MCCCD Program Description

Computer-Based Sound Synthesis

Course: MTC193

First Term: 2017 Fall

Lec + Lab 3.0 Credit(s) 4.0 Period(s) 3.7 Load
Subject Type: Occupational
Load Formula: S

Description: Principles of sound synthesis using computer-based methods. Synthesis methods include subtractive, additive, frequency modulation, sample and synthesis, and hybrid. Emphasis on synthesis techniques for use in electronic music

MCCCD Official Course Competencies
1. Explain the acoustic principles of sound. (I) 2. Explain the history of synthesis and the types used. (II) 3. Identify and demonstrate the types of computer-based synthesis methods. (III) 4. Describe the current techniques used with synthesis. (IV) 5. Describe the current applications of synthesis. (V) 6. Demonstrate the types of controllers used with synthesis. (VI) 7. Explain and demonstrate how synthesis is used in performance. (VII)
MCCCD Official Course Competencies must be coordinated with the content outline so that each major point in the outline serves one or more competencies. MCCCD faculty retains authority in determining the pedagogical approach, methodology, content sequencing, and assessment metrics for student work. Please see individual course syllabi for additional information, including specific course requirements.

MCCCD Official Course Outline
I. Basic Principles of Acoustic Waveforms A. Frequency B. Amplitude C. Velocity D. Shape E. Phase F. Harmonic II. Historical Methods of Synthesis A. Tape techniques B. Analog synthesis C. Digital synthesis (hardware-based) D. Digital synthesis (software-based) III. Synthesis Methods A. Subtractive B. Additive C. Frequency modulation D. Sample and synthesis E. Hybrid IV. Using Synthesis A. Arranging B. Stacking C. Doubling D. Layering E. Hocketing F. Multi-timbrality and polyphony V. Application of Synthesis A. Electronic music B. Film and other commercial uses C. Sound effects VI. Controllers A. MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) keyboard controllers B. Wheels and other hand-operated controllers C. Foot controllers D. Wind controllers VII. Performance A. Sequencers B. Live synthesis

MCCCD Governing Board Approval Date: 4/25/2017

All information published is subject to change without notice. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information presented, but based on the dynamic nature of the curricular process, course and program information is subject to change in order to reflect the most current information available.