Module overview
This module discusses the fundamentals of Music technology– analogue and digital audio, MIDI, system components (sequencers, digital audio workstations, synthesisers, samplers, processors, etc); important examples of specific electronic music and audio technology and their impact; practical MIDI sequencing.
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Transferable and Generic Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Use computing and IT resources as relevant to the domain
- Work independently and demonstrate critical self-awareness
Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Describe major developments in Music Technology
- Make connections between changes in technology and changes in music composition/production
- Explain the organization and applications of MIDI.
Knowledge and Understanding
Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
- History and development of electronic Music Technology
- The purpose and functions of a range of electronic audio and music devices
- The practical applications of professional composition software using basic functions.
Subject Specific Practical Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Deploy a range of editing techniques to manipulate musical data on computer
- Use a range of techniques to enter musical data into software
- Produce a basic mix of musical material combining a number of sources.
Syllabus
The module introduces music technology fundamentals – analogue and digital audio, MIDI, system components (sequencers, digital audio workstations, synthesisers, samplers, processors, etc); important examples of specific electronic music and audio technology and their impact; practical MIDI sequencing.
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
Teaching methods include:
- Lectures
- Demonstrations
- Group tutorials.
Learning activities include:
- Independent study/research
- Practical work using Music software
Type | Hours |
---|---|
Wider reading or practice | 40 |
Preparation for scheduled sessions | 6 |
Revision | 20 |
Supervised time in studio/workshop | 2 |
Completion of assessment task | 60 |
Practical classes and workshops | 8 |
Lecture | 14 |
Total study time | 150 |
Resources & Reading list
General Resources
Sound on Sound. Music technolgy magazine
Textbooks
Sound synthesis and sampling.
Kevin Anker. Logic Pro X Power! – electronic book.
Pinch & Trocco. Analog days: the invention and impact of the Moog synthesizer. Harvard University Press..
Music, sound, and technology. Music, sound, and technology.
Andrea Pejrolo. Creative Sequencing Techniques for Music Production.. Focal Press.
Francis Rumsey. Sound and recording : an introduction.
Thom, Holmes. Electronic and experimental music: pioneers in technology and composition.
Assessment
Assessment strategy
- Formative assessments designed to provide informal, on-module feedback.
- In-class assessments to test technical and contextual knowledge.
- Practical sequencing assignment.
Formative
This is how we’ll give you feedback as you are learning. It is not a formal test or exam.
Exercises and Quizzes
- Assessment Type: Formative
- Feedback: In-class feedback
- Final Assessment: No
- Group Work: No
Summative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
Method | Percentage contribution |
---|---|
Timed Assignment | 40% |
Practical assignment and write-up | 60% |
Referral
This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.
Method | Percentage contribution |
---|---|
Assessment | 100% |
Repeat Information
Repeat type: Internal & External