Music Technology (HMTC)

Video Production: "Hearts and Conceptions" by Larry B. Binns

Jacobs School of Music, 2005 (N-514, Music Technology Methods)

 

Music Tech has numerous applications in the recording and film industries. An area that intrigues many young people is creating the soundscape for video games and composing soundtracks for short animated segments that accompany the video games. Not only is it fun but also financially rewarding.To prepare for such a career it is vital that one develops piano/keyboarding skills. The digital keyboard is one of the primary music technology tools that a composer uses, along with the computer. Many composers are also quite interested in computer science and often have earned degrees in that field as well as in music composition and/or music technology. Although technology is used for making fully orchestrated demos, a real orchestra is often used to record the actual final tracks. Thus, it is important to study orchestration and arranging to become familiar with as many instruments as possible.

 

Music technology encompasses many disciplines essential to 21st century career opportunities in areas ranging from video game sound design to music software development. Almost all commercial songwriting and composing is done with the aid of computers. Notation software that is used for composing and orchestrating is in abundance and is quite useful when used appropriately. However, the creativity of individuals should never be replaced by the mere manipulation of instrumental loops included in software programs. The video and music above was an assignment to enable students in the master degree program to develop their creative processes while utilizing technology. Music notation programs such as Finale and Garritan Personal Orchestra were used as tools. However, the musical components had to be created by traditional means, imagination and inspiration.