MCCCD Program Description

Electronic Music I

Course: MUC191

First Term: 2023 Fall

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

Description: An introduction to creating music with computers, utilizing the Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) protocol, synthesizers, digital audio software/hardware, and MIDI controllers.

MCCCD Official Course Competencies
1. Describe the history and aesthetics of electronic music. (I) 2. Define the Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) specification, its functions, and its application in music composition. (I) 3. Demonstrate basic synthesis and digital audio theory. (I) 4. Demonstrate basic computer usage and proper file management. (II) 5. Demonstrate ability to operate digital audio workstation (DAW) software for sequencing and MIDI hardware controllers. (II) 6. Demonstrate the basics of music theory. (III) 7. Demonstrate the basic principles of acoustics and psychoacoustics. (III) 8. Apply basic principles of composition and arranging. (IV) 9. Produce projects that utilize principles of electronic music. (IV)
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. Introduction to electronic music A. Overview of the history of electronic music B. Development of analog and digital synthesis C. Basics of synthesis theory D. Basics of digital audio theory and signal processing II. Use of electronic music hardware and software A. Computers and peripheral equipment specifications B. Synthesizers C. Electronic music software 1. General operating functions 2. Basic digital audio recording techniques 3. Editing files 4. Creating and saving files 5. Editing MIDI performance data and audio D. Introduction to MIDI III. Music theory and acoustics A. Basics of music theory 1. Rhythmic notation 2. Time signatures 3. Tempo B. Basics of acoustics 1. Frequency 2. Amplitude 3. Timbre 4. Envelope IV. Music production A. Music composition B. Recording, editing, mixing, bouncing, and exporting final compositions C. Create compositions for presentation/performance

MCCCD Governing Board Approval Date: December 13, 2022

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.