Digital Music Engineering & Production

Digital Music Engineering & Production

Course Syllabus 2023-2024

Course Name:  Digital Music Engineering & Production

Teacher:  Dr. Nick DiSalvio

[email protected]

865-829-7770 x3803

Course Content:  The Digital Music Production course provides students with the basic knowledge and technical skills needed to prepare them for postsecondary study or entry-level employment in the Digital Music Production industry. Students will develop knowledge of the business of music, music copyright laws and ethics, studio recording, basic music theory needed to create music, and the creation and performance of electronic music.

Course Description:  This course is designed for students interested in music and exploring the world of music technology. This class will equip students with a working knowledge of the industry tools for composition and notation, sound recording/engineering, web presence development and the history of commercial music in the United States. The class will develop students’ understanding of basic computer systems and tools that the music industry uses as well as provide hands-on learning for basic recording and mixing techniques. The Music Technology class will equip the student with a working knowledge of the art of music through the use of software and hardware designed to assist in the creation, amplification and alteration of music. In addition to developing compositional abilities, experiences will include the development of skills needed to analyze and evaluate music. Students will continue to explore music’s relationship with other disciplines and its impact on culture, and development of ability to perform, record, present, and discuss original compositions.

Course Objectives:  Students will be able to:

•  Apply the principles of audio and MIDI theory and tools including microphones, mixers, sequencers and controllers to record, edit, and mix broadcast quality music on Digital Audio Workstations
• Employ an understanding of rhythmic theory and tools such as click tracks, tempo tracks, and quantizing to ensure desired conformity to tempo in recorded performances
• Apply an understanding of effects processors such as equalizers, compressors, and reverb to achieve spectral and dynamic balance and depth in mixes
• Put together a high functioning Digital Audio Workstation integrating a computer, audio interface, and non-linear audio recording/editing/mixing software.
•  Develop listening skills to draw from the rich tradition of music production techniques to apply creative applications of sonic tools to modern productions
• Apply the concepts of recording and mixing to live concert production

Required Texts and Resources:

• Digital Portfolio - Created in class via Google Drive
• Apple Mac Mini Computer (Computer Lab)
• MIDI interface instruments (Computer Lab)
• Notebook and pencils (provided by the student).

Course Policies:

• Student participation will be graded on a daily basis.  Any student unprepared (without the required materials) or unwilling to participate (doing work from other classes, not staying on task, disrupting class) will be marked down for the day.  
• Students are expected to treat all equipment with care
• All students are required to follow all policies cited in the student handbook.

Responsibilities:  Students are to:

• Arrive on time to class, and be ready to work when the bell rings.
• Bring all required materials to class every day.
• Take notes as instructed.
• Turn in any assignments completed and on time.
• Treat the teacher and their fellow students with respect.
• Actively participate in class each day.

Evaluation:  The following types of evaluation will be used in this class:

• Quizzes, worksheets and written assignments.
• Sight-reading and Prepared Music exams
• Class participation.

Rotations:

Rotations must be scheduled during periods when students have study halls or free periods which correspond with Dr. DiSalvio’s office hours.  A list of office hours is posted on the bulletin board outside the Band Room (C135).

Grading Policy:

Quarterly Grade

Weekly Rehearsal Participation: 10 points

DAW Quick Creations: 25 points

Project Submissions: 100 points