51A Studio1 Syllabus

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Course Description

Introduction to fundamental concepts and techniques of mixing boards, amplifiers, microphones, compressors, digital signal processors and their application to both live and studio sound recording techniques. Basic introduction to computer based recording with Avid Pro Tools. Microphone placement, physics of sound as it relates to recording, sound reinforcement and studio setup techniques. Learn how to operate the premier Studio A recording facility at Foothill College. This studio features a Pro Tools HDX system, Avid S6 w/moving faders and a great microphone collection. In addition to our class time together, you will be able to book private sessions in Studio A to work on your own projects.(including weekdays and weekends) The studio has gorgeous acoustics and is large enough to accommodate a full orchestra. The main room is famous for getting huge drum sounds.

We will go through the entire process of producing an album, with hands on experience at every stage:

Pre-production
Recording basic rhythm tracks
Setting up headphone mixes
Recording Instruments
Recording Vocals
Overdubbing
Mixing
Mastering
Distribution

Learning Objectives

Interpret the specifications of mixing boards, microphones, and signal processors
Explain the syntax of the audio recording parameters
Discuss the implementation of the microphone/mixing board/amplification/speaker matrix
Design a studio recording system based on specifications of the audio devices available
Construct, configure and operate a sound recording system
Describe and discuss the basic principles of acoustics and the physics of sound
Discuss, compare and contrast cross-cultural sound recording techniques

Prerequisites

There are no prerequisites for this class
Some previous experience with a DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) is highly recommended

Course Outline

Monitoring
Microphones Introduction
Recording Equipment
DAW Recording
Microphone Placement
Recording Drums
Miking Instruments
Recording Bass and Vocals
Acoustic and Electric Piano
The Recording Session
Final Project

Required Subscriptions

pureMix Pro Subscription
- Free coupon provided by in Canvas
LinkedIn Learning
- Free for students

Required Hardware

Computer

Although iOS and Android mobile devices are getting more powerful all the time, Music Technology students need a computer to do a lot of this work
- Either a Mac or Windows computer is fine
As much RAM as you can afford
As much internal storage as you can afford
Processor speeds are not as important

Additional Storage

Dedicated Media Drive is recommended

Required Software

Any DAW (Digital Audio Workstation)
- Including Pro Tools, Logic, Ableton Love, FL Studio, Cubase, Digital Performer, Reaper, GarageBand, Audacity etc.

Copyright and Intellectual Property

Your contributions to this class are a vital ingredient for all of us. The exchange of information and sharing of the creative process contribute to a rich learning experience often greater than any textbook could provide. Music Technology Classes involve the creation of digital media content. Students will retain full ownership of all their works and copyrights. Copyright protection subsists from the time the work is created in fixed form. The copyright in the work of authorship immediately becomes the property of the author who created the work. Only the author, or those deriving their rights through the author, can rightfully claim copyright. In other words, you hold the copyright once you've written it.

Diverse Range of Students

We acknowledge the diversity of the students in all of our Music Tech courses. Many of you join our classes ranging in age and with different backgrounds, experience levels, and skill sets. In teaching so many diverse students, one of our challenges as professors is to provide a personalized experience for all of our students so that you may get the most out of each course and walk away with skills and knowledge that you feel will benefit you for the future. That being said, given the diversity of your backgrounds, it is possible that at certain points, the courses may not be moving at the pace that you would like, whether that be too fast or too slow. If you feel the course is moving too fast and falling behind, please message me as soon as possible so we can help you get caught up and point you in the right direction for resources and materials to help you. If you feel the course is moving too slowly, we would also like you to contact us ASAP and let us know. We have many supplementary materials, including hundreds of articles, videos, and exercises, so you can learn at your preferred pace and get the most out of each course.

Welcome to Class!

We are all in this class because we are moved and inspired by the magnificent magic of music and sound. We are fascinated with Music Technology and the rapidly evolving tools and techniques used in the creative process. Learning the art and science of music production also requires focused work and self-discipline. You should plan on dedicating time each week to study and explore. Your instructors are here to help - so we can all learn and grow together.