Module PMP105 - Music Technology In Performance

MODULE SPECIFICATION TEMPLATE

1The title of the module

Music Technology in Performance

2The Department which will be responsible for management of the module

Music

3The Start Date of the Module

Sep 2007

4The number of students expected to take the module

15

5Modules to be withdrawn on the introduction of this proposed module and consultation with other relevant Departments and Faculties regarding the withdrawal

None

6The level of the module (eg Certificate [C], Intermediate [I], Honours [H] or Postgraduate [M])

C

7The number of credits which the module represents

15

8Which term(s) the module is to be taught in (or other teaching pattern)

Autumn, Spring, Summer

9Prerequisite and co-requisite modules

None

10The programmes of study to which the module contributes

Foundation Degree in Popular Music Performance

11The intended subject specific learning outcomes and, as appropriate, their relationship to programme learning outcomes

By the end of this module, students will have:

  1. Demonstrated a competent grasp of the fundamentals of music synthesis and synthesizer programming.
  2. Demonstrated a competent knowledge of the function of individual audio processing tools, both hardware and software based, and the ways in which these tools may be combined.
  3. Demonstrated a competent level of aural recognition of various audio processing tools, both singly and in combination.
  4. Gained an understanding of the possibilities and practical implementation of audio processing technology to enhance or manipulate live instrumental or vocal performance.

These learning outcomes support the achievement of all the programme outcomes, but are particularly relevant to: B3, B4, C6-C9

12The intended generic learning outcomes and, as appropriate, their relationship to programme learning outcomes

By the end of this module, students will have:

  1. Developed their ability to work with complex material, analyse problems and identify appropriate solutions.
  2. Developed their skills of written and oral communication.
  3. Developed skills and techniques, and the ability to use them within creative contexts

These learning outcomes support the achievement of all the programme outcomes, but are particularly relevant to: D5

13A synopsis of the curriculum

This module will introduce students to the concepts behind and the practical use of music technology in the specific area of live performance. Students will attain a level of skills in the operation of audio hardware and software and will practise these skills in live performance situations. Topics covered will include: Signal paths and the function of the basic components in a simple synthesizer, programming a simple synthesizer sound or “patch”, the three principle forms of audio processing (time domain, volume domain and timbral domain) and their practical operation, aural recognition and identification of the audio processing used in various pre-recorded audio tracks, and the creative use of audio processing tools and techniques in live performance.

14Indicative Reading List

TOOP, D.Ocean of sound: aether talk, ambient sound and imaginary worlds2001 Simon Emmerson Living Electronic Music

Pinch & TroccoAnalogue Days

15Learning and Teaching Methods, including the nature and number of contact hours and the total study hours which will be expected of students, and how these relate to achievement of the intended learning outcomes

The total learning time for the module is approximately 150 hours. Learners will be expected to undertake significant independent study and project work. Practical and theoretical workshops will be provided on a weekly basis throughout the duration of the Module. Supported group workshop/ rehearsals will take place on a regular basis to explore creative possibilities provided by technological equipment of various kinds. There will be 2 x 1.5 hr rehearsals for 25 weeks, representing 75 hrs staff contact time, although these rehearsals will also be partially used in the delivery of the Stylistic Awareness Module. Several public performances will provide opportunities for students to present their creative ideas within a live performance setting.

16Assessment methods and how these relate to testing achievement of the intended learning outcomes

This module will be assessed by practical demonstration and verbal explanation of: the signal path through and the function of the basic components in a simple synthesizer, and the ability to program a simple synthesizer sound or “patch” (20%), addressing Module Outcomes 1 and 5; an explanation of examples of audio tools each demonstrating one of the three principle forms of audio processing (20%), addressing Module Outcome 2; the practical operation of each chosen tool and set-up of a signal path using those tools (20%), addressing Module Outcome 2; a description of the audio processing used in various pre-recorded audio tracks (20%), addressing Module Outcomes 3 and 6; the presentation of a written plan for two short instrumental or vocal performances (per student) using any combination of audio processing tools (10%), addressing Module Outcomes 4 and 7; and the preparation and live performance of 2 songs/ introductions/ interludes (per student), using various audio processing techniques (30%), also addressing Module Outcomes 4 and 7.

17Implications for learning resources, including staff, library, IT and space

There are no additional implications for learning resources, staff, library, and IT beyond those which are covered in the business plan for establishing the Foundation Degree in Popular Music Performance course.

18A statement confirming that, as far as can be reasonably anticipated, the curriculum, learning and teaching methods and forms of assessment do not present any non-justifiable disadvantage to students with disabilities

As far as can be reasonably anticipated, the curriculum, learning and teaching methods and forms of assessment for this module do not present any non-justifiable disadvantage to students with disabilities.