Studio Composition (Independent Study)

Department of Music, School of Languages, Cultures, Art History and Music

College of Arts and Law

Details

Code 22644

Level of study Third/Final year

Credit value 20

Semester Full Term

Module description

The module seeks to build up the skills acquired in the Studio Composition modules offered at Levels C and I, i.e. the composition of original electroacoustic music via the medium of computer-based technology. Semester 1: Seminars to ensure that students are thoroughly familiar with all the available Studio resources. Starting from a group recording session to gather source sound material, the course builds on and consolidates techniques learned in course Studio Composition LI, focusing on digital sound editing, processing and mixing. More advanced and elaborate signal processing software than that used in LI is also introduced. Guided listening and reading, along with discussion of compositional and aesthetic issues, will inform the learning process. This is aided by weekly listening sessions throughout the year, curated by staff and postgraduate composers, using the Elgar Room MiniBEAST (Birmingham ElectroAcoustic Sount Theatre) system. Attendance at these sessions is a requirement for Independent Study students, unless there are timetable clashes with other modules. Towards the end of Semester 1, classes will be replaced by individual tutorials to establish the specific materials for each student¿s piece and the best methods of developing that material for the compositional aims of each person. In Semester 2, attention shifts almost completely to the composition of individual pieces by each student. To support this, fortnightly individual tutorials with the class tutor focus on the specific material and compositional ideas of each person.