Formed in 2024, GLOSS is the UK's first non-profit, artist-led, community-based electronic music library. It began as a platform for hosting our ITEM (Introduction to Electronic Music) workshops and has steadily evolved towards establishing a dedicated space. Through this residence and membership model (launching 2025), we aim to provide our community with access to electronic music workshops, instruments, performances, lectures, historical insights, and other valuable resources.
Glasgow Library of Synthesized Sound CIC is a registered non-profit Community Interest Company(SC754357)
What We've Been Up To
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ITEM (Introduction To Electronic Music) Workshops : GLOSS offered three workshops a week, every week from January to mid-May, free of charge to participants. These sessions included hands-on access to synthesizers and modular equipment as well as time to record in a professional setting at La Chunky Studio. This initiative provided invaluable opportunities for participants to explore electronic music in a supportive and professional environment.
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Support for ITEM: Backed by Creative Scotland and the National Lottery, as well as Ableton, Rubadub, Instruō, and Expert Sleepers.
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Live Events: We hosted several sold-out gigs in La Chunky Studios featuring international and upcoming local artists, showcasing diverse talent and fostering connections within the music community.
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Community Engagement: Through the ITEM project and our events, we’ve empowered participants to explore electronic music production and sound design, fostering creativity and skill development.
Cellophane wrapped printed posters advertising the ITEM workshops. Says 'Make Your Own Acid' in large text.
Woman with blonde hair and green and white jumper playing a modular synthesizer in a room full of instruments
More people exploring electronic instruments in the studio. gloss logo in background
Cellophane wrapped printed posters advertising the ITEM workshops. Says 'Make Your Own Acid' in large text.
Looking Ahead
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Membership Programme (2025): Launching a new initiative to provide regular access to our library’s unique resources.
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Expanded ITEM Workshops: Building on previous successes, we will offer a new series of workshops building on the success of previous editions.
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Events and Performances: Continuing to host irregular gigs and talks featuring international artists, while platforming local and emerging talent.
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Instrument for the People of Glasgow (IFTPOG): In 2025, GLOSS will become the permanent home of this one-of-a-kind modular synthesizer, created by artist Scott Myles and constructed with donations from modular companies worldwide. Currently exhibited at Glasgow’s GoMA as part of Myles’ Head in a Bell exhibition, this instrument is a testament to the synergy of art, sound and a belief that music is for all. We will be programming projects and events with the IFTPOG throughout the year and into the future.
Our Foundations and Future
GLOSS was formed and is directed by artists and musicians Lewis and Suzi Cook, who also create music together as Free Love. Their vision for GLOSS is rooted in celebrating electronic music as a vital part of cultural identity, history, and language. Inspired by Glasgow’s profound contributions to electronic music through its artists, labels, venues, and communities, GLOSS exists to honour and expand this legacy.
Central to our work is collaboration. We partner with an ever-growing team of musicians, creators, artists, and organisations to deliver our projects. Our ITEM project has received generous support from Creative Scotland and The National Lottery, as well as key industry leaders including Ableton, Rubadub, Instruō, Signal Sounds, Expert Sleepers, Elektron, La Chunky Studios, Bastl Instruments, and Torso Electronics.
Together, we aim to provide accessible opportunities for individuals to explore, create, and innovate within the world of electronic music.
By fostering access, education, and collaboration, GLOSS ensures that the rich heritage of electronic music remains alive and continues to inspire future generations. As we look ahead, we remain dedicated to building a supportive community where sound exploration and creativity can thrive.
