Sequencing and Synthesis I
Curriculum guideline
Lecture: 4 hours/week
The instructor will devote four hours per week to lecture/demonstration. Students will work alongside the instructor in the Technology Lab. Students will be expected to complete regular assignments and projects outside of class time. These can be done in the lab or at home.
- MIDI protocol, including hexadecimal numbers, MIDI bytes and MIDI messages.
- Sequencers: paradigms and design, including analog, digital and hybrid designs.
- Sequencing: input, editing, representation.
- Introduction to synthesis theory and practice, including additive, subtractive, FM and wavetable models.
- Sampling techniques, including recording, editing and layering samples.
- Multitracking and mixing, using hardware and software sequencers.
- Alternative controllers, including breath, hand and motion-based designs.
- Hardware instruments: analog and digital sample players and synthesizers.
- Virtual instruments: computer based hybrids combining sampling and synthesis.
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to work unassisted with sequencing software, and will understand and be able to apply the following:
- MIDI protocol;
- Sequencers;
- Sequencing techniques;
- Introduction to synthesis theory and practice;
- Sampling;
- Multitracking and mixing;
- Alternative controllers;
- Hardware instruments;
- Virtual instruments.
Assessment will be based on course objectives and will be carried out in accordance with the Douglas College Evaluation Policy.
The following is an example evaluation scheme:
| Tests/Quizzes (3) | 25% |
| Midterm Projects (2) | 30% |
| Final Project | 35% |
| Professionalism | 10% |
| Total | 100% |
Professionalism is assessed on consistent attendance, punctuality, taking responsibility for deadlines, constructive and considerate inter-personal communication and contribution to class discussion and group work.
No texts or materials are required. All required hardware and software for the completion of assignments and projects is available in the lab. Students who wish to work outside the lab may want to purchase their own copies of the software used in class. A complete list of recommended software will be available at the first class session.