FAQs

What is a commons?

Commons are broadly defined as shared resources, governed by a community of their users. Often used to describe bodies of land or water that are used and shared by many, the idea of a commons has extended to digital, cultural, and social spaces. Our hope is that Found Sound Commons becomes a place to find like-minded musicians and sound-makers who are centering their art as civic and social practice.

Who are courses for? Do I need to be a professional musician?

No. The Commons is for anyone who makes, teaches, organizes around, or simply loves sound: professional artists, hobbyists, educators, community organizers, and the curious. If you’re drawn to music as a civic and social practice, you belong here.

What’s the difference between Labs, Masterclasses, and Workshops?

Workshops are single-session, 90 minutes in length, focused on a defined topic, often with optional follow-on discussion and listening sessions.

Masterclasses are single-session, 60-minute sessions led by a recognized artist or industry figure, offering a window into their practice.

Labs are multi-week sequences (typically 4 to 6 sessions) designed for deeper, sustained engagement with a body of skills or practice.

What does “All Levels” mean?

All courses are open to participants at any career stage and any level of technical experience, unless otherwise noted. If prior knowledge or specific tools are required, this is stated in the course description.

What language are courses taught in?

All courses are conducted in English unless otherwise indicated.

What platform are sessions held on?

All sessions take place on Zoom. You’ll receive a link when you register, and again before each session. No Zoom account or paid subscription is needed: just the free version and a stable internet connection.

Do I need any specific materials or software?

Most courses require nothing beyond a computer, internet connection, and an open mind and ear. Where specific software or instruments are needed (for example, Ableton Live for Ableton for Non-Producers), this is noted in the course description.

What if I have access needs?

We want the platform to work for you. Live captioning and materials in advance are things we can arrange; if what you need isn’t on that list, please let us know. Commons courses happen live at a set time, but recordings will be available if the schedule doesn’t work for you. We’re not able to provide ASL interpretation at this time, though becoming more accessible is something we’re actively working toward. Email commons@foundsoundnation.org before the course begins (or anytime during) so we can set things up properly.

How much do courses cost, and how do I register?

Pricing for each course is listed on the courses page, along with a registration link. If cost is a barrier, see the question below. We’d rather have you in the room.

Do you offer scholarships or reduced pricing?

Not yet, but we’re actively working toward it. If cost is a barrier, email commons@foundsoundnation.org. We’ll do what we can, and hearing from you helps us build the case for funded spots.

What’s your refund policy?

If you can no longer attend, email commons@foundsoundnation.org at least 48 hours before the course begins for credit toward a future course. If we cancel or reschedule a course, you’ll receive a full refund or the option to transfer your registration. Because recordings are shared with all registered participants, we’re not able to offer refunds after a course has taken place.

Are sessions recorded?

Yes, all live sessions are recorded and shared with registered participants. Optional follow-on discussions and listening sessions may not be recorded; check the course description.

What if I can’t attend a session in a multi-session Lab?

Recordings of missed sessions will be available. We strongly encourage live attendance for the discussion-based portions, where peer exchange is part of the value.

How long will I have access to recordings?

Recordings are shared with registered participants within 48 hours of each session and remain available for one year after the course ends.

Can I share my registration or recordings with others?

Registrations and recordings are for the registered participant only. The Commons runs on trust and on fees that keep this work sustainable. If you know someone who’d love to join the Commons or sign up for a course, send them our way instead.

Is there a code of conduct?

Yes. The Commons is a shared space, and it only works if everyone can participate fully and safely. We ask all participants to engage with generosity and respect across differences in background, genre, skill level, and perspective. Harassment or discrimination of any kind isn’t tolerated. You can read the full code of conduct. If something happens in a session that doesn’t sit right, email commons@foundsoundnation.org. We’ll take it seriously.

Can I propose or teach a course?

Yes. A commons is shaped by its community, and we want to hear what you’d offer or what you wish existed. Email commons@foundsoundnation.org with your idea. We can’t program everything, but every proposal helps shape our future seasons.