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CCOG for MUC 224 Spring 2024

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Course Number:
MUC 224
Course Title:
Recording Technology II: Signal Processing & Tracking
Credit Hours:
3
Lecture Hours:
20
Lecture/Lab Hours:
20
Lab Hours:
0

Course Description

Expands on the skills learned and practiced in MUC 223. Covers fundamentals of audio signal processing, stereo microphone techniques, tracking methodologies, and recording to magnetic tape recorders. Includes one completed recording. This is the second course in a three-course series. Prerequisites: MUC 223. Audit available.

Addendum to Course Description

Recording Technology II is designed to examine subjects, touched upon in MUC 223, in greater detail. In labs, practical application of newly learned tracking and signal processing techniques augment understanding by providing audio examples created by the students. Students are required to provide feedback to their peers on a regular basis.

Intended Outcomes for the course

Upon completion of the course students should be able to:

  • Plan and execute a simple recording session.
  • Use various types, makes, and models of signal processing equipment to edit, enhance, and mix their recordings.
  • Critically listen to and analyze music on a technical level.

Course Activities and Design

Material for the course will be presented in a lecture format but also instructor-led and student-led labs.

  • Performance reviews
  • Exams
  • Weekly labs with small group work
  • Class participation and discussion
  • One day long recording session (8 hours)

Outcome Assessment Strategies

Students will demonstrate their understanding of the basic theory of recording and the physics governing the process by successfully completing exams. They will also be required to complete a "hands on" performance review of skills learned in the labs. Lastly, they will organize, plan, and execute a recording session with musicians of their choice and create a CD copy that can be critiqued by their peers and instructors.

Course Content (Themes, Concepts, Issues and Skills)

COMPETENCIES AND SKILLS:

  1. Calibrate a multi-track tape recorder and analog mix console.
  2. Utilize signal flow theory to achieve desired sonic results.
  3. Identify Frequencies and Harmonic spectra to create a desired emotional response.
  4. Utilize organizational and logistical skills to plan a recording session with multiple collaborators
  5. Demonstrate critical listening of subtle recorded sounds and noise
  6. Understand stereo microphone patterns and their uses
  7. Complete a live recording to 2-track tape.
  8. Demonstrate improved people management skills