Offerings range from introductory to intermediate levels of skill and preparation. All college facilities use Apple hardware and compatible software. Participants have limited hands-on opportunities, and most seminars are demonstration-based.
Scoring to picture: Learn the basics of writing music for film, television, or games. This includes creative interpretation of visuals, working with clients, integration of the picture into music software, and composing/producing your own tracks using synthesizers and sequencers.
Critical listening: Explore techniques used to analyze popular recordings from a variety of perspectives, both technical and musical.
Multimedia authoring: Learn how music and audio functions within interactive multimedia environments such as the web, computer games, and live performance. Powerful multimedia authoring tools will be introduced.
Audio and MIDI production: Gain an overview of MIDI sequencing and audio production techniques using state-of-the-art software and synthesis hardware. Emphasis will be placed on recording and editing your own material in the DAW environment.
Business of music production: Discuss licensing, publishing, royalties, contracts, and distribution.
Synthesizer programming: Learn about synthesizer architecture and programming concepts common to all synthesizers, as well as sound/patch design and application using a variety of synthesis technologies.
Multitrack recording techniques: Participate in an accelerated workshop covering many aspects of recording, including microphone selection and placement, equalization, and dynamic signal processing.
Multitrack mixing techniques: Explore the aesthetic choices related to balance, dynamics, arrangement, preparation, and realization of a successful mix.
Project/home studio design and setup: Learn about basic equipment requirements, budget considerations, affordable acoustic modifications, and the formation of appropriate expectations.
Live electronic/laptop performance: Learn about tools and techniques used in live electronic performance.
Circuit bending and alternate controllers: Explore the emerging world of circuit bending as a sound-generation technique and examine the use of alternate controllers in performance and production.
Making and selling your own recordings: Discover how mastering can enhance your final product, as well as how to prepare for manufacturing, design your package, and determine the most successful marketing methods for independently released albums.
Guest lecturer presentation: Hear a special lecture on topics related to technological innovation presented by an industry professional.
Evening sessions: Enjoy additional seminars, demonstrations, and lab time.
Please assess your familiarity in the areas listed below. Schedules will be distributed at check-in.
| Electronic Production |
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| Level 1 |
Level 2 |
- The nature of MIDI data
- Recording and editing MIDI
- File formats
- Quantization and timing
- Using multitimbral sound engines
- Using multiport interfaces
- Arranging considerations
|
- Musical phrasing with MIDI
- Articulation
- Dynamics
- Modulation
- Using alternate controllers
- Realism in acoustic instrument emulation
- Advanced quantization techniques for natural feel
- Virtual instruments
- Market applications of MIDI files without digital audio
|
| Multitrack Recording Techniques |
|
|
Level 1
|
Level 2 |
- Development of the modern recording studio
- Recording console basics
- Studio and console signal flow
- Live-to-two track and multitrack recording and mixdown
- Microphones
- Signal processing
|
- Discussion and demonstration of recording techniques for drums, acoustic piano, horns, and electric and acoustic guitars
- Microphone selection and placement
- Complex versus simple mic techniques
- Considerations for linkage and isolation
- Stylistic concepts that influence our approach to tracking
|
|
Digital Audio
|
|
| Level 1 |
Level 2 |
- Digital audio basics (sample rate, bit resolution, AES/EBU and SP/PDIF, DAT, and direct-to-disk
- Digital audio editing (destructive and nondestructive) using Peak
- Digital audio production tools and techniques
- Sequencer applications (MIDI and direct-to-disk software)
- ProTools (disk-based, non-linear multitrack)
- Taped-based, linear multitrack
|
- Creating drum loops
- Changing pitch and tempo and audio events
- Matching tempos
- Replacing MIDI events with audio events
- Integrating MIDI and audio
- Using digital signal processing and plug-ins
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