LUPEM304 Digital tools in studio and on stage

Contents and structure

Knowledge about music technology for studio and live performance is essential for didactical purposes and for artistic reasons. In this topic, the students will gain experience in working with digital audio workstations (DAW) for the project studio and for performance on stage.

As part of a creative learning process, the students will use a DAW to record their own arrangements and/or compositions. Used as a live instrument, the students will learn how to use controllers to interact with technology and composition during performance, solo or as part of a band setting. To develop listening skills as an integral part of studio activities, work on the student’s main instrument will be integral in the learning processes. A music historical perspective on the development of the recording studio will be part of the course.

Students will learn how to record acoustic and virtual instruments, about acoustics, recording equipment, mixing and the producer’s role. Used as a live instrument, the students will become familiar with the concept of controllerism.

The course aims at giving the student relevant competence in order to teach music production and laptop as main instrument in upper secondary school and in culture school. The students will meet other relevant digital tools and reflect on their use in didactic settings.

Learning Outcome

By the completion of the course, the student has obtained the following learning outcome:

Knowledge

The student

• has comprehensive knowledge about digital music tools and the application of these in didactic and performative settings
• has good knowledge about the evolution of music technology and its impact on music history
• has knowledge about central techniques for arranging and producing music
• has knowledge about composition and song writing

Skills

The student

• can record misc. musical instruments including acoustic and virtual
• can complete a music production process
• can use his or her main instrument in a relevant way in recording processes and in technology enhanced performance
• can use a supportive language generally and when giving feedback to peer students in a recording session

General competence

The student

• can reflect on own role in a recording process
• can reflect on the production process, the creative aspect there of, and how to apply this insight for the purpose of advancing learning and productivity
• can in a constructive and supportive fashion talk about and develop own and other’s work

Entry requirements

None

Teaching methods

The course is founded on practical learning activities where theory is an integral part. Group work and individual work based on active participation is fundamental throughout the course. Classes will be located on campus and to some extent on digital platforms.

Compulsory learning activities

The following compulsory learning activities need to be completed and approved in order to access the course exam.

• Active participation in recording sessions, central arranging and production techniques, main instrument, production techniques, and the completion of compulsory practical, written and oral assignments.
• Individual assignment: Completion of arrangements, compositions, productions, recording of performance and the attendance to supervision linked to the activities.
• Individual assignment: Completion of pedagogical assignment on use of digital tools in teaching and performative practices.
• Group work: presentation of one musical creation for feedback and response. Reflexive text on the role of producer and performer.

In the event of failed assignments, written feedback will be given to the students. Students who fail to complete one or more compulsory learning activities, will have one (1) more chance to revise or to complete an alternative learning task given by the subject teacher. Revised submission date will be within the current term and within specific dates, but no later than 3 weeks prior to the exam period begins.

Further details about compulsory work will be given at beginning of term.

Assessment

Portfolio assessment.

Graded marks A - F.

The portfolio consists of:

• Three student made compositions, arrangements as sound recording or video recording. Counts 50 %. Durata: minimum 10 minutes of recorded music.
• Written assignment - Reflexive text. Counts 30%. Word count: 1200-1400.
• Written assignment - Reflexive text on choices made during mixing or performance of self composed music. Counts 20%. Word count: 900-1100.

If portfolio is not approved, a new submission can be the made next term the course is offered.

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