Sound Design and Synthesis (Level 2)
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| MUSI2026 | Music | 2 | 20 | Spring UK |
- Code
- MUSI2026
- School
- Music
- Level
- 2
- Credits
- 20
- Semesters
- Spring UK
Summary
Using a variety of technologies this module explores sound theory and sonic husbandry in order to cultivate an organic approach to sound creation. Deepening on topics first introduced in Digital Composition, students probe ever more diverse and adventurous synthesis, sampling, sound to picture and mix techniques as they work towards completing a digital portfolio of music constructed from sounds composed, curated and created entirely from scratch.
Target Students
Only available to Year 2 Single and Joint Hons Music students including Liberal Arts. There are limited places on this module.
Co-requisites
Modules you must take in the same academic year, or have taken in a previous year, to enrol in this module:
Classes
- One 1-hour-30-minute workshop each week for 10 weeks
Assessment
- 100% Coursework 1: Portfolio
Assessed by end of spring semester
Educational Aims
To provide further depths of knowledge and advanced skills in sonic manipulation. To demonstrate ability to adapt and apply compositional techniques in the digital realm. To attain a deep understanding of appropriate synthesis techniques. To program and manipulate digital samples creatively. To compose music relevant to industry related project briefs. To record and edit audio and MIDI creatively. To work with music/sound design alongside digital video formats. To apply core and creative mix techniques in the completion of projects. To adhere to industry standard audio file and project file formats.Learning Outcomes
Knowledge and understanding – outcomes which describe broadly the subject matter of the programme/module:
• A good grounding in computer-based music composition and industry-standard software
• Understanding of demands and expectations of commercial project briefs
Intellectual skills - students will learn to conceptualise and apply concepts pertaining to creative editing of music through advanced production skills:
• Comprehension of the function, potential and interrelation of industry-standard music production software and hardware
• Development of aesthetic understanding appropriate to different industry briefs
Professional/practical skills – students will develop skills in recording audio, sonic manipulation (editing, programming), mixing audio dynamically and creatively, listening and interpretative skills
• Mastery of industry-standard music production software and hardware
• Production of musical and multimedia works suitable to commercial needs
Transferable (key) skills – interpretation of briefs, time management skills, working effectively with others, communication of musical and technical learning through peer to peer activity
• Confidence with advanced computer technology
• Capacity to produce creative product to a precise brief and deadline