Synth Library Portland

Mission

Synth Library Portland is a collectively run non-profit centering low-cost community access to electronic music gear and education for Portland, OR.

Bottom Line for Portland

Synth Library Portland empowers people by providing equipment, knowledge, and opportunities to experiment and create.

After losing our physical space due to COVID we pivoted to launch our gear lending library, and in 2023 hosted over 45 workshops, performances, and community events throughout the city.  

Library members can check out synthesizers, keyboards, guitar pedals, books and other resources for two-week periods.  

We bring the tools of electronic music to new people, especially to those who are marginalized or otherwise face barriers to accessing such resources.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Each lending cycle in our gear library has a priority window for self-identified QTBIPOC members, whereby they have first pick of checking out items. When possible, we offer two full QTBIPOC scholarships per workshop.

Low-cost access to resources is a cornerstone of our organization, and no one who wants to join our lending library is turned away for lack of funds.

Incentives

All donors will automatically be entered to win a 4ms Stereo Triggered Sampler (courtesy of 4ms) and a 1010 Music Fireball (courtesy of Control Voltage). 

Partner(s)

Control Voltage is partnering with Synth Library Portland to host regular workshops, including Intro to Synthesis classes. Stay tuned for workshop dates via our Instagram, newsletter, and https://synthlibraryportland.com/Upcoming-Events 

Explore more electronic music instruments at https://www.controlvoltage.net/ 

We’ve also partnered with My Voice Music, a non-profit that amplifies young voices and promotes self-discovery through music. Be sure to attend  their Youth Music Showcase on December 10th. https://myvoicemusic.org/