Certificate of Higher Education Music Production

Summary

In this module, you will learn sequencing and arranging techniques to facilitate your development as a producer and composer. There will be a focus on the use of foundational music theory concepts which underpin the rhythmic, harmonic, and melodic aspects of composition.

The module positions arrangement as the main lens through which the selection and application of tools and techniques are viewed- where the study of song form and structure will guide your choices of DAW programming and sequencing approaches used for achieving a coherent arrangement.

Module Aims

• Utilise midi protocols in a DAW
• Apply fundamental sequencing techniques
• Develop listening and arrangement skills using fundamental music theory to underpin creative choices

Summary

The module will introduce the theory and practice of sample-based music production through practical exploration and applied theory. You will learn a variety of audio editing, audio manipulation, and sampling techniques, as well as digital audio theory.

Module Aims

The module will encompass the fundamentals of sample-based production, such as sample types, sampling techniques, and audio editing methods. You will learn how to manipulate samples and incorporate them into your own arrangements, as well as how to generate unique sounds using various processing techniques which meet the standards of the modern music production industry.

This module will look at recording audio practically for the modern engineer. It will complement the theories studied in Audio Fundamentals. We will focus on modern engineering essentials and apply them to any setup from large format consoles to bedroom studios. We will focus on gain staging, use of analogue and digital equipment, Mic placement and techniques and running a recording session.

Summary

This module introduces composition techniques and music theory as they apply to contemporary music production as a key part of the modern producer’s toolkit. Through developing critical listening skills and researching practitioners, you will apply these ideas to your own creative work.

The module develops critical listening skills and encourages students to actively analyse and deconstruct different musical genres. Students will learn contemporary music theory by identifying compositional elements like harmonic progressions, melodic structures, and rhythmic patterns.

The module encourages students to research influential practitioners and their work. Students will learn about composition’s many possibilities by studying these artists’ methods. This practice-based research-driven approach allows students to expand their creative horizons and apply their newfound knowledge to their own production. They will also gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the art of composition itself.

The module empowers students to become confident and skilled self-produced artists by exploring influential practitioners’ work, expanding creative horizons, and applying new knowledge.

Module Aims

• To facilitate the development of your competence and confidence in using music theory to support your composition
• To build awareness of the impact of your compositional choices on the music you make

Summary

This module will provide you with an exploration of the theory and application of music synthesis. You will learn about the principles and techniques of sound synthesis, including the several types of synthesis methods and the use of synthesizers in contemporary music production.

Module Aims

The module will explore the fundamental concepts of synthesis, including subtractive synthesis, additive synthesis, wavetable synthesis, and frequency modulation synthesis. You will also learn about the several types of synthesisers, including analogue, digital, and software synthesizers, and their use in contemporary music production.

Summary

This module will introduce the art and techniques of mixing multiple sources of audio into a cohesive-sounding ‘mix.’ The skills developed in this module will allow you to mix multi-track electronic compositions, multi-mic’d live performances or soundtracks for visual media. You will identify areas of the original audio that require improvement, such as sonic quality, arrangement, or performance. You will utilise a variety of tools and techniques related to level balance, spatial image, and frequency balance, and will apply creative processing techniques as relevant to your chosen field of work.

Module Aims

During this module, you will develop your ability to mix multitracked recording projects. This module will also help you develop the following graduate attributes:

• Employability
• Self-Awareness
• Resilience and Adaptability
• Creativity, Collaboration and Connectedness

Full module description to be confirmed