DMLab Colchester - DIY Electronic Instruments

Experiment with building your own electronic instrument, with a custom MIDI controller!

At this months DMLab we'll play with simple circuits and Arduino programming to create custom interfaces to control computers, also known as MIDI controllers. Maybe yours will use a distance sensor, or perhaps big colourful buttons in a unique orientation? All equipment provided (including template arduino code). No prior knowledge needed.

Participants are welcome to bring their own laptop if they wish. Please note that this project is aimed at people age 18 and over, and all experience levels are welcome.

DMLab Colchester is an exciting collaboration between CLIP and Drake Music. For the next three years, from November 2025, we'll host monthly meet ups bringing together an inclusive community of makers and musicians on a regular basis, to support the development of new accessible musical instruments. DMLab Colchester is an inclusive, community-led space for musicians and creative technologists, disabled and nondisabled, to create, hack instruments, jam & explore new ways to make music. All experience levels are welcome. If you have any questions please contact steph@clipsoundandmusic.uk.

What happens at DMLab?

Each month the community bring their musicality, ideas, innovations, dreams, specific access needs and technical know-how. From this, amazing new musical instruments and projects will be conceived and developed. Each session will be different, from presentations to jam sessions, hack-a-thons to workshops, all of which will be led by the community.

These friendly get togethers are about coming up with, building and sharing new projects and music. New people are always welcome to join and be part of making music accessible.

Who is DMLab for?

DMLab is for musicians and makers. We use the word disabled as we are disabled-led however you do not need to identify as disabled to join us. Everyone is welcome and we will be led by our members who experience access barriers, including people who are Deaf, Blind, Disabled, or who have a condition, impairment or chronic illness.

Where is DMLab Colchester?

DMLab Colchester takes place at Firstsite, Colchester. There is step-free, level access throughout the building and 4 accessible parking spaces are available outside the main entrance on a first come, first served basis. There is also an additional drop-off area.

Assistance dogs are welcome, and there is a hearing loops is available. There are several disabled access toilets in the building, and there will be seating available at the event.

There will be plenty of opportunity to take breaks and you are very welcome to attend for the length of time that works for you.

There is space to let us know of any specific access needs when you book. Alternatively, please get in touch if you would like to to discuss further or need any more information at: steph@clipsoundandmusic.uk

Further details about venue accessibility can be found on the Firstsite website.