Events

CymaSpace and Universal Music Design Present #DeafJazz: The Jazz Prism Project - A Revolutionary Accessible Jazz Experience

CymaSpace, in partnership with Universal Music Design (UMD), is thrilled to announce The Jazz Prism Project, an innovative concert series designed to make the transformative power of jazz accessible to the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing (DHH) community. This groundbreaking event series will provide an immersive, multi-sensory jazz experience through visual and haptic technology, redefining the way audiences engage with music.

About the Jazz Prism Project

Funded by the prestigious South Arts Jazz Roads Tour grant, The Jazz Prism Project is a pioneering initiative that brings together cutting-edge jazz musicians and visionary DHH artists. Featuring the newly formed ensemble The Confluence, the project incorporates a fusion of technology and artistry to deliver an accessible jazz experience like no other.

The Confluence, led by vibraphonist Jake Chapman and saxophonist Tony Barba, combines the talents of deaf guitarist and CymaSpace founder Myles de Bastion, deaf music producer Nate Hergert, and percussionist Shawn Trail, alongside Universal Music Design’s lead engineer Dillon Simeone. Together, these musicians bring jazz to life through a unique blend of electro-acoustic soundscapes, audio-reactive visuals, and immersive haptics.

A Jazz Experience Reimagined for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing

Inspired by the work of renowned Deaf percussionist Evelyn Glennie, the project utilizes cutting-edge technology to make jazz accessible beyond auditory perception. With 27 channels of spatial haptics provided by Music: Not Impossible, DHH musicians and audience members can feel the music as it resonates through their bodies. Additionally, 50 Woojer haptic vests will be available for DHH attendees, allowing them to experience vibrations that mimic the nuances of jazz music, effectively using vibrations as “headphones.”

The Importance of Sonic Agency

The Jazz Prism Project is not just about providing access to music but about creating Sonic Agency for the DHH community. By enabling DHH individuals to feel, see, and engage with jazz in alternative ways, the project expands the concept of accessibility in the arts. Jazz has been a powerful medium of emotional resonance, political expression, and social connection, and this project ensures that the DHH community can partake in its transformative impact.

As #DeafJazz artists blend jazz, electro-acoustics, and innovative technology, they are pioneering a new genre of music that transcends hearing, allowing all individuals to experience jazz’s impact on the human spirit.

Tour Dates and Events

The Jazz Prism Project will tour across Oregon, offering a series of immersive concerts and educational workshops designed to deepen the connection between jazz and the DHH community:

  • December 5, 2024– Southern Oregon University (Closed Workshops for Honors College and Percussion Students)
  • December 6, 2024– Western Oregon University – Jazz Concert, 7 PM
  • December 7, 2024– Portland Community College – #DeafJazz Concert, 7 PM
  • December 8, 2024– Western Oregon University – Percussion Concert, 7 PM

Educational Workshops and Community Engagement

Each performance will be complemented by workshops and community sessions, providing participants an opportunity to engage hands-on with haptic technology, experience audio-reactive visuals, and explore new interfaces for musical expression. The workshops will be tailored to students and the DHH community, offering insight into the innovative technologies used and the artistic vision behind #DeafJazz.

Quotes from Organizers and Artists

“Jazz has historically been a medium for social change and cultural expression. Through the Jazz Prism Project, we’re ensuring that this rich art form is accessible to the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing community in a way that’s both meaningful and impactful,” says Myles de Bastion, founder of CymaSpace.

“This project embodies the mission of Universal Music Design, which is to make music accessible and inclusive. We’re using technology to break down barriers and redefine what it means to experience sound,” adds Dillon Simeone, lead design engineer at UMD.

About CymaSpace and Universal Music Design

CymaSpace is a non-profit organization dedicated to making arts and cultural events accessible to the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing community through innovative technology, education, and outreach. Universal Music Design, a team within CymaSpace, seeks to develop new interfaces, instruments, and methodologies to create universal music experiences that transcend auditory limitations.

Join Us for This Historic Event

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to experience jazz in a way that redefines accessibility and inclusivity. The Jazz Prism Project is set to become a milestone in accessible arts and a testament to the power of music to unite communities.

Media Contact:

Shawn Trail, Production Coordinator
Universal Music Design / CymaSpace
Phone: 541-829-2141
Email: shawn@universalmusicdesign.org

Haptic Zoo at Woodstock Cafe: A Sensory Success

The Haptic Zoo event at Woodstock Cafe, hosted by CymaSpace and Universal Music Design, was an outstanding success! Held on August 30, the event introduced attendees to a world where touch, sound, and technology seamlessly intersect. The cafe was buzzing with excitement as visitors had the unique opportunity to experience various haptic devices, including wearables and furniture, with the added magic of live music and interactive games.

Live Demos & Sensory Exploration Visitors enjoyed live demos of VibroSonics technology, which has been integrated into one of the benches, allowing participants to feel the sensation of music through vibrations. VibroSonics, led by Chet Udell, focuses on translating audio frequencies into tactile sensations, enabling Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) individuals to experience music and other auditory cues through vibrations. The system's encoding process, which was initially created by the Electrical Engineering and Computer Science teams, allows for a detailed and immersive touch-based experience. This device not only bridges the gap for DHH individuals but also offers a novel sensory experience for everyone.

Why VibroSonics Stands Out The VibroSonics system is powered by ESP32 microprocessors and an audio-to-haptic encoder algorithm. This enables the bench, along with other wearables showcased, to vibrate and pulse according to the music's rhythm and intensity. Using technology inspired by famous examples such as SubPac, the VibroSonics team focuses on creating devices that allow users to feel music through their skin, whether they are at a concert, a game, or simply enjoying music.

Bridging Communication Gaps with Haptics One of the event’s highlights was the focus on how haptics can assist the DHH community in overcoming communication barriers. By converting sound into vibrations, devices like the VibroSonics bench provide critical sensory cues, allowing Deaf individuals to "feel" their surroundings and participate in immersive environments.

With this successful event, CymaSpace and Universal Music Design continue to demonstrate their commitment to making arts, culture, and technology accessible to everyone, regardless of ability.

Join Us Next Time With such positive feedback from attendees, we're excited to continue exploring the endless possibilities of haptics and its role in accessibility. Stay tuned for future events, and come experience the beauty of music and touch for yourself!

Universal Music Design’s Jazz Road Tours: Bringing the Joy of Jazz to Deaf and Hard of Hearing Communities

We are thrilled to announce that Universal Music Design's (UMD) application for the Jazz Road Tours has been accepted! This unique opportunity allows us to bring the vibrant and expressive art form of jazz to various communities that are often underserved by the genre, particularly focusing on the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) communities.

What is Jazz Road Tours?

Jazz Road Tours is an artist-centric grant program designed to support approximately 50 tours each year. Funded by the Doris Duke Foundation with additional support from the Mellon Foundation, this initiative is dedicated to bringing jazz music to audiences across diverse and often rural settings, connecting artists with communities that may not typically have access to live jazz performances.

Our Tour Stops

UMD is honored to perform at the following locations, bringing our inclusive approach to jazz music to these wonderful venues:

  • Oregon School of the Deaf - A place where creativity thrives, and the students have a passion for the arts. We are excited to bring the experience of jazz, combined with our inclusive technologies, to this vibrant community.
  • Portland Community College - As one of the most diverse campuses in the state, PCC offers a perfect stage for our inclusive jazz performances, reaching a wide audience of students and faculty alike.
  • Washington School for the Deaf - Bringing our performance to the WSD aligns with our mission to make music accessible to all. This will be a special stop where we can connect deeply with the DHH community.
  • Western Oregon University - Known for its strong programs in education and the arts, WOU will be an incredible setting to showcase our work in combining jazz with accessibility.
  • Southern Oregon University - SOU is committed to cultural engagement and inclusion, making it an ideal venue for our tour.
  • Willamette University - With its strong liberal arts tradition, Willamette will provide a thoughtful audience ready to engage with our innovative approach to music and accessibility.

Why This Tour Matters

At Universal Music Design, our mission is to break down barriers in the arts, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their hearing ability, can experience the power and emotion of music. Through the Jazz Road Tours, we are not only spreading the joy of jazz but also raising awareness about the importance of accessibility in the arts.

We are beyond excited to embark on this journey and look forward to sharing our passion for jazz with communities across Oregon and Washington. Stay tuned for more updates as we prepare to hit the road and bring the magic of music to all!

Universal Music Design Secures RACC Grant for Album Production

We are excited to announce that Universal Music Design has been awarded a grant from the Regional Arts & Culture Council (RACC)! This funding will enable us to produce a groundbreaking album that embodies our commitment to accessibility and inclusivity in the arts.

About RACC

The Regional Arts & Culture Council (RACC) is a vital force in the creative economy of Greater Portland. As an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, RACC connects artists and creatives with opportunities and resources that promote artistic expression and cultural engagement. The council provides equitable funding and services to artists, manages a nationally acclaimed public art program, and builds community support through advocacy and partnership. RACC’s mission is to ensure that the arts and culture thrive in our region, making it an essential partner for UMD’s vision.

Our Album Project

With this generous support from RACC, UMD is embarking on an ambitious project to create an album that not only showcases the talents of Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) artists but also integrates cutting-edge technology to make music accessible to all. The album will feature a diverse range of musical genres, blending traditional instruments with innovative sound design, visual elements, and haptic feedback to create a multi-sensory experience.

This project aligns with UMD’s mission to make arts and cultural events accessible and inclusive. By producing this album, we aim to bridge the gap between the hearing and DHH communities, offering a platform where all voices can be heard and celebrated.

Why This Grant Matters

The RACC grant is a significant milestone for UMD, as it provides the necessary resources to bring our album project to life. This funding will allow us to collaborate with talented artists, invest in state-of-the-art equipment, and ensure that every aspect of the album is designed with accessibility in mind.

Moreover, the support from RACC reaffirms the importance of our work in the arts community. It highlights the growing recognition of the need for inclusive practices in the arts and serves as an inspiration for other organizations to follow suit.

What’s Next?

We are currently in the planning stages of the album, finalizing the tracklist, and designing the accessibility features. As we move forward, we will keep our community updated on the progress of the project and share sneak peeks of the creative process.

We are incredibly grateful to RACC for their belief in our vision and for providing us with the means to make this album a reality. Stay tuned for more updates as we work towards releasing an album that truly represents the spirit of inclusivity in the arts.

Universal Music Design Collaborates with Portland Community College to Promote Accessible Music

At Universal Music Design, we are dedicated to fostering inclusivity in the arts by making music accessible to the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) community. Recently, we had the privilege of collaborating with Portland Community College's Music and Sonic Arts Creative Capstone course on their art gallery installation, "The Third Thing."

Our involvement in this project was part of our ongoing mission to educate the community on integrating accessibility into music creation. The capstone course provided an invaluable platform for students to learn about and implement strategies for making music more inclusive for the DHH community. Through hands-on experience and innovative approaches, these students are now equipped to continue creating accessible music beyond the course.

One of the key outcomes of this collaboration is the increased awareness and commitment among the students to prioritize accessibility in their musical endeavors. We are confident that the knowledge and skills they have gained will have a lasting impact, promoting a more inclusive musical landscape.

Looking ahead, our commitment to this cause remains strong. This fall, Dillon Simeone, our deaf lead design engineer, will be enrolling at Portland Community College as a pilot student in the same capstone program. The goal is to pioneer new paths for the DHH community, ensuring that accessibility improvements continue to be a central focus in music education and creation.

We are excited about the future and the potential for further collaborations that enhance accessibility in the arts. Stay tuned for more updates on our initiatives and projects aimed at making music an inclusive experience for all.

UMD Breaks Boundaries: Research Paper Accepted by NIME Conference

We're thrilled to announce that Universal Music Design's groundbreaking research paper, "GestoLumina: Gesture Interpreted Light, Sound, and Haptics. Towards a Framework for Universal Music Design," has been accepted by the prestigious New Interfaces for Musical Expression (NIME) conference!

This achievement marks a significant milestone for UMD, considering our relatively small size in comparison to other participants. NIME is renowned for showcasing cutting-edge research and innovation in the field of musical interface design, making our acceptance a testament to the quality and impact of our work.

NIME brings together researchers and musicians from across the globe to exchange ideas and share their latest discoveries in new musical interface design. Originating as a workshop at the Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems (CHI) in 2001, NIME has since evolved into an annual series of international conferences hosted by leading research groups dedicated to interface design, human-computer interaction, and computer music.

Our paper's acceptance underscores UMD's commitment to pushing the boundaries of accessibility and innovation in music technology. We're proud to be contributing to the global conversation on new interfaces for musical expression, and we look forward to sharing our insights and discoveries with the broader research community at NIME.

Bridging Innovation: UMD Collaborates with Creative Coding and Immersive Technologies Capstone Course

The UMD team is thrilled to announce a groundbreaking collaboration with the Creative Coding and Immersive Technologies capstone course at Portland Community College. Spearheaded by Professor Jesse Mejía, this partnership promises to push the boundaries of creativity and technology, offering students a unique opportunity to bring their projects to life with guidance from industry experts.

Set against the backdrop of Portland Community College's art gallery, the upcoming art installation promises to captivate audiences with its innovative approach to immersive experiences. At its center stands a towering tree, crafted from thick cables and technological scraps, adorned with CRT TVs displaying live streams of animals from around the world. This mesmerizing display embodies the intersection of art, technology, and nature, inviting viewers to explore and engage with the wonders of the natural world in a dynamic and interactive setting.

Guiding the students on their journey is Dillon, whose expertise in embedded hardware and years of experience in the field serve as a valuable resource for the aspiring creators. His insights and advice have been instrumental in shaping the vision for the project, providing students with invaluable guidance as they navigate the complexities of their capstone course. Professor Mejía notes that Dillon's past projects serve as a constant source of inspiration for the students, fueling their enthusiasm and drive to push the boundaries of creativity.

As the collaboration between UMD and the Creative Coding and Immersive Technologies capstone course unfolds, anticipation builds for the unveiling of the art installation. Together, they are breaking new ground in the realm of immersive experiences, fostering innovation and creativity among the next generation of technologists and artists. With each step forward, they are reshaping the landscape of interactive art and technology, creating a legacy that will inspire and captivate audiences for years to come.

Empowering Futures: Uplifting Experiences at the Career Carnival Expo

Dillon and Nate, the dynamic duo from Universal Music Design (UMD), recently made waves at the Career Carnival Expo hosted at the Oregon State School for the Deaf. With a shared passion for innovation and empowerment, they set up a booth that left a lasting impression on students ranging from elementary to high school.

The Career Carnival Expo aimed to expose students to successful deaf figures and diverse career opportunities, igniting their curiosity and ambition for the future. Dillon and Nate's booth stood out as a beacon of creativity and technology amidst the array of exhibits. Featuring reactive lights and an engaging high-tech game called BeatMonsters, their booth captivated the imagination of all who visited.

BeatMonsters, crafted by Dillon himself, showcased his journey from college to his current role as a lead design engineer. Students were awestruck by the intricacies of the game and inspired by Dillon's ability to overcome challenges through technology. As they navigated through levels filled with monsters and hazards, they discovered the power of perseverance and innovation.

Meanwhile, Nate showcased the revolutionary Woojer Vest3s, offering attendees a glimpse into the world of spatial haptics for the first time. With minds blown and senses heightened, students and visitors experienced music in a whole new dimension, thanks to Nate's dedication to accessibility and inclusivity.

Amidst the hustle and bustle of the expo, Dillon and Nate's interactions with students echoed the spirit of empowerment and possibility. Through their stories and demonstrations, they instilled a sense of confidence and aspiration in the next generation of leaders and innovators.

Universal Music Design Unboxes Cutting-Edge Tech for Revolutionary Music Experience

Universal Music Design (UMD) recently had an exciting unboxing day where they unveiled a plethora of innovative technologies aimed at revolutionizing the music experience. Among the highlights were the Woojer Vest3 Haptics, RF transmitter and receivers, Woojer Edge Haptics, Electrospit, and 16x mixer Behringer.

One of the most awe-inspiring discoveries of the day was the power and longevity of the Woojer Vest3. Its immersive haptic feedback capabilities left the UMD team amazed, coupled with its impressive battery lifespan. The team immediately saw the potential for integrating this technology into their projects to provide an unparalleled music experience for both deaf and hearing individuals.

The 16x mixer Behringer also caught the team's attention, as they realized its potential for enhancing haptic experiences in a manner similar to traditional audio mixing in recording studios. By leveraging these mixers, UMD aims to elevate haptic music production to new heights, offering users a dynamic and immersive musical journey.

Shawn Trail, PhD, expressed his excitement about the novel experience of feeling music in the same way it's heard. With the integration of cutting-edge haptic technologies, Shawn noted that his ears are getting a well-deserved break, while still enjoying the full richness of the musical experience.

Myles de Bastion, Director of CymaSpace and a nearly blind and deaf individual, also shared his enthusiasm for the new technologies. In a video embedded in the playlist above, Myles can be seen experimenting with haptic guitar solos on the Woojer Vest3, showcasing the transformative potential of these advancements in music technology.

With the unboxing of these groundbreaking technologies, Universal Music Design is poised to continue pushing the boundaries of music accessibility and innovation, ushering in a new era of inclusive and immersive musical experiences for all.

UMD Workshop at Portland Community College: Igniting Creativity in Music and Sonic Arts

Universal Music Design (UMD) recently conducted an engaging workshop at Portland Community College for the Music and Sonic Arts program. This program caters to musicians, artists, and designers passionate about exploring contemporary and future-facing tools, methods, and mindsets for sonic composition, performance, production, and design.

UMD's workshop added a unique dimension to the Music and Sonic Arts program by introducing innovative technologies and methodologies aimed at enhancing accessibility and inclusivity in music. Participants had the opportunity to learn about our groundbreaking GestoLumina framework and its applications in expanding the boundaries of sonic expression for diverse communities.

The Music and Sonic Arts program at Portland Community College is renowned for its supportive environment and commitment to pushing the boundaries of music and sound through contemporary and emerging technologies. UMD's workshop aligned perfectly with the program's values, emphasizing the importance of embracing diversity and envisioning the transformative power of music, sound, and technology in driving positive social change.

We're grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with Portland Community College's Music and Sonic Arts program and look forward to continuing our shared journey of exploration and innovation in music and sonic arts.

DJwish Brings Vibrant Music Experience to Deaf2Deaf Experience Event

Nate, also known as DJwish, recently embarked on a memorable journey to Tacoma, Washington, to participate in the Deaf2Deaf Experience JA BizTown event. As a passionate advocate for accessibility and inclusion in music, Nate seized the opportunity to showcase his talents as a Deaf DJ and connect with students from across Oregon and Washington.

The Deaf2Deaf Experience event, organized by Junior Achievement, aims to empower young individuals who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and Deaf-Blind by providing them with essential skills in work readiness, entrepreneurship, and financial literacy. Partnering with organizations like the Department of Social and Health Services’ Division of Vocational Rehabilitation and the Washington Center for Deaf & Hard of Hearing Youth, the event creates a dynamic platform for students to explore and navigate the opportunities and challenges of the 21st-century workforce.

Amidst the vibrant atmosphere of the event, Nate brought his unique blend of music and energy to the students, serving as DJwish. His presence not only entertained but also inspired, showcasing the possibilities of pursuing a career in music regardless of hearing abilities. Through his performances, Nate fostered a sense of unity and empowerment among the students, encouraging them to embrace their passions and aspirations.

One of the highlights of the event was Nate's opportunity to connect with influential leaders within the Deaf community from both Oregon and Washington. These interactions laid the groundwork for future collaborations and initiatives under the umbrella of Universal Music Design (UMD). As UMD strives to break down barriers in music accessibility and promote inclusivity, Nate's presence at the Deaf2Deaf Experience event symbolized a commitment to building bridges and fostering a supportive community for Deaf individuals in the realm of music.

Nate's participation in the Deaf2Deaf Experience JA BizTown event served as a testament to the power of music to transcend boundaries and unite communities. Through his passion, talent, and advocacy, Nate continues to make meaningful contributions to the advancement of accessibility and inclusion in the world of music, leaving a lasting impact on all who have the pleasure of experiencing his artistry.

UMD Workshop at Central State of Mind: Empowering Through Technology and Storytelling

Universal Music Design (UMD) had the privilege of hosting a workshop at the Central State of Mind: A Catholic Social Justice and Human Dignity Conference. This transformative two-day event, now in its fifth year, focuses on cultural humility, social awareness, and human dignity. With the theme "The Power of Storytelling: Grounding In The Experiences that Connect Us," the conference provided a platform for the Central Catholic community to engage, dialogue, and reflect on important issues.

UMD's workshop delved into the intersection of technology, accessibility, and storytelling. We showcased our innovative GestoLumina framework, designed to enhance accessibility in music and culture for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) community. Additionally, we explored the broader impact of technology on fostering inclusivity and empowerment.

Both workshops were recorded and are now available on our YouTube channel, ensuring that the insights and discussions shared at the event can continue to reach and inspire others beyond the conference walls. We're grateful for the opportunity to contribute to such an impactful event and look forward to future collaborations in promoting social justice and human dignity through technology and storytelling.

Harmony in Collaboration: UMD Joins CymaSpace for Winter Light Festival

Universal Music Design is thrilled to announce a harmonious collaboration with CymaSpace for the upcoming Winter Light Festival. Join us as we bring the magic of music and light to life in the immersive setting of CymaSpace's new deaf-friendly coffee cafe.

This exciting venture combines UMD's expertise in innovative music accessibility with CymaSpace's dedication to creating inclusive environments. Together, we aim to transform the Winter Light Festival into a sensory-rich experience for all attendees, transcending auditory boundaries and fostering a sense of community through the universal language of music.

Central State of Mind Conference: Music Workshop at Central Catholic High School with UMD

Exciting news! Universal Music Design (UMD) is bringing a special workshop to Central Catholic High School on February 15, as part of the Central State of Mind Conference: Music Workshop. Led by UMD's Program Director, Nate Hergert, students will have the opportunity to explore the innovative fusion of music, technology, and accessibility right at their school. Get ready for a unique sonic journey at Central Catholic High School!

Exciting News: UMD Presents at NIME 2024

We're thrilled to announce that Universal Music Design (UMD) will be presenting a paper at the prestigious New Interfaces for Musical Expression (NIME) 2024 conference. NIME is an international platform dedicated to exploring new musical interfaces, their artistic applications, and the underlying technologies driving their development. Researchers from across the globe gather to share their latest findings and innovations in the field. This year, UMD will be showcasing our groundbreaking work on GestoLumina, a revolutionary framework designed to enhance accessibility in music and culture for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) community. Stay tuned for updates on our presentation at NIME 2024!

Collbaration between Universal Music Design and Not Impossible

Breaking Barriers in Music Accessibility! Universal Music Design (UMD) is excited to unveil an unprecedented partnership with Not Impossible, a frontrunner in Vibrotextile™ wearable technology. Drawing inspiration from the deaf community, Not Impossible's cutting-edge technology transforms sound into tactile sensations, offering users an unparalleled and intricate music encounter.

Not Impossible was captivated by UMD's pioneering work and expressed interest in partnering for a special show. What makes this collaboration even more impactful is that UMD's members are deaf/hard of hearing and use sign language, aligning perfectly with Not Impossible's targeted audience for their technology.

In a gesture of support and collaboration, Not Impossible will be providing Universal Music Design (UMD) members participating in the show with loaner Not Impossible haptic gears. This generous contribution will enhance the immersive experience for performers, enabling them to further connect with the music through tactile feedback. Get ready for an unforgettable showcase of innovation and inclusivity!

CymaSpace brings music to deaf and hard-of-hearing communities

Through haptics technology and a recent grant, the Portland nonprofit expands its mission to make music more accessible

OCF Invests $1 Million in Visionary Oregon Arts and Culture Projects

Fourteen Grantees Building Community by Elevating Underrepresented Voices and Increasing Access to Arts Experiences Across Oregon

Exciting Beginnings: Confluence and UMD Unveil a New Sonic Era

We are thrilled to announce the inception of Confluence Recording Company alongside the groundbreaking Universal Music Design (UMD). This dynamic duo marks the beginning of a new chapter in the realm of music accessibility, innovation, and inclusivity.

Confluence Recording Company, founded by partners Nate Hergert and Shawn Trail, PhD, is not just a recording studio – it's a creative haven where state-of-the-art audio production meets visionary research and development. Nate Hergert's role as a Deaf Music Producer and Shawn Trail, PhD's expertise in percussionist artistry, music production, and computer science set the stage for a unique convergence of talents.

Paired with Confluence's launch, UMD, under Nate Hergert's leadership, is set to redefine how we experience dance and music. The collaboration extends beyond the studio walls, aiming to make cultural events universally accessible through technology, education, and outreach.

As these ventures join forces, the possibilities for groundbreaking projects, collaborations, and inclusive events are boundless. Follow our news section for updates, insights, and glimpses into this exciting journey as Confluence and UMD set the stage for a sonic revolution. Welcome to the beginning of a new era in music exploration and accessibility!