MUSC8135 - Adv. Digital Music Production

Module Details

Module Code: MUSC8135
Title: Adv. Digital Music Production
Long Title: Advanced 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: no programmes
Module Description: The second in a series of modules 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 Employ advanced techniques to manipulate audio samples, loops, found sounds, and field recordings, creating more complex and layered compositions.
LO2 Demonstrate sophisticated use of MIDI instruments, sample libraries and software synthesisers, focusing on innovative sound design and original composition.
LO3 Compile and present a cohesive portfolio of recorded original pieces, demonstrating the evolution of personal style and technical skill.
LO4 Utilise advanced mixing and mastering techniques to enhance audio quality, optimizing recordings for professional digital distribution.
LO5 Produce music that not only reflects a deep understanding of genre conventions but also experiments with blending and innovating within those genres.
LO6 Confidently present finished pieces to an audience of peers, providing and receiving detailed, genre-specific feedback to refine their artistic and technical skills further.
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).
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
No Co-requisite modules listed
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
Advanced Software Skills
Advanced use of software features & mastering of DAWs, including in-depth automation, advanced routing, parallel processing, and customisation of virtual instruments and effects.
Sampling and Editing Techniques
Use of time-stretching, pitch-shifting, granular synthesis, multi-layered sampling, and complex editing workflows to manipulate audio in creative and unexpected ways.
Developing a Personal Style
Encouraging students to find a unique musical identity by exploring unorthodox sound combinations, genre-fusion, and using creative constraints (e.g., limiting the number of sounds to develop new ideas).
Critical Listening and Analysis
Developing skills in critical listening to dissect genre-specific production techniques, stylistic signatures, and their commercial applications.
Advanced Mixing Techniques
Parallel compression, multiband compression, dynamic EQ, stereo widening, mid/side processing, and advanced sidechaining techniques.
Mastering for Streaming Platforms
Techniques for mastering tracks, including loudness normalisation (LUFS standards), mastering chain creation, and finalisation for digital platforms (e.g., Spotify, Apple Music).
Reference Track Use
Employing reference tracks to ensure genre-appropriate sonic balance, depth, and loudness.
Portfolio Development and Curation
Guidance on curating a professional-quality portfolio that showcases versatility, technical skill, and personal style across a variety of production techniques and 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 that encompass a variety of styles and technical challenges, requiring the creation of very short compositions and remixes with a strong emphasis on creativity. These pieces will be presented each week to your peers for critique and technical discussion, during which you will receive constructive feedback. Each submission 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 or mixtape that comprises the very short pieces you have created on a weekly basis throughout the semester, refined using the feedback received during 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
This module has no Part Time workload.
 
Module Resources
Recommended Book Resources
  • Dennis DeSantis. (2015), Making Music: 74 Creative Strategies for Electronic Music Producers, [ISBN: 9783981716504].
  • Jon Margulies. (2018), Ableton Live 10 Power!, [ISBN: 9780692061350].
  • Paul White. (2012), The Producer's Manual, Sample Magic Limited, p.352, [ISBN: 0956446019].
  • David Felton. (2016), Secrets of Dance Music Production, Jake Island Limited, [ISBN: 0956446035].
This module does not have any article/paper resources
Other Resources