MUSC 270 Recording Techniques I provides students with an introduction to recording principles and practices. Through theoretical and practical instruction students will acquire a basic understanding of studio technologies and recording skills. Topics include fundamentals of analogue and digital recording, design and function of microphones, loudspeakers, and acoustical considerations in sound recording. Student engineers work with student artists to complete live-to-two track and multi-track recordings.
Prerequisites: MUSC 161 with a minimum grade of 83%
Corequisite: MUSC 260
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.Course Details| Total number of weeks | 15 |
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| Total Credits | |
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| Total Hours | 52.5 |
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Typical hours per week breakdown| Lecture | 2 |
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| Lab (lab, field, computer) | 1.5 |
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Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, the learner will be able to:
- Record a performance in stereo, using only 2 microphones
- Create a working Session Outline to guide recording sessions
- Effectively run a multi-track recording session
- Identify the signal flow of the Selkirk recording studio
- Use contemporary recording devices such as dynamic processors, digital effects, microphones and recorders at a basic level
Teaching and Learning Approach
Lectures and demonstration. Students are required to complete projects using the equipment available in the
school recording studio.Learning Resources
Required:
Understanding Audio, by Daniel M. Thompson
A notebook to take notes and keep handouts organized.
One or more portable hard drive(s).
Recommended:Detailed Course Content, Topics, and Sequence Covered
1. Ensemble Auditions & Orientation
2. Tech & Studio Orientation, Cables, Stands, Projects, Course Plan, Audio Signal types, History, Questions, etc
3. Everything Microphones. The similarities & differences between condenser, dynamic, ribbon microphones, polar patterns, and microphone care & storage.
4. Microphone Review & Continued. Signal path & wiring, Patch Bay & Normals, Digital Routing, Gain, Studio Rack gear, etc
5. Digital Connections. Review of studio signal flow & routing Headphones & Cue Systems intro
6. Stereo Mic Techniques
7. Stereo Mic techniques Continued
8. Microphone Test
9. Headphones & Cue systems
10. Listen to Stereo projects. Discuss results and consider alternatives.
11. Basic Recording Techniques - GTR, Bass, Vocals etc.
12. DI's & Re-amping Prepare for Proficiencies.
13. Final proficiencies & exam
14. Tech Support for end of year concertsAssessment
| Title | Learning Outcomes | Value |
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| Homework & Quizzes | 1-5 | 30% |
| Projects | 1-5 | 30% |
| Exams & Proficiencies Participation - Attendance, Group Recording | 1-5 Projects | 30% |
| Session maintenance | 1-5 | 10% |
| Total | 100% |
Grading Table
Standard Contemporary Music and Technology Program Grading Table
| Percentage | Letter Grade | GPA |
| 97 - 100 | A+ | 4.33 |
| 94 - 96.9 | A | 4.00 |
| 90 - 93.9 | A- | 3.67 |
| 87 - 89.9 | B+ | 3.33 |
| 83 - 86.9 | B | 3.00 |
| 80 - 82.9 | B- | 2.67 |
| 77 - 79.9 | C+ | 2.33 |
| 73 - 76.9 | C | 2.00 |
| 70 - 72.9 | C- | 1.67 |
| 60 - 69.9 | P | 1.00 |
| Less than 60% | F | 0.00 |
| Did not withdraw | DNW | 0.00 |
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.