BMAMP315 – Post Production and Mastering

Module code

BMAMP315

Module title

Post Production and Mastering

Prescription

This course requires students to synthesise their analytical, technical and conceptual knowledge of music whilst exploring the process of audio post production and mastering. Students will develop objective criteria to analyse the effectiveness of each track recorded. Students will learn signal processing techniques for enhancing individual recordings and how to develop continuity within a recording project. Students will then learn how to format completed material for reproduction and distribut

Programmes

BM9601

NZQA Level

Level 7

NZQA Credits

Delivery method

Web-Based

Learning hours

Total learning hours: 150

Resources required

Learning Outcomes: 1.1 Understand the values, methodologies and strategies, which inform current professional practice in post production and mastering industries.
- compare analyse, and evaluate selected texts identifying issues relevant to a specific contemporary practice
- analyse a selection of current works and identify the specific methods used in their production .
- compare significant changes in methods of practice and strategies for production relevant to a specific contemporary practice.
- develop and implement a strategy for the production of work which explicitly applies the analysis of values from a domain
- evaluate self practice using normative criteria derived from a current domain
- plan and implement a conventional presentation of own works
- develop critical synergies between representative texts, examples of work and self practice

1.2 Understand the relationship between music aesthetic and production practice
- analyse the contextual and cultural frame work of selected recorded music
- identify and discuss music aesthetics in selected recordings
- isolate and discuss specific music genres in relation to production aesthetics to develop an orientation for practice
- explore and refine production concepts in the recorded music medium

1.3 Understand specific music genres in relation to production technique and practice
- research contemporary developments in production technique and practice
- examine and discuss the deconstruction of musical elements within a production style
- develop explore and refine a technique that extends the boundaries of a conventional production style
- examine the relationship between the context and the extended listening audience of the finished music product
- integrate and synthesise the particular musical elements, technical practice and conceptual basis chosen to produce the music
- experiment with production processes as a signifier of cultural meaning

1.4 Comprehend the particular technical considerations for mastering and post production
- demonstrate a technical understanding of professional mastering devices
- control and manipulate compiled track sequences in keeping with industry conventions
- acquire technical proficiency in the use of computers for post production and editing processes
- research and discuss new developments in audio formatting, media and dispersal systems

1.5 Understand the value of self evaluation within the context of professional practice
- demonstrate the ability to extend a design brief with individual, negotiated criteria
- consider and reflect upon the relationship between adopted process and final product
- continuously self evaluate performances independent of institutional assessment
- participate in self/peer critiques for on going formative assessment
- critically consider, discuss and document self and peer performances for regular graded assessment
- actively participate in and facilitate group and class critiques
Content: 1.1 Recording concept development
Production aesthetics
Research and analyse examples
Track sequence considerations

1.2 Industry Requirements
Working within industry parameters
Time management
Test tones I.D code requirements
C.D manufacturing

1.3 Mastering Techniques
Pre-Mastering considerations
Multiband Compression
Limiters
Mid-Side Processing
Analogue and digital systems
Advanced effects manipulation techniques
Sound restoration
Dynamic range and loudness
Peak and RMS Metering

1.4 Formatting
Noise reduction systems
Theory of digital sound reproduction
CD (book formats, sample rates, record levels, ID codes)
Surround sound for music
Encoding MP3, AAC and Internet Audio Streaming
High Definition audio and DVD
Dither

3.5.Communicating with a range of cultures
Content of interest to Maori audience
New Zealand cultural identities
Content from at least one other culture
Modes of address appropriate to the audience
Learning and Teaching Resource: Students adopt industry or professional focus prescribed by lecturer in project brief.
Students contribute to research of course content.
Students research briefs to extend and individualise projects and criteria.
Students identify problems with their process and adopt strategies to address those problems.
Students identify specific issues in relation to issues prescribed by lecturer.
Students participate in informal assessed presentations of their work.
Students obtain feedback from formative assessment performed by self, peers and lecturer.
Students obtain feedback from graded assessment performed by lecturer.