BMA0R230B – Music Production 1

Module code

BMA0R230B

Module title

Music Production 1

Prescription

This module examines the theoretical and practical knowledge required for recording sound. Topics covered include acoustics, microphone techniques, mixing consoles, signal processing and multitrack recording devices. The student will build on their knowledge of eight track recorders, exploring the potential of more technically advanced digital and analogue formats. The student will apply this knowledge to the recording and mixing of various music production styles and genres.

Programmes

BM9601

NZQA Level

Level 6

NZQA Credits

Delivery method

Web-Based

Learning hours

Total learning hours: 150

Resources required

Content: 3CONTENT AND PROCESS
3.1 Music and Acoustics
Frequency
Amplitude
Timbre
Dynamics

3.2 Studio and control room acoustics
Acoustic spaces
Monitoring
Studio design

3.3 Theory of shaping audio
Equalisation
Dynamic processors
Spatial Effects

3.4 Acoustic Properties of Microphones
Microphone characteristics
Application of microphones

3.5Recording Devices and procedures
Recording devices in analogue and digital formats
Format considerations
Gain Structure

3.6Recording Software and procedures
DAW editing and processing techniques

3.7Recording Signal Flow
Mixing consoles
Signal flow
Stereo field
Signal grouping
Documentation of sessions

3.8Live Sound applications
Setting up a three-way public address system
Signal-flow in a live concert environment
Cable implementation and operation

3.9Contextual Research
Contextual research into contemporary domain values and constructs
Case studies and selected readings
Research strategies and reports
Learning Outcomes: 2.LEARNING OUTCOMES and PERFORMANCE CRITERIA
2.1 Understand relevant aspects of the discourses and practices in contemporary music production
-produce written and oral analyses of selected texts, identifying relevant issues
-review and write descriptions and analyses of selected texts
-reflect critically upon relationships between representative texts, examples of work and self practice
-produce oral and written interpretations of and comparisons between selected works
-develop and test rationales for self practice
-conduct conventional presentations of outcomes

2.2Develop an understanding of the acoustic properties of sound
-examine the acoustic properties of sound
-apply acoustic theory to the solving of acoustic problems in the recording studio and live venue

2.3 Understand the fundamental properties of sound as music
-identify and discuss the component properties of sound in relation to the hearing mechanism
-examine the acoustic characteristics of a range of audio technology used in music reproduction
-acquire a basic comprehension of the acoustic characteristics of standard instruments and the voice
-develop a perspective of music using acoustic theory as analytical criteria

2.4 Combine a technical knowledge of music production with the principles of acoustics in the recording of music
-apply knowledge of the audio characteristics of microphones to the recording of a variety of instruments and vocal types
-apply knowledge of the principles of equalisation in the recording of vocal and instrumental music
-develop a practical working palette of sound-shaping techniques

2.5 Develop knowkedge in the practical mixing of music
-make appropriate musical choices in obtaining an 'ideal mix' based on technical knowledge and understanding of production aesthetics
-reflect upon the relationship between initial recording techniques and the final mixdown process
-develop skills in the planning and design of sessions

2.6 Comprehend the process of graded assessment
-employ a vocabulary for describing work
-consider and reflect on research processes and decisions
-participate in on-going formative assessment
-consider, discuss and document self and peer performances for graded assessment
Learning and Teaching Resource: 4 LEARNING PROCESS
- Students examine issues of form and technique through exercises and project briefs prescribed by lecturer.
- Students research content for their own assignments.
- Students adopt structure prescribed by lecturer for working through projects.
- Students adopt procedures prescribed by lecturer, students identify specific questions within those topics.
- Students participate in informal presentations of their work.
- Students participate in formative assessment according to criteria set by lecturer.
- Students receive feedback on their performance through graded assessment performed by lecturer.