Music Recording Technology Courses

Fundamentals of digital audio manipulation, recording and production within industry-standard digital audio workstation software. Focus on essential functionality and technical proficiency within audio platforms such as Avid ProTools and Ableton LIVE. Introduction to MIDI sequencing, digital signal processing and audio editing.

This is an introductory course that will provide the foundational skills to learn and function within the Pro Tools audio production environment. Pro Tools represents a new generation of digital audio workstations that uses the power of personal computers and digital signal processing to record multitrack digital audio directly to hard disk. The course covers fundamental fundamental concepts and techniques, including basic acoustics, signal flow, microphone principles and usage, studio equipment, signal processing, recording console functions, and multi-track recording procedures.

Fundamentals of electronic music production and MIDI sequencing. Principles of synthesis, survey of electronic music instruments and their development, MIDI sequencing, drum machines and beat making, and multitrack electronic music production.

This advanced course builds upon the knowledge and technical skills developed in MUSA 22A Electronic Music I. The integration of MIDI and digital audio recording environments will be studied as well as advanced electronic music production. Projects will include audio for film and video, theatrical productions, video games, advertisements, sound effects and sound installations.

Advanced studio recording techniques. Highly specific and refined microphone selection and implementation, complex multichannel signal flow, analog and digital signal processing, and multitrack mixing in the digital audio workstation. Student-produced, hands-on recording sessions in both the studio and live-concert settings.

This course extends basic practical music production and multi-track recording skills to include complex projects, integration of acoustic and digital recording elements, and use of current computer software in the mixing process. Implementation of signal processing to a multichannel audio mix using outboard and virtual signal processors, submixing, busing and summing mixes, complex signal flow, advanced mixer automation, and selected topics in mastering.

Sound design and amplification management for live music events. Management and manipulation of audio signal flow, interconnected amplification hardware, stage monitoring, and real-time audio signal processing for live audio events. Hands-on participation in on-campus live audio events.

This course presents an overview of the business and legal aspects of the music industry. Topics include: career paths, record contracts, publishing, licensing, distribution, and copyright. In addition, the duties and responsibilities of producers, agents, managers, promoters, and performing artists will be examined.

Introduction to sound design and audio post-production for multimedia. Includes creating and editing sound sffects, ADR, Foley, music, and ambience, for multiple visual mediums such as film, TV, video gaming, theatre, and dance. Emphasis on computer assisted production using Digital Audio Workstations and sound design techniques using industry-standard equipment.

Advanced creation of music and audio for video games, including implementation within a video game. Advanced music cue composition, Foley SFX recording and design, and functional implementation in a live game context.

Overview of game sound development, basics of sound effects libraries and working with animation, typical studio effects, sound manipulation, and common troubleshooting. Fundamental techniques of recording custom effects, proper integration of audio, and mixing techniques particular to the gaming industry. Basics of the game audio industry, including professional roles, occupational divisions, scheduling, contracts and workflow.

Internship in the music industry as approved by Music Recording & Technology faculty in the context of the student’s coursework and interests in the MURT department. Cooperative effort between student and music industry supervisor to accomplish agreed upon work objectives and experiential goals. Student provides verification of service experience hours during the term. Music industry organization to be approved by MURT faculty. Hours and duties made in agreement between student and music industry supervisor. Students will meet on-campus with MURT faculty for one hour per week to discuss experience & progress. Faculty permission required for registration in the class.