Lecture: 2 hours/week
Lab: 3 hours/week
In this course, students will participate in lectures and demonstrations, working alongside the instructor, in the large studio or Technology Lab. Students will be expected to complete regular assignments and projects outside of class time. These will be done in the large studio.
- DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) session strategy and microphone selection
- Exploring the signal chain: pre-amp, dynamics, effects and microphone choice
- Critical listening skills I: width and depth, frequency range, dynamics and different mix approaches
- Critical listening skills II: panning, types of reverb, delay, compression, phasing/flanging/chorus, etc.
- Track cleanup: de-ess, utilize parametric EQ (equalization) and compression while mixing
- Using Pro Tools HD (high definition) hardware, selection, editing, clip gain, automation, plug-in processing
- Intellectual property and Indigenous cultural rights, including sampling, production and distribution processes
- Mid-Side recording techniques and mixing techniques
- Submixes and parallel processing within Pro Tools
- Advanced automation techniques (clip gain vs. fader automation, dynamic enhancement)
- Mixing with multichannel vs. multi-mono applications in Pro Tools
- Advanced delay use (long delays, delay filters, Haas effect, slap delays, comb-filtering, doubling techniques, automated delays, etc.)
- Recording and mixing string instruments (violin, viola, cello, etc.)
- Recording and mixing wind instruments (saxophone, flute, etc.)
- Advanced Pro Tools use (window configurations, groove extraction and groove quantization, linear tempo changes, etc.)
- Chopping and manipulating samples in Logic
- Hybrid recording and mixing techniques
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- Analyze and optimize complex signal chains for professional audio production;
- Apply advanced tracking techniques for multi-instrument and layered sessions;
- Capture high-quality recordings of acoustic instruments considering room acoustics and mic selection;
- Critically assess frequency balance, stereo imaging and dynamic range in professional mixes;
- Produce and mix projects in Pro Tools using advanced routing, automation and plugin management;
- Abide by intellectual property and Indigenous cultural rights as they relate to music technology including sampling, production and distribution processes.
Assessment will be based on course objectives and will be in accordance with the Douglas College Evaluation Policy.
The following is a sample grades breakdown:
| Tests/ Quizzes (minimum of 2) | 30% |
| Midterm Project | 25% |
| Final Project | 35% |
| Professionalism | 10% |
| Total | 100% |
Professionalism is assessed on consistent attendance, punctuality, taking responsibility for deadlines, constructive and considerate interpersonal communication and contribution to class discussion and group work.
Instructors may use a student's record of attendance and/or level of active participation as part of the student's graded performance. Expectations and grade calculations regarding class attendance and participation will be clearly defined in the Instructor Course Outline.
This is a letter-graded course.
No texts or materials are required. All required hardware and software for the completion of assignments and projects is available in the studios or lab.
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