Introduction to Soundpainting: fundamental signs, syntax and principles of interpretation

Course Presentation – Bloc 1: Introduction to Soundpainting

This training, which will take place from October 26 to 30, 2026, will teach the fundamentals of Soundpainting, a universal gestural language dedicated to real-time composition for music (instruments and voice). Based on Walter Thompson’s Workbook 1, it covers:

• Syntax (sentence structure, sequences, time management),
• Mastering the movements (neutral position, active box, imaginary staff),
• Interpreting and directing sessions as a Performer or Soundpainter,
• A clear explanation of the principles of the language and the initiation of a group.

Level 1 certification awarded by a jury composed of Walter Thompson, François Jeanneau.

Target audience: Musicians, teachers and creators wishing to explore innovative perspectives in collective creation, real-time composition and musical mediation.

CALL FOR APPLICATIONS – Soundpainting Level 1 Training

Introduction to Soundpainting: fundamental signs, syntax and principles of interpretation

From October 26 to 30, 2026

ORGANIZER: REAL TIME MUSIC

DATES: From October 26 to October 30, 2026.

DURATION: 5 days, 30 hours. From 10am to 5pm with a 1-hour lunch break.

LOCATION : UMJ 19 rue des Frigos 75014 PARIS

PREREQUISITES: None

TARGET AUDIENCE:

Musicians, dancers, actors, or anyone interested in real-time creation (educators, therapists, facilitators).

GOALS :

• Use accurately the 45 fundamental signs of Soundpainting (referenced in Walter Thompson’s workbook 1).
• Understanding and implementing language syntax: sentence structure, logic of sequencing, time management.
• Execute the signs clearly and legibly, respecting the fundamental body principles of Soundpainting (neutral position / active box, imaginary range).
• To actively interpret Soundpainting as a Performer and to direct it as a Soundpainter.
• Clearly explain the basics of Soundpainting to a group: definitions, how the language works, fundamental rules, description of contents and functions.
• Introduce a group to the practice of Soundpainting using basic symbols in an artistic or educational context.

SPEAKERS:

Claude Whipple, certified multidisciplinary Soundpainter and educator.

Walter Thompson, creator of Soundpainting.

François Jeanneau, musician and historical figure of Soundpainting in France.

EDUCATIONAL COORDINATION:

Xavier Bornens, Training Manager at Real Time Music.

PRICES AND FINANCING:

– Professional rate: €1240

If you are a performing arts professional, this training may be covered by your OPCO (AFDAS) as part of your continuing professional development rights.

Please note that the funding request must be submitted no later than 30 days before the start of the training, i.e., before September 26, 2026.

Contact Real Time Music contact@realtimemusic.fr for financing information.

– Solidarity rate: €460 (personal financing). Payment in three installments is possible (contact Real Time Music).

METHODS USED:

Interactive and immersive in-person training.

Systematic alternation between the roles of Soundpainter and Performer.

Proprioceptive training.

Regular personalized feedback and active learning based on practical experimentation.

ASSESSMENT AND CERTIFICATION METHODS:

Continuous assessment through performance observation and immediate feedback from instructors.

Real Time Music-Walter Thompson Certification:

• Practical assessment: a 10-minute composition and interpretation scenario (performer/soundpainter), allowing for the evaluation of mastery of signs, their bodily legibility, and the effectiveness of gestural communication.
• Questionnaire to assess the ability to explain the fundamental signs, to convey the rules of syntax, and to present the philosophical foundations of Soundpainting.
• Individual interviews with Walter Thompson and François Jeanneau
• At the end of the training, a Soundpainting Level 1 certification certificate will be given to participants who have obtained the certification.

ACCESSIBILITY:

This training is accessible to people with disabilities. For any specific requests, please contact our disability liaison, Xavier Bornens, at the following address: contact@realtimemusic.fr

CONTACTS:

For any questions, please contact us at:

• Phone: +33 6 09 56 66 69 (Xavier Bornens)
• E-mail : contact@realtimemusic.fr

APPLICATION PROCEDURES AND DEADLINES

Applications are open until October 25, 2026.

Places are limited and allocated after review of applications.

HOW TO APPLY:

To apply, please fill out the registration form by clicking the “REGISTRATION” button below.