Module: Music Technology 2

Latest Module Specifications

Current Academic Year 2025 - 2026

Module Title	Music Technology 2
Module Code	MPA1038 (ITS: MC223)
Faculty	Theology, Philosophy & Music	School	Humanities & Social Sciences
NFQ level	8	Credit Rating	5

Description

Building from MC124, this is a course designed to give learners the skills to work with live sound equipment and to use computers creatively to compose and develop music. Areas covered will include techniques for practical information on how to optimise on-stage sound, creativity in the use of Digital Audio Workstations, and an explanation of the most appropriate methods for making successful audio/video recordings of live performances

Learning Outcomes

1. Be able to record, mix and edit live concerts using standard audio hardware and software
2. Improve the presentation of their live performances
3. Improve the quality of their promotional and commercial recordings

*Type*	*Hours*	*Description*
Workload	Full time hours per semester
Lecture	24	Weekly, A one-hour group lecture-workshop
Independent Study	101	Practice techniques demonstrated by lecturer, and assignment work
Total Workload: 125

Section Breakdown
CRN	11156	Part of Term	Semester 1
Coursework	0%	Examination Weight	0%
Grade Scale	40PASS	Pass Both Elements	Y
Resit Category	RC1	Best Mark	N
Module Co-ordinator	Jenna Harris	Module Teacher	Shane Latimer

Type	Description	% of total	Assessment Date
Assessment Breakdown
Assignment	Submit Stage Plan/Channel List & demonstrate of knowledge of onstage/live sound techniques	20%	Week 6
Assignment	Demonstration of creative use of DAW and audio and MIDI	40%	Week 9
Assignment	Demonstration of knowledge of live audio/video recording techniques	40%	Sem 1 End

Reassessment Requirement Type
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories; RC1: A resit is available for both^* components of the module. RC2: No resit is available for a 100% coursework module. RC3: No resit is available for the coursework component where there is a coursework and summative examination element. ^* ‘Both’ is used in the context of the module having a coursework/summative examination split; where the module is 100% coursework, there will also be a resit of the assessment

Pre-requisite	None
Co-requisite	None
Compatibles	None
Incompatibles	None

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Live Sound:
- Developing a knowledge of optimum placement of instruments/amplification/microphones,

- Explore how to balance onstage sound

- Developing a knowledge of accurate cabling and use of the sound desk

Electronic production:
- Exploring possibilities of DAW, MIDI, and effects

- Developing creativity in use of DAW, Software/Hardware instruments and/or effects

- Learning about quality and balance of the audio mix

- Learning competent use of automation and effects

- Exploring the correct method for export & upload on to online audio platform

A/V Production:
- Working with Audio & Video recording of live performance

- Learning the correct synchronisation of audio and video

- Exploring how to achieve a good quality and balance of audio recording/mix.

- Learning the effective use of automation and effects

- Finding the best method for export & upload on to online video platforms

Indicative Reading List

Books:

Daniel M. Thompson: 0, Understanding Audio, Berklee Press, 360, 0634009591
Dan Moretti: 0, Producing and Mixing Contemporary Jazz, Berklee Press, 88, 0876390882

Articles:
None

Other Resources

Website: Cockos Incorporated, Reaper tutorials, http://www.reaper.fm/videos.php
Computer Software: Cockos Incorporated, Reaper,