http://advanced.aviary.com/tools/audio-editor (free audio editor)
http://musescore.org/en/download (free music notation software)
SCOPE
This is an upper level class open tostudents who already read music, have taken AP Music Theory, or have permissionby the instructor. Students will be assigned compositional projects, usingnotational, and recording/MIDI software Finale and Sonar.
GENERALOBJECTIVES
This class focuses on developing studentcompositions through utilizing DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) technology, usingSonar X1 Producer,Dimension Pro, andE-MU Proteus. Students work onboth audio and MIDI based projects, learning recording techniques, including multi-trackrecording, multi-channel mixing, audio editing, and CD production. Class projects include producing two full-lengthCD’s of all student compositions for distribution on Christmas Concert and FineArts Day. Other projects will include workingcollaboratively with Art and poetry students composing music for animations, paintingsand Salmagundi.
EVALUATION
Grade | Performance |
95-100 | The student has demonstrated technical mastery of the equipment. The student consistently applies themselves with best effort, using class time to the fullest. Student has thoughtfully and creatively composed a work addressing all the goals of the project with refinement and attention to detail. |
93-94 | The student has demonstrated near-technical mastery of the equipment. The student applies themselves with best effort, using class time well. Student has thoughtfully and creatively composed a work addressing all the goals of the project with attention to detail. |
88-92 | The student has demonstrated good proficiency of the equipment. The student applies themselves with good effort, using class time well. Student has creatively composed a work addressing most goals of the project with attention to details. |
85-87 | The student has demonstrated adequate proficiency of the equipment. The student applies themselves with moderate effort, using class time well. Student has composed a work addressing many goals of the project. |
80-84 | The student has demonstrated moderate proficiency of the equipment. The student applies themselves with inconsistent effort, not always using class time well. Student has composed a work, addressing some goals of the project. |
78-79 | The student has demonstrated little proficiency of the equipment. The student applies themselves with inconsistent effort, not always using class time well. Student has composed a work, addressing minimal goals of the project.. |
74-77 | The student has demonstrated little proficiency of the equipment. The student applies themselves with inconsistent effort, and does not using class time well. Student is unable to compose music. |
70-73 | The student has demonstrated little or no proficiency of the equipment. The student applies themselves with insignificant effort, and does not using class time well. Student is unable to compose music. |
0 | The student has not demonstrated any proficiency of the equipment. The student does not apply themselves at all. Student is unable to compose music. |
TEXT/SUPPLIES
- Headphones—A limited number of school headphones are available, but purchasing your own recording-quality headphones (such as the Sennheiser HD 280 Pro)is recommended. You may also use inexpensive ear buds, though something with a full frequency response is better If you do purchase, do not leave in the studio.
- Memory Stick (optional)
EVALUATION
Grades areevaluated based on the following:
Classroom evaluation...........................50%
Quiz......................................................20%
Minor Projects.....................................10%
Major Projects.....................................20%
TEACHER EXPECTATIONS AND STANDARDS
1. Allstudents are to be present, prepared and punctual and maintain a positiveattitude and respectful presence in class.
2. Studentsare expected to use the recording studio equipment with care, making sure to understandall equipment before using it.
3. Studentsare responsible for turning off all hardware and putting away all equipment inthe control room (rolling up cables and microphone storage) before leaving the class. The exception is if a student is in themiddle of a long-term audio project, involving the recording booths. In this case equipment may be left inposition.
4. Thestudent may be required to assume financial responsible for damage(s) to equipmentresulting from misuse (becarefulwith microphones, headphones and cables!)
5. Oncomposition projects, students may collaborate in pairs, but collaborationsmust be anequalpartnership.
6. Ina collaborative project, students will equally share a grade evaluation,providing there is equal creative input..
7. Throughoutthe year, some class time will be designated for group auditioning ofcompositions-in-progress. Students areexpected to offer their criticism, praise, and evaluation.
8. IMPORTANT: This class requires you to workindependently. Manage your time well—DO NOT WASTE IT. This is time for you to develop your creativity, not to spend onhomework for other classes!