During this module the student will explore

Working within Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) to edit and mix audio projects
Commercial and industry standard production, editing and mixing techniques
The historical developments of editing and mixing and how computer-based recording packages have been influenced by their historic context
The use of computer-based recording packages to alter musical recordings and improve the sonic potential of a mix.
The use of technology to apply production skills to amend and improve the quality of production mix to a multi-track recording
Digital Signal Processing in musical applications

A coursework portfolio consisting of a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 4 pieces of music and sound content which has been edited and mixed by the student.
The portfolio should include a minimum of 6 and a maximum of 8 minutes of musical content.
Where the content is sound for film or radio then it should be considered at a ratio of 1 minute of content being equivalent to 2 minutes of music only content. These amounts are negotiable with the module leader.
The portfolio work should be of a ‘large scale’ – that is, include a significant number of tracks within it in the range of 40-50 or more. (LO2 and 3)
In addition to the practical outputs, there should be a production journal detailing the theoretical underpinning of the decisions made in key areas, specific problems in the audio and how they have been solved and the overall strategy for dealing with the large-scale project outlined. (LOs 1, 2 and 4)
Students should reflect on the overall success of their work within the context of similarly positioned commercial work. (LO 4) (100%)

1 x 3-hour laboratory session per week.

1 x 2-hour technical instruction (in small groups) on recording and elements of software use per semester.

1. Demonstrate knowledge of the relevant theories, technical skills and competencies related to editing and mixing audio.
Learning, Knowledge and Understanding, Communication

2. Create, manage and evaluate the editing of large-scale audio projects.
Application, Problem Solving.

3. Apply computer technology to redesign sonic elements and sounds to improve the quality of production and mix.
Application, Problem Solving

4. Perform tests on audio and analyse and reflect on their results.
Analysis, reflection.

Cadman Music recording studios
Media stores / resource centre
Music laboratories

Avid Pro Tools software
Apple Logic software
Ableton Live software
Adobe Audition software
Hexedit software
Various additional third-party audio plug-ins by McDSP, Avid, Eventide, Michael Norris.

Microsoft Office software

Books, eBooks and audio recordings via the Library
LinkedIn Learning

Bennett, C.L. (2021) Digital Audio Theory: A Practical Guide. 1st edn. Focal Press.

Clark, R. (2010). Mixing, Recording, and Producing Techniques of the Pros Insights on Recording Audio for Music, Video, and Games. Boston: Course Technology CENGAGE Learning [distributor].

Frith, S. and Zagorski-Thomas, S. (2012) The Art of Record Production: An Introductory Reader for a New Academic Field. United Kingdom: Ashgate Publishing

Gibson, D. (2018). The art of mixing: a visual guide to recording, engineering, and production. 3nd ed. Focal Press.

Hepworth-Sawyer, R., Hodgson, J. and Marrington, M. (2019) Producing Music. 1st edn. Focal Press.

Hepworth-Sawyer, R. (2011). What is music production?: a producer's guide: the role, the people, the process. London: Focal.

Katz, B. (2013) Mastering Audio: The Art and the Science. 3rd edn. United Kingdom: Focal Press

Moylan, W. (2014) Understanding and Crafting the Mix: The Art of Recording. 3rd edn. Amsterdam: Elsevier/Focal Press

Moylan, W. (2020) Recording Analysis: How the Record Shapes the Song. 1st edn. Focal Press.

Pohlmann, K. C. (2011) Principles Of Digital Audio, Sixth Edition. 6th Edn. New York: MCGRAW HILL BOOK CO

Rumsey, F. (2021) Sound and Recording: Applications and Theory. 8th edn. Focal Press.

The module will cover the types of production and mixing techniques associated with commercial recordings produced with the music industry. As well as this, there will be an exploration of how production techniques have evolved and how computer based recording packages can be used to change musical content. Students will develop an in depth knowledge of production skills and their possible application to a pre-recorded multitrack recording, and to use technology to apply production skills to amend and improve the quality of a production mix to a multi-track recording.