Music Production
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| MUSI3037 | Music | 3 | 20 | Spring UK |
- Code
- MUSI3037
- School
- Music
- Level
- 3
- Credits
- 20
- Semesters
- Spring UK
Summary
Having defined production in terms of the creation, performance, recording, mix and delivery of music, this module investigates current and historical production processes, explores communication of artistic expression via musical direction and arrangements (linear and vertical), explores the factors in creating and capturing performances; develops communication, interpersonal and time management skills and effective digital file management.
Topics may include:
• Production: definition and exploration. Study and discussion of musical examples will assess the impact of the role of a producer and application within various genres and fields of practice
• Arrangement (linear and vertical)
• Sonic, stylistic and artistic considerations
• Microphones: types, polar patterns, theory and practical application of techniques
• Recording media and considerations of their respective workflows
• Signal path (transferable skills)
• Multi-track recording technique
• Mixing: dynamics, EQ and FX; ITB and OTB, files and formats.
Reassessments for this module will be coursework, either essay or assignment.
Target Students
Only available to Year 3 Single and Joint Hons Music students including Liberal Arts. Module must be taken with MUSI3056 Studio Recording in the same academic Year. 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 workshop each week for 10 weeks
- One 2-hour lecture each week for 10 weeks
Please see module booklet for details. Breakdown of hours: classes 44 hours; individual study 156 hours. Drop-in slots will be scheduled for students to discuss coursework with the module convenor.
Assessment
- 40% Coursework 1: Group Production: Track Creation (3.00-5.30 min)
- 60% Coursework 2: Production Project (3.30-6.00 min)
- Coursework 3: Written Commentary (compulsory) 2250 - 2,500
Assessed by end of spring semester
Educational Aims
To enable students through discussion, listening and practical application to attain a broad understanding and practical application of the (historical and current) roles of a producer in order that they can manage their own time and that of others effectively develop communication skills in working with artists and performers facilitate and capture effective performances select and justify appropriate acoustic environments for performance and recording understand microphone theory and practical application adhere to standards pertaining to gain structure throughout recording and mixing processes use appropriate tools effectively to select takes and perform audio edits manage(organise/share/backup) digital files effectively create and present mixes and masters at standard reference levels and demonstrate ability to ultimately contextualise (their) production work within technical and stylistic reference points.Learning Outcomes
Knowledge & understanding of: (i) the relationship and interaction between theory and practice (e.g. microphone theory and application, propagation of sound waves and their interaction within range of acoustic environments (ii) roles and responsibilities of a producer (iii) stylistic considerations and technical standards.
Intellectual skills: students will learn to conceptualise and apply concepts pertaining to the communication of music through advanced production skills.
Professional/Practical skills: students will develop skills in (i) microphone placement (ii) signal path and gain structure (iii) configuring outboard tools and computer technology to achieve effective production artefacts (iv) listening and application of appropriate tools.
Transferable/Key Skills: Students will learn to: (i) work effectively with others (ii) manage their own and other's time effectively (iii) present work in a clear and accessible form (iv) communicate effectively with others (through group work, with performers and via learning journals).