Music Technology Studios using typically Logic 8 Pro/ProTools/Cubase 4

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

Assessment 1
The production of a range of synth and sampler patches that explore the diversity of synthesis and sampling techniques [LOs 1 & 2] supported by a written rationale for the production of the coursework, critically evaluating the decisions made regarding techniques and underlying principles and concepts involved (1,000 words) [LOs 1, 2 and 3]

Assessment 2
The production of portfolio of work, comprising a soundtrack, including the use of sound effects for a specified product, requiring the selection of different techniques and their application in a professional context [LOs 4] supported by a written explanation of the production of the recorded work, critically evaluating the decisions made regarding techniques used and their success in a professional context (1,000 words) [LOs 5]

Formative assessment:
Participation in group discussions regarding the use of a range of techniques and software in the production of sound design for moving images

Technical skills instruction and workshops
Equipment demonstrations
Group tutorials with formative feedback
Individual tutorials and portfolio evaluation

In this module, you will develop a deeper understanding and application of a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) within a visual media framework. You will use this knowledge to design high quality audio soundscapes for different professional products and requirements. This will lead to a personal evaluation of the resources you have used, and the success of the sound design you have created.

You will be introduced to the process of synchronising audio within the film and computer game environment and given tuition in the use of a relevant DAW. You will consider the choice of Sound Effects and Foley and how these elements are integrated to achieve a soundscape for use visual media. You will become familiar with the application of a DAW through a series of practical sessions.

You will explore the evolution of electronic music synthesisers, their technology and application as well as sampling techniques and their practical application. The use of various synthesis techniques will be considered, leading to hands-on experience of synthesiser sound and patch development and sound creation using current technologies such as Reaktor or other similar programs.

You will be expected to produce professional outcomes, such as a musical score and sound effects for different media products, which might be silent films, advertisements and/or computer games etc. Your work will include the use of a full range of sound effects, foley and appropriate ADR. The ability to synthesise and create and utilise patches will also be part of your work. You will discuss the reasons for your choices, considerations for compositional make-up and the challenges faced when working to a specific brief.

Your full understanding of the processes and the choices faced in the professional environment will be discussed by you in a critical evaluation that you will prepare for assessment.

Farnell, A. (2010) Designing Sound Cambridge, MA. The MIT Press
Kalinak, K. (2010) Film Music: A Very Short Introduction. NY, NY. OUP
Nisbett, A. (2003) The Sound Studio - Audio Techniques for Radio Television Film and Recording (7th
Revised edition), UK: Elsevier Science and Technology
Russ, M. (2008) Sound Synthesis and Sampling. Abingdon. Focal Press
Viers, R. (2011) The Sound Effects Bible. Studio City, CA. Michael Wiese Productions
Yewdall D.L. (2012) Practical Art of Motion Picture Sound (3rd edition), US: Focal Press

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