Module Details

Module Code: MUSC8129
Title: Digital Music Production
Long Title: Digital Music Production
NFQ Level: Advanced
Valid From: Semester 1 - 2024/25 ( September 2024 )
Duration: 1 Semester
Credits: 5
Field of Study: 2121 - Music & Performing Arts
Module Delivered in: 1 programme(s)
Module Description: Utilising a digital audio workstation (DAW) to create music through use of virtual instruments, sampling & audio manipulation with a focus on creative practical application of varying styles and techniques of commercial music production to create a portfolio of work.
 
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module the learner will be able to:
# Learning Outcome Description
LO1 Manipulate audio samples, loops, found sounds, and field recordings to craft original compositions.
LO2 Use and creatively manipulate MIDI instruments and software synthesisers to produce original musical ideas.
LO3 Create a remix by reimagining an existing track, applying fundamental remixing techniques.
LO4 Apply foundational mixing and mastering techniques to prepare audio for delivery on digital streaming platforms.
LO5 Create stylistically expansive music productions in varying commercial styles with an emphasis on creativity according to specific briefs.
LO6 Present their work to an audience of peers and participate in constructive critique sessions to improve their compositions.
Dependencies
Module Recommendations

This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is strongly recommended before enrolment in this module. You may enrol in this module if you have not acquired the recommended learning but you will have considerable difficulty in passing (i.e. achieving the learning outcomes of) the module. While the prior learning is expressed as named MTU module(s) it also allows for learning (in another module or modules) which is equivalent to the learning specified in the named module(s).
12255 MUSC6001 Music & Technology 1-2
13192 MUSC7006 Music & Technology 3
21181 MUSC8129 Digital Music Production
Incompatible Modules
These are modules which have learning outcomes that are too similar to the learning outcomes of this module. You may not earn additional credit for the same learning and therefore you may not enrol in this module if you have successfully completed any modules in the incompatible list.
No incompatible modules listed
Co-requisite Modules
18160 MUSC8041 Music & Technology 5
Requirements

This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is mandatory before enrolment in this module is allowed. You may not enrol on this module if you have not acquired the learning specified in this section.
No requirements listed
 
Indicative Content
Software skills
Development of skills using industry standard software environments, apps, and plugins.
Creativity
Utilising experimentation and innovation while managing timeframes and strict briefs.
Stylistic Techniques
Research and analysis of different artistic and technical practices utilised in commercial music production across varied genres.
Module Content & Assessment
Assessment Breakdown%
Coursework100.00%

Assessments

Coursework
Assessment Type Other % of Total Mark 50
Timing Every Week Learning Outcomes 1,2,3,4,5,6
Assessment Description
You will be assigned weekly production briefs, of varying styles and technical challenges, to create very short pieces and remixes with an emphasis on creativity. These pieces will be presented weekly in front of your peers for critique and technical debate during which you will receive feedback. Each piece must be delivered to a commercially acceptable standard.
Assessment Type Project % of Total Mark 50
Timing Sem End Learning Outcomes 1,2,3,4,5
Assessment Description
Submit a portfolio/mixtape which consists of the very short pieces you have created on a weekly basis throughout the semester developed utilising the feedback you have received throughout the module and incorporating the techniques you have learned. The portfolio must be delivered to a commercially acceptable standard.
No End of Module Formal Examination
Reassessment Requirement
Coursework Only
This module is reassessed solely on the basis of re-submitted coursework. There is no repeat written examination.

The University reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment

 

Module Workload

Workload: Full Time
Workload Type Contact Type Workload Description Frequency Average Weekly Learner Workload Hours
Lecture Contact Music Production Techniques Every Week 1.00 1
Lab Contact Individual weekly presentations, atelier style, in front of peers who will discuss, critique and offer feedback on your weekly assignments Every Week 1.00 1
Independent & Directed Learning (Non-contact) Non Contact Production Assignments Every Week 5.00 5
Total Hours 7.00
Total Weekly Learner Workload 7.00
Total Weekly Contact Hours 2.00
Workload: Part Time
Workload Type Contact Type Workload Description Frequency Average Weekly Learner Workload Hours
Lecture Contact Music Production Techniques Every Week 1.00 1
Lab Contact Individual weekly presentations, atelier style, in front of peers who will discuss, critique and offer feedback on your weekly assignments Every Week 1.00 1
Independent & Directed Learning (Non-contact) Non Contact Production Assignments Every Week 5.00 5
Total Hours 7.00
Total Weekly Learner Workload 7.00
Total Weekly Contact Hours 2.00
 
Module Resources
Recommended Book Resources
  • Jon Margulies. (2018), Ableton Live 10 Power!: The Comprehensive Guide, 1st. Hobo Technologies, p.524, [ISBN: 9780692061350].
  • Friedemann Sallis (Editor), Valentina Bertolani (Editor), Jan Burle (Editor), Laura Zattra (Editor). (2017), Live Electronic Music: Composition, Performance, Study (Routledge Research in Music), Routledge, p.358, [ISBN: 9780367869267].
This module does not have any article/paper resources
Other Resources
 
Module Delivered in
Programme Code Programme Semester Delivery
CR_GPOPM_8 Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Popular Music 7 Elective