Music Technology

Subject MUSI20008 (2011)

Note: This is an archived Handbook entry from 2011.

Credit Points: 6.25
Level: 2 (Undergraduate)
Dates & Locations:

This subject is not offered in 2011.
Time Commitment: Contact Hours: 1 one-hour seminar per week
Total Time Commitment: 60 hours
Prerequisites: None
Corequisites: N/A
Recommended Background Knowledge: 740-102 Computing for Musicians, or equivalent prior experience is recommended but not compulsory.
Non Allowed Subjects: N/A
Core Participation Requirements: It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability will impact on meeting the requirements of this subject are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and the Disability Liaison Unit.

Contact

Faculty of the VCA and Music Student Centre
Email: vcam-info@unimelb.edu.au
Tel: +61 3 9685 9419
Fax: +61 3 9685 9358
Web: http://www.vcam.unimelb.edu.au/
Subject Overview:

Students will develop skills in the applications of computers for composition and music production, using technologies such as MIDI, sampling (digital audio), software synthesis and QuickTime. The subject includes a broad study of historical developments in the technology and practice of electronic music.
Objectives:

On completion of this subject, students should be able to:

  • understand key concepts and terminology from several areas of contemporary music technology, such as MIDI, analogue and digital audio, sampling and synthesis
  • demonstrate practical skills in applying music production tools to their chosen projects, whether these use MIDI, digital audio or synthesis software (or a combination of these)
  • demonstrate understanding of the important developments in music technology over the last 100 years, and be familiar with a number of composers and performers who have used technology in significant ways.
Assessment:

A major creative project due at the end of semester (50%); a written report of 750 words due mid-semester (25%); a one-hour short answer test during the examination period (25%)
Prescribed Texts: None
Breadth Options:

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.
Fees Information: Subject EFTSL, Level, Discipline & Census Date
Generic Skills:

On completion of this subject students should be able to:

  • self-direct their learning of complex software packages through the use of computer-based and online resources
  • negotiate around the common design constraints of music software, in order to advance the musical aims of the project at hand
  • approach the learning of new technologies with a positive, explorative attitude.
Related Course(s): Bachelor of Music
Diploma in Music (Practical)

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