Course

Sequencing and Synthesis I

Faculty
Language, Literature and Performing Arts
Department
Music
Course code
MUSC 1171
Credits
3.00
Semester length
15 weeks
Max class size
30
Method(s) of instruction
Lecture
Lab
Course designation
None
Industry designation
None
Typically offered
To be determined

Overview

Course description
Through lecture, demonstrations and hands-on studio work, students will learn to produce music using sequencers and synthesizers. Emphasis will be placed on understanding the underlying concepts and theory of digital sequencing and synthesis. Using current music software and virtual instruments, students will produce several original works.
Course content
  1. The Logic Pro Interface
  2. Creating scenes in Logic Pro
  3. Using live loops
  4. Recording and editing MIDI
  5. Using MIDI continuous controllers 
  6. Quantizing MIDI information
  7. Programming and customizing Logic instrument interfaces
  8. Considerations when working with Indigenous culture, communities and artists
  9. Editing samples and drum loops
  10. Editing audio
  11. Using digital signal processing: compression, limiting, reverb and effects
  12. Arrangement
  13. Mixing
  14. Beat mapping
  15. Creating Apple loops
Learning activities

Lectures, demonstrations and hands-on experience.

Means of assessment

Assessment will be based on course objectives and will be carried out in accordance with the Douglas College Evaluation Policy. 

The following is an example evaluation scheme:

Tests/Quizzes (3)  25%
Midterm Projects (2)  30%
Final Project  35%
Professionalism 10%
Total 100%

Students' record of attendance and/or level of active participation in the course forms part of the student's graded performance. Expectations and and grade calculations regarding class attendance and participation will be clearly defined in the Instructor Course Outline.

Professionalism is assessed on consistent attendance, punctuality, taking responsibility for deadlines, recognizing the 4R's (Respect, Responsibility, Relevance and Reciprocity), constructive and considerate interpersonal communication, and contribution to class discussion and group work.  

 

 

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  1. Create tracks in Logic Pro using MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface); 
  2. Describe sequencer functionality and design;
  3. Input and edit data in a range of sequencer interfaces;
  4. Create sounds using additive, subtractive, frequency modulation (FM) and granular sound synthesis;
  5. Record, edit and layer samples;
  6. Arrange and mix a track in Logic Pro;
  7. Customize virtual instruments and soft synths;
  8. Differentiate between respectful inspiration and cultural appropriation when working with Indigenous musical elements. 
Textbook materials

No texts or materials are required. All required hardware and software for the completion of assignments and projects is available in the lab. Students who wish to work outside the lab may want to purchase their own copies of the software used in class. A complete list of recommended software will be available at the first class session.

Requisites

Prerequisites

None

Corequisites

None

Equivalencies

None

Course Guidelines

Course Guidelines for previous years are viewable by selecting the version desired. If you took this course and do not see a listing for the starting semester / year of the course, consider the previous version as the applicable version.

(Current)

Course Transfers to Other Institutions

Below are current transfer agreements from Douglas College to other institutions for the current course guidelines only. For a full list of transfer details and archived courses, please see the BC Transfer Guide.

Institution Transfer details for MUSC 1171
There are no applicable transfer credits for this course.

Course Offerings

Fall 2026

CRN Days Instructor Status
Maximum seats
26
Currently enrolled
0
Remaining seats:
26
On waitlist
0
Building
New Westminster - North Bldg.
Room
N3220
Times:
Start Time
10:30
-
End Time
12:20
Section notes

MUSC 1171 001 - This course is restricted to Music Technology students.