Suitable recording software and editing package (e.g. Cubase SX/VST)

Students will have access to studio space and college library and computer resources. University learning resources are available on campus at Stafford and Stoke-on-Trent, and online via the partner Need to Know pages of the university website.
http://www.staffs.ac.uk/courses_and_study/partnerships/current_students/email/index.jsp

Clackett D. (1996) Handbook of MIDI sequencing. Kent. PC Publishing
Hosken D. (2014) An Introduction to Music Technology. London. Routledge
Hewitt, M. (2009) Composition for Computer Musicians. Boston, MA. Cengage
Rumsey F. & McCormick T. (2012) Sound and Recording, An Introduction. Oxford: Focal Press
Savage, S. (2011) The Art of Digital Audio Recording. Oxford. Oxford University Press
White P. (1999) Basic MIDI. London. Sanctuary Publishing

Whilst we are recommending the core reading list detailed here as essential to develop your knowledge and understanding of the subject, there may be an additional core list in your Module Handbook which will be specific and localised to the equipment and software that is for use in your college

Staffordshire University Online Resources
Academic Skills Guides: http://www.staffs.ac.uk/support_depts/infoservices/learning_support/academic_skills/
Harvard Referencing Guide: http://www.staffs.ac.uk/support_depts/infoservices/learning_support/refzone/harvard/index.jsp

Technical skills instruction and workshops
Group tutorials and critiques with formative feedback
Individual tutorials

Assessment 1
The creation and presentation of two pieces of music using digital audio software and the studio environment, reflecting the range and potential of the technology utilised [LOs 1, 2, 3, 4]

Assessment 2
A report discussing and evaluating the processes involved in using audio and MIDI processing, and their application in assessment 1 (2,000 words) [LOs 1, 5]

Formative assessment:
The presentation of preliminary work in a planned interview situation, demonstrating appropriate progress and time management in the creation of recorded work

In this module you will learn how to create, capture and process digital audio using industry standard software. Your work will include the exploration of the application of audio effects, dynamic processing and equalisation to digital audio. You will be shown how to route audio in both digital and analogue domains through the use of conventional mixing desks, and digital software based environments.

You will be introduced to MIDI and its applications in a music product. MIDI sequencing and connections will also be explored.

As you progress through the module you will experience the professional application of these processes, and apply the fundamental principles of audio recording within a studio environment, utilising suitable microphones and digital audio recording facilities.

Working independently and with peers where appropriate, you will be expected to record and present music to professional standards using industry standard software. You will discuss your work and the methods utilised with your peers and tutor(s). Relevant supporting material will be a part of your work, including a report evaluating the working processes and your achievements.

To support your development you will be asked at a suitable stage to prepare your work for a formative feedback session that will take the form of an interview with your tutor.