Course

Sequencing and Synthesis II

Faculty
Language, Literature & Performing Arts
Department
Music
Course code
MUSC 2171
Credits
3.00
Semester length
15
Max class size
26
Method(s) of instruction
Lecture
Course designation
None
Industry designation
None
Typically offered
To be determined

Overview

Course description
Through lecture/demonstrations and lab work, students will continue to explore advanced techniques in synthesis and audio. Emphasis will be placed on ways in which audio and synthesis are combined in modern music production, along with more experimental uses of this technology. This course will further the exploration of advanced sequencing and production techniques introduced in Music 1271, including the use of Logic Pro plug-ins.
Course content

Lab work will utilize advanced sequencing and synthesis including the following:

In-depth synthesizer programming including:

  • Sound Design using the synthesizers Sculpture, Ultrabeat, ES2, and ES1.
  • Programming utilizing EXS24, EVOC 20 PolySynth and Sculpture.
  • Side-chain production utilizing internal plug-ins.
  • Sequencing using hybrid synthesizers.
  • Sequencing with alternative MIDI controllers.
  • MIDI production using leading-edge features including Advanced Transformers.
  • Operations, Input Quantize and Compression, Multi-Input Recording, and Advanced Editing.

In-depth MIDI productions work will include the following:

  • Advanced MIDI effects such as Arpeggiators, Chord Triggers, Scripting, Randomizing, and Control Change Modifiers.
  • Advanced audio effects on MIDI and audio tracks.
  • Production techniques designed specifically for different styles.
  • Production techniques designed to maximize mix diversities.
  • Advanced Digital Sampling techniques including velocity-cross fading.
  • Multiple-zone programming, filter programming, and audio file processing.

In-depth compositional production techniques including:

  • Alternate stylistic production for synthesis and synthesizers.
  • Creation of hybrid productions utilizing third-party plug-ins.
  • Recognition of varied stylistic methods of production utilizing Logic Pro X Plug-Ins.
  • Multiple compositions and productions using contemporary techniques.
Learning activities

Lecture/demonstration. Students will work alongside the instructor, either in the large studio or Technology Lab. Students will be expected to complete regular assignments and projects outside of class time. These can be done in the lab, the studio, or at home.

Means of assessment

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 and/or assignments (minimum of three)  25%
Midterm Project(s)  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. 

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to work unasissted in a major DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) and apply the following:

  • In-depth synthesizer programming;
  • In-depth MIDI production;
  • In-depth compositional production techniques.
Textbook materials

No texts or materials are required. All required hardware and software for the completion of assignments and projects is available in the studio.

Requisites

Prerequisites

MUSC 1271 

Corequisites

No corequisite courses.

Equivalencies

No equivalent courses.

Course Guidelines

Course Guidelines for previous years are viewable by selecting the version desired. If you took this course and do not see a listing for the starting semester / year of the course, consider the previous version as the applicable version.

(Current)

Course Transfers

These are for current course guidelines only. For a full list of archived courses please see https://www.bctransferguide.ca

Institution Transfer details for MUSC 2171
There are no applicable transfer credits for this course.

Course Offerings

Winter 2025