MUSC 160 Computer Applications to Music I

School of Arts and Technology

MUSC 160 Computer Applications to Music I. This course covers the fundamentals and practical applications of a digital audio system, as well as methods for functioning in an integrated MIDI/digital audio workstation (DAW) studio environment. An emphasis is put on musical projects designed to emulate professional practice and application. MIDI sequencing is done at computer-based workstations in the classroom. Fundamentals of digital audio recording are practiced and auxiliary buss send and return are introduced. Prior experience with Pro Tools or another DAW is not required.

Accessibility Services Notice

Students who would like an academic accommodation and who have a documented disability should contact Accessibility Services, if they have not already done so.

Transfer Agreements

Course to Course transfer – YesBlock Transfer – Yesbctransferguide.ca
Course Details
Total number of weeks15
Total Credits
Total Hours30
Typical hours per week breakdown
Lecture2

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, the learner will be able to:

  1. Develop an understanding of the digital audio workstation
  2. Develop the ability to edit the pitch and rhythmic placement of audio files
  3. Develop the ability midi information used with synthesizers
  4. Develop an understanding of track automation
  5. Learn to record digital audio and virtual instruments using midi
  6. Develop fundamental working practices of developing recording projects
  7. Develop the language and concepts of the recording environment
  8. Develop personal musical growth as a composer and as a recording technician
  9. Develop an understanding of the basic functions of effects application to recorded tracks
  10. Learn the fundamentals of recording theory
  11. Develop the ability to record music for personal and professional use
  12. Develop transferable knowledge that is applicable to all digital audio workstations

Teaching and Learning Approach

Weekly Lectures include visual and aural demonstrations of modern recording DAW systems using AVID ProTools, and students will actively participate in this class using the advanced tools they have access to in the Selkirk Midi lab. Weekly assignments give students the opportunity to explore concepts discussed in class, and are generally flexible enough to allow individual creativity in solving the required tasks. Assignments and assessments will be delivered in class in the form of tests & projects. Discussion is welcome and students are encouraged to form opinions on what they hear & see. It is hoped that students will be exposed to production techniques, music, and skills that they have not previously been aware of, and use this to aid them in their careers.

Learning Resources

Required:

No required textbook: Students are required to take detailed notes, keep all handouts, and reference moodle resources.

 

Recommended:

USB storage drive, headphones, 1/8" - 1/4" headphone adapter, microphone

Detailed Course Content, Topics, and Sequence Covered

1. Introduction to server and account activation

2. Overview of Mac OS. Basic Key Commands How files are stored. PDF docs and how to edit and work on forms. Using Onedrive, Saving, uploading. Software/Hardware we will be using.

3. Fundamentals of recording audio and session basics Overview of Protools

4. MIDI - History, Tracks, Editing

5. Audio Levels, Digital Signals, Signal Path, Mics, Connectors

6. Audio Editing, Gain, Midterm Project Requirements

7. Playlists, Groups, Clip Gain, fades

8. Bounce to disk, Markers, Master Fader, Mid term project final revisions

9. busses, routing & aux sends

10. Review Midterm : File Management, Gain Staging, delete unused audio, import audio

11. Automation - volume, panning & more

12. Basic Recording Theory, Intro to FX (Reverb, Delay), Final Project Requirements

13. Review of Key Concepts for Final Exam. Mixing techniques

14. Final Project Work - In class help.

15. Final project due

Assessment

TitleLearning OutcomesValue
Exams1-1225%
Projects1-1235%
Homework & Quizzes Participation - Attendance, Group Recording1-1230%
Projects, etc1-1210%
Total100%

Grading Table

Standard Contemporary Music and Technology Program Grading Table

PercentageLetter GradeGPA
97 - 100A+4.33
94 - 96.9A4.00
90 - 93.9A-3.67
87 - 89.9B+3.33
83 - 86.9B3.00
80 - 82.9B-2.67
77 - 79.9C+2.33
73 - 76.9C2.00
70 - 72.9C-1.67
60 - 69.9P1.00
Less than 60%F0.00
Did not withdrawDNW0.00

See the Academic Calendar for General Information including how to withdraw from course(s) and other regulations.

Disclaimer

Information contained in this course outline is correct at the time of publication. Content of the course is revised on an ongoing basis to ensure relevance to changing educational, employment and market needs. The instructor will endeavor to provide notice of changes to students as soon as possible. The instructor reserves the right to add or delete material from courses.