- Year of study: Two semesters, autumn and spring
- Final assessment: Exam portfolio
- Language of instruction: Norwegian or English.
- Prerequisites: MUSTEK21 or MUSTEK22.
Course description
The course builds on the courses MUSTEK21 Project Studio or MUSTEK22 Recording Studio, providing a practical and theoretical study of how multiple audio tracks/recordings and audio sources are combined to one or more channels (a mix).
Responsible department: Composition, Music Theory and Music Technology Department
Learning objectives
Upon completion of the course students are expected to
- have knowledge of the processes involved in mixing (summing) a complex audio landscape
- demonstrate understanding of the use of tone controls and dynamic effects
- possess good knowledge of the use of tools for correcting pitch/rhythm, etc., and when to use them
- understand the use of automation, faders/plugins, etc.
- have knowledge of the use of artificial spaces and delays (echo machines)
- understand the final phase in mixing (stabilization) and basic mastering
Overview
The course covers mixing techniques and refining recorded material until it becomes a finished CD master, vinyl master, or master for streaming. The focus is on sound engineering and shifting focus between individual instruments and the overall mix.
Students must work on developing their own methods for breaking down complex issues into more manageable ones. Topics include placement in artificial spaces, ethical considerations regarding altering recorded material (pitch correction and rhythmic quantization), as well as dynamic dilemmas in the loudness war.
Structure
The teaching primarily takes place in groups with 120 minutes of instruction per teaching week, over two semesters. The instruction may also be organized into seminars. Each student will receive two hours of individual guidance.
Course requirements
- Attendance in group sessions is mandatory
- Work Portfolio:
The student is required to compile a work portfolio, which should include:
- A finalized mix assignment focusing on track organization
- A mix assignment utilizing subgroups and VCA faders
- A mix emphasizing faders and panning
- A mix assignment incorporating faders, panning, EQ, and dynamics
- A mix task involving artificial reverbs and other effects
- A mix assignment involving rhythmic quantization and vocal pitch correction
- A major mix assignment comprising a minimum of 50 recorded tracks utilizing the techniques and methods covered in the course
Deadline: The deadline for submitting the work portfolio is April 15th in the second semester of the course. The portfolio is to be submitted to the course instructor.
Final assessment
All coursework requirements must be approved prior to obtaining a final assessment.
Assessment is based on learning objectives. The final assessment is given as a pass/fail mark based on the exam portfolio. Assessment is done by two internal examiners.
Exam portfolio
Based on the work portfolio, the student is required to compile an exam portfolio, which should include:
- A meticulously crafted mix of significant complexity with material determined by the course instructor.
- A meticulously crafted mix of a certain complexity with material chosen by the student.
- A reflection note explaining the mixing issues, approximately 1000 words in length.
New assessment
In the case of re-assessment, the same procedures apply.