An Introduction to the module

1. MO4 S15 Digital Music Production

2. Module Tutor
Name Stuart Jones
Position
Senior Lecturer | Course Leader for MSc Music Engineering and
Production
Email stuart.jones3@southwales.ac.uk
Tel. (01443) 668629
Room CA A406. Office Hours Thursday 2-3pm (After session)
Term Dates
Autumn Term 25/09/2017 - 15/12/2017
Spring Term 08/01/2018 - 23/03/18
Summer Term 16/04/2018 - 01/06/18
Other Information
Credit Value 20
Level 7 (Post Graduate)

3. Module Aims
• To equip students with relevant technological skills for song writing and song production, using
contemporary music technologies.
• To develop the skills required to create and produce original computer- based compositions.
• To maximise the potential for creative output through the use of music technology software.
• To support the development of practical skills associated with electronic and computer music to
an advanced level.

4. Content Summary
The module provides the student with the opportunity to develop skills in composition, audio and MIDI
recording, editing and processing within the computer domain to an advanced level. The recording
portfolio will be developed through tutorial guidance and the student will use established and/or
experimental processes to achieve their aims.

5. Learning Outcomes
•Appraise and assess the range of digital music production techniques available, informed by current
research or advanced scholarship within the subject domain (disciplinary methodologies).
•Analyse and select appropriate techniques related to composition, recording, editing and processing,
demonstrating initiative, originality and practical understanding in the application of appropriately
chosen production strategies (application).
•Design and arrange a well-judged recording portfolio to a professional standard, organising and
producing the material in a manner that demonstrates self-direction in problem-solving, planning and
implementing tasks (autonomy in skill use) level.

6. Who is the Module For?
•Those students new to music production who are willing to progress quickly.
•Self-taught producers who wish to develop their workflow.
•Students wishing to become Apple Certified Users.
Who is the Module Not For?
•Students who are happy with their level of desktop production and the software they use to produce
music.

7. Delivery Methodology
During the first semester, we take a hands-on approach to learning the software working through project
files and media provided to you. It’s divided into lessons that introduce the interface elements and ways of
working with them, building progressively until you can comfortably grasp the entire application and its
standard workflows. Each lesson is designed to support the concepts learned in the preceding lesson.
Supporting video tutorials are provided on Blackboard. Each lesson is self-contained, so when you need to
review a topic, you can quickly jump to any lesson and its supporting video.
In the second semester, we take a look at more advanced production techniques, workflows and analyse
some professionally recorded material. We conclude by looking at mastering techniques and how these
can add a final polish to a mix.

8. Week Session
1 Creating a Song
2 Recording Audio
3 Editing Audio
4 Producing a Virtual Drum Track
5 Recording MIDI and Using Controllers
6 Creating and Editing MIDI
7 Editing Pitch and Time
8 Editing an Arrangement
9 Mixing
10 Automating the Mix
11 Preparing Material for the Recording Studio
12 Tutorials
Semester 1

9. Week Session
1 Working with Picture
2 Working with Picture
3 Vocal Production
4 Vocal Production
5 Multitrack Masters
6 Advanced Mixing-
7 Advanced Mixing
8 Mastering Audio
9 Mastering Audio
10 Student Project
11 Student Project
12 Student Project
Semester 2
Some flexibility required

10. Computer Lab Work
Each workstation consists of an iMac running Logic Pro X, a Focusrite audio interface and a MIDI
keyboard. Each week you will need to bring your own headphones with a ¼ inch headphone adaptor.
You should also prepare to take notes. The ‘Formative Assessment - Logic Pro X 10.3’ section of this
document may also be used for revision.

11. Blackboard
Announcements Module announcements and information
Module Handbook
Information on module tutor, term dates, module aims, content summary,
learning outcomes, delivery methodology, weekly programme, assignment
information.
Assessment Assignment briefs and submission details.
Reading List On line reading lists and library lists.
Video Tutorials Video tutorials for semester one.
Additional Reading,
Listening and Viewing
Supporting lecture notes, book excepts, Power Point presentations, web
sites act.
Spotify Playlist For your listening pleasure

12. Pro Apps Certification
Apple Certified Professional certifications are for the creative
professional using Final Cut Pro X or Logic Pro X. These
certifications distinguish the learner as a skilled user, and provide a
competitive edge in today’s ever-changing job market. Each
student will be given the opportunity to become an Apple Certified
Professional.

13. MO4 S15 Digital Music Production
Stuart Jones
BSc (Hons), PGCE, SFHEA
Senior Lecturer in Music & Sound Technology
Room CA A406
University of South Wales
The Atrium
86-88 Adam Street
Cardiff
CF24 2FN
Tel. 01443 668629
stuart.jones3@southwales.ac.uk
https://magicfingerlounge.wordpress.com/