SMH introduces students to the concepts of recording, sequencing and mixing music using computer-based Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs). Topics covered include digital audio and MIDI theory, DAW signal flow and system requirements, MIDI sequencing, stereo mixing techniques, and use of software-based virtual instruments and effects processors such as equalizers, compressors and reverbs. Students receive hands-on practice in digital music production in a state-of-the-art production lab.
Learning outcomes
Learners will be able to:
- Apply the principles of audio and MIDI theory and tools including microphones, mixers, sequencers and controllers to record, edit, and mix broadcast quality music on Digital Audio Workstations
- Employ an understanding of rhythmic theory and tools such as click tracks, tempo tracks, and quantizing to ensure desired conformity to tempo in recorded performances
- Application of sound effects and musical composition to short films
- Put together a high functioning Digital Audio Workstation integrating a computer, audio interface, and non-linear audio recording /editing/mixing software.
- Develop listening skills to draw from the rich tradition of music production techniques to apply creative applications of sonic tools to modern productions
- Apply an understanding of effects processors such as equalizers, compressors, and reverb to achieve spectral and dynamic balance and depth in mixes
Course content
SMH Music Production Technology courses introduces students to the concepts of recording, sequencing and mixing music using computer-based Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs). Topics covered include digital audio and MIDI theory, DAW signal flow and system requirements, MIDI sequencing, stereo mixing techniques, and use of software-based virtual instruments and effects processors such as equalizers, compressors and reverbs.
Specific course content includes:
- a brief history of music production
- audio concepts including frequency, amplitude, phase, compression, rarefaction, signal: noise ratio, transduction, analog/digital conversion, sample rate, bit depth as applied to production
- MIDI concepts including MIDI protocol, MIDI messages and basic synthesis hardware requirements for DAW-based music production (computers, audio/MIDI equipment, storage, etc.)
- microphone theory (transducer types, polar patterns, phantom power, pre-amps)
- file management
- audio and MIDI editing concepts
- rendered and real-time signal processors with particular emphasis on EQ, compressors and reverbs
- critical listening skills
Film analysis and how to apply real time audio to different scenes within a film
Course Outline
- The history of music production (monophonic recordings to lacquer, multichannel consoles, multitrack analog and digital tape, synthesizers, MIDI technology, porta studios)
- Intro to music production software
- Recording and editing audio
- Signal flow
- Signal: noise ratio
- Direct inject recording
- Recording with microphones/basic mic theory
- File management: working with audio files and regions and session maintenance
- Audio Waveform components (frequency, amplitude, phase, compression, rarefaction)
- Digital audio theory: transduction, A/D conversion, sample rate, bit depth
- Editing exercises for audio and film
- Overview of audio processing
- Audiosuite and RTAS effects
- MIDI theory
- Intro to MIDI sequencing (instrument tracks, virtual instruments, grid-based recording, note and score editing, quantizing)
- Introduction to the drum set
- Creating MIDI drum/percussion tracks
- Considerations for mixing: Balance, Spectral Content, Dynamic
- Content, Aural Field, Dimension (FX), Interest (Arrangement,
- Persuasion) pectral management: Using Equalizers
- Dynamic range and compressors
- Creating depth in mixes with artificial reverb
- System requirements for Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs)
- Overview of interfaces for DAWs
- Introduction to the recording studio
- Studio recording session
