Technology in Music

Catalog description

Survey of how musical information is stored and processed in computer systems. MUSIC 455 Technology in Music (3)(BA) This course meets the Bachelor of Arts degree requirements. This course provides a survey of how musical information is stored and transmitted in digital devices. It will be divided into three sections.Weeks 1 and 2 are an introduction to acoustical principles such as the nature of sound transmission and measurements of frequency, sound power level, phase, timbre, and localization. Computer basics will also be covered, with topics to include binary number representation and basic computer operation.Weeks 3 through 8 cover the MIDI transmission protocol that enables musical information to be stored and transmitted efficiently. Topics include the nature of the MIDI data structure, the types of messages that may be passed, and the suitability of MIDI for expressive performance. MIDI software is discussed, including notation software, editor/librarian software, and sequencers. The bulk of the course's project component involves working with sequencing programs. Students are also exposed to using MIDI on the web, downloading files and importing them into various applications.Weeks 9 through 15 cover digital audio so that students may understand how instruments capable of understanding MIDI messages are able to translate the instructions into audio signals. Topics include sampling theory, digital vs. analog recording, filters, signal processing, and editing sound files. Projects involving digital audio also use a sequencing program that is able to combine MIDI and audio data.The students are expected to work independently to complete reading assignments according to the schedule outlined in the course syllabus. While due attention will be given to discussion of this material in class, the primary focus of class sessions will be hands-on application, to ensure that students master a set of skills on the computer.