Advanced Sound Applications

Curriculum guideline

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Course
MUSC 3281
Discontinued
Yes
Course code
MUSC 3281
Descriptive
Advanced Sound Applications
Department
Music
Faculty
Language, Literature & Performing Arts
Credits
3.00
Start date
End term
202010
PLAR
No
Semester length
15 weeks
Max class size
26
Contact hours
4 hours per week
Method(s) of instruction
Lecture
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.

Course description
Through lecture/demonstrations and lab work, students will 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. Students will produce a final project combining audio and MIDI techniques.
Course content
  1. Advanced audio editing, including time stretching, transpositions, loop points etc.
  2. Advanced software instruments, including synthesizer, percussion and string modeling instruments.
  3. Virtual orchestras: aesthetics and possibilities.
  4. Distributed processing, including multicore and multiprocessor systems.
  5. Sequencing in live performance, using standard DAW software and specialized “Live” programs.
  6. Ensemble performances (ie., forming a “MIDI Band” for live performance)
  7. Students may explore individual topics in this class, in consultation with the instructor.
Learning outcomes

Through lecture/demonstrations and lab work, students will 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. 

On successful completion of the course students will be able to work unassisted, with recording and sequencing software, and will understand and be able to apply the following:

  1. Advanced audio editing
  2. Advanced software instruments
  3. Virtual orchestras
  4. Distributed processing
  5. Sequencing in live performance
  6. Ensemble performances
  7. Individual topics.
Means of assessment
Tests/Quizzes (minimum of 2) 30%
Midterm Project 30%
Final Project* 40%
  100%

* The Final Project constitutes one component of the graduation portfolio requirement.

Textbook materials

No texts or materials are required. All required hardware and software for the completion of assignments and projects is available in the lab (3220) or the studio (3280). 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.

Prerequisites

MUSC 3181 or permission of instructor