Introduction to Music Technology

Course Title: Introduction to Music Technology

Type of Course: Adult Education

Credit: Not credit bearing

Taught Hours: 20

Session Titles

1. Introduction to Music Technology

2. Music Programming Fundamentals

3. Basic Audio Recording Techniques

4. Audio Editing Essentials

5. Sampling and Sound Synthesis

6. Songwriting Tips and Techniques

7. Mixing Down

8. Introduction to Effects and Plugins

9. MIDI Programming

10. Final Project Development

Course Overview

This 10-week beginner-level course introduces participants to effective technologies for music-making, sound production, and manipulation. Using the Reaper software, students will be guided through music programming, audio recording and editing, sampling, sound synthesis, and mixing techniques.

The course is designed to support students in producing their own sound files, which can be used creatively in music production, as audio backgrounds for websites and social media posts, or simply to explore the possibilities of sound engineering.

Required Previous Experience (if any)

None required.

Required Reading Material or Special Equipment Needed (if any)

None required.

Learning Outcomes

On completion of this course you will be better prepared to:

• Understand and utilize basic music programming and audio recording techniques.
• Apply sampling and sound synthesis methods in music production.
• Perform mixing and editing of audio tracks using Reaper software.

Teaching and Learning Approach

The teaching and learning approach for this course combines tutor-led instruction, group activities, and independent study supported by individual guidance from the tutor. Classes are conducted face-to-face in a classroom setting and utilise diverse teaching methods, including presentations, multimedia resources, class discussions, and interactive activities.

These methods are selected to engage students, accommodate varied learning styles, and support effective understanding of the subject matter. The approach is also designed to recognise and be responsive to the diverse experiences, backgrounds, identities, and cultural perspectives represented within the student cohort, fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students.

Additional Information

This course descriptor may be subject to change during the delivery of the course, depending on the specific direction and nature of the learner cohort, and is intended to be responsive to the group dynamics as they emerge during the delivery of the course.