2 credit course. One year course offered as Music & Computer Technology 1, with option to continue for second year in Music & Computer Technology 2.
Course Description
Music & Computer Technology students at Fairfax Academy are introduced to the latest technology used by modern composers. Students will create individual and group projects in a variety of musical styles and genres using a combination of MIDI and Digital Audio software. Assignments will include composition, arranging, music theory, use of MIDI and synthesizers, and recording in digital audio. All students enter this class with some instrumental and/or vocal musical training, with some students also having prior music theory training. The classroom is equipped with MIDI/Digital Audio computers, each containing music notation software (“Sibelius”), sequencing software (“Sonar”), and digital audio recording/editing software (“Cool Edit Pro”), all standard in the music industry.
Students successfully completing this course will be able to:
• develop an understanding of compositional practices/styles
• use the computer to compose using varied instrumentations and electronic media
• develop a fundamental understanding of the properties of musical sound and how sound is created and used synthetically
• develop familiarity with music notation software as well as skill in using synthesizers, setting up and composing with MIDI, and using sequences
• produce a portfolio of compositions, arrangements, and recordings representing a variety of styles and compositional situations
Prerequisites
• Basic Music Theory
• Instrumental/Vocal Performing Experience
• Music Reading Skills
Portfolio Guidelines
Acceptance into the Music and Computer Technology program will be based upon audition. During the spring audition, applicants will be asked to demonstrate the following:
• Ability to read musical notation in more than one clef
• Keyboard proficiency • Aural skills/Interval Identification
• A general knowledge of music theory, including but not limited to: Harmony, Rhythm, Instrumentation/Orchestration, Texture, and Form
Careers
The study of Music & Computer Technology may lead to these careers:
Composer
Entertainment Industry
Music Arranger
Music Management
Sound Crew Technician
Sound Recording
Music Therapy
Performer
Producer
Recording Engineer
Arranger
Professional Music Education
Colleges/Universities
The following schools have well-known programs in Music Composition and/or Technology:
Belmont University
Berklee College of Music
Indiana University
James Madison University
Middle Tennessee State University
Oberlin College
University of Miami
Univ. of Southern California
MORE ABOUT THIS CLASS
Instructor - Chris Johnston
Syllabus (Acrobat Reader needed to view)
Student Projects