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
Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Describe major developments in Music Technology
- Explain the organization and applications of MIDI.
- Make connections between changes in technology and changes in music composition/production
Transferable and Generic Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Work independently and demonstrate critical self-awareness
- Use computing and IT resources as relevant to the domain
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.
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.
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 |
---|---|
Lecture | 14 |
Revision | 20 |
Completion of assessment task | 60 |
Preparation for scheduled sessions | 6 |
Wider reading or practice | 40 |
Supervised time in studio/workshop | 2 |
Practical classes and workshops | 8 |
Total study time | 150 |
Resources & Reading list
General Resources
Sound on Sound. Music technolgy magazine
Textbooks
Music, sound, and technology. Music, sound, and technology.
Thom, Holmes. Electronic and experimental music: pioneers in technology and composition.
Sound synthesis and sampling.
Francis Rumsey. Sound and recording : an introduction.
Pinch & Trocco. Analog days: the invention and impact of the Moog synthesizer. Harvard University Press..
Kevin Anker. Logic Pro X Power! – electronic book.
Andrea Pejrolo. Creative Sequencing Techniques for Music Production.. Focal Press.
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 QuizzesSummative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
Method | Percentage contribution |
---|---|
Practical assignment and write-up | 60% |
Timed Assignment | 40% |
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