Change comes when impressed individuals begin seeing obstacles as alternatives. That’s what occurred to Natalie Robehmed, the author and musician behind Feminist Synth Lab — a synth lending library and workshop sequence catering to marginalized genders in Los Angeles.
Within the newest episode of Present Up, Robehmed recounts her entry into L.A.’s thriving EDM music scene, an area she describes as “freed from restriction” the place creators are inspired to experiment with boundaries and produce one thing “new and funky.” Sadly, that freedom got here with caveats. Too usually, male-dominated industries like music manufacturing hinder progress by the use of gatekeeping, one thing Robehmed skilled first-hand. Bored with the gear purism, misogyny, and mansplaining, she determined to associate with some pals to construct a neighborhood for individuals like herself — girls and nonbinary creatives desperate to make music on their very own phrases. That’s how Feminist Synth Lab was born.
“There was no place to go to find out about these things that was woman-centered and kind of opening and welcoming to us,” Robehmed says. The group hosted a workshop and Robehmed was blown away by her neighborhood’s urge for food for this type of artistic house. She deliberate extra lessons and opened a lending library the place individuals may hire out gear — microphones, sequencers, amps, and spin tables — with a small deposit.
“It’s so costly to even get began in music manufacturing,” she explains. “The concept happened to really mortgage out devices, like library books, the place you possibly can take it house with you.”
With assist from others within the music neighborhood who donated tools, constructed web sites, and unfold the phrase on social media, Feminist Synth Lab was even in a position to thrive through the pandemic, when in-person workshops had been restricted and music creators lacked the monetary means to purchase their very own devices. Now, seven years after Robehmed helped launch the group’s workshop sequence, Feminist Synth Lab has grow to be a mecca for artists of marginalized genders hoping to additional their musical training and break into the world of music manufacturing.
“My hope and dream is that each metropolis may have a useful resource like this,” Robehmed shares. “That individuals may see this and say, ‘Hey, you realize what, I really can exit and begin one thing with my pals.’”
To listen to extra about Robehmed and Feminist Synth Lab’ journey, watch the complete episode above.
