) with Applicaiton Programming Interface (API)

We took a look at some examples of music created using Earksetch

We discussed the iterative process: take your time, make small changes, listen and tweak.

The basic set-up for our code:

from earsketch import*
init()
setTempo (120)
finish()

Commenting in Python is denoted with #. We made sure to add some notes on the different components of the code:

#setup
from earsketch import*

init()
setTempo (120)

#music

#finish
finish()

The main piece of code we added, then copied and pasted:
fitMedia (clipName, trackNumber, startMeasure, endMeasure)

We also briefly worked with variables
snyth = HIPHOP_SYNTHPLUCKLEAD_005
fitMedia (synth, 1, 1, 5)

My intro took roughly 30 minutes and participants had no trouble filling the rest of the workshop with experimenting and learning more about the different aspects of Earsketch. I asked in the event ad for people to bring headphones, but I'm glad I picked up a few pairs from Dollar Tree to have on-hand.