Music Technology

PA8200Z Music Technology 

Grade 9, 10, 11, and 12

Full Year

This course is required before a student may take any other course in music technology (waived for students with a year or more experience in one of our performing ensemble classes). Students will be introduced to the study of music technology, the equipment, and production software offered in our lab (including Soundtrap, Reaper, Maschine, Band-in-a-Box, iZotope). Instrument and equipment care will be included. Students will complete ‘mini’ projects in each program and work together to produce a public concert each term.

This course aligns with Massachusetts arts framework, may be taken multiple times and fulfills the fine arts graduation requirement and/or the 5 credit electives Mass Core Curriculum framework.

PA8206Z Music Production - Honors

Grade 9, 10, 11, and 12

Full Year

Prerequisite: Music Technology (waived for students with a year or more experience in one of our performing ensemble classes)

Create your own music, songs, and sound design for your projects! The Music Production program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the music creation process, from recording and arranging to mixing and producing. The curriculum is designed to equip students with the technical skills, creative insight, and industry knowledge necessary to excel in various music production careers. Through hands-on training and practical coursework, students will learn the essential techniques and technologies required for professional music production. Students present individual and team creative projects in concert each term. Students can customize their learning track by choosing a specialization area to earn certification for each semester.  Upon completing the program, students will be prepared for a wide range of roles in the music production industry, equipped with the technical and creative skills to thrive in an evolving digital landscape.

Focus Areas to include:

Songwriting: Learn the art and craft of writing original songs, from lyric composition to melody development, harmonic progressions, and song structure.

Film Scoring: Explore the creative process behind composing music for film, television, and other visual media, with an emphasis on storytelling through music.

Sound Design: Study the creation and manipulation of sound effects and sonic elements used in music production, film, and gaming.

Studio Musicianship: Gain practical experience as a studio musician, learning the skills necessary to perform and record in professional studio environments.

Live Sound Engineering: Understand the principles of live sound, including audio system setup, mixing for live performances, monitor mixes, and troubleshooting sound issues in real-time. Required to run sound for Auditorium events.

This course aligns with Massachusetts arts framework, may be taken multiple times and fulfills the fine arts graduation requirement and/or the 5 credit electives Massachusetts Core Curriculum framework.

PA1252Z Advanced Music Production - Honors Advanced level of Music Production Course

Grade 10, 11, and 12

Full Year

Advanced topics in recording, such as multi-track recording, instrumental and vocal layering, editing, and mixing techniques. Introduction to the use of our Dante system and Dante certification level 1 and above. 

This course aligns with Massachusetts arts framework, may be taken multiple times and fulfills the fine arts graduation requirement and/or the 5 credit electives Massachusetts Core Curriculum framework. Prerequisite: Music Production 

PA9007Z Digital Music Portfolio I - Honors

Grade 11 and 12

Full Year

For those who might major or minor in music performance or production at the college level or seek business internships. Build your own digital music portfolios including audition tapes, and contest entries. Final portfolio is an important element in starting a musical career and suitable for college admissions, applications and interviews.

PA9008Z Digital Music Portfolio II - Honors

Grade 12

Full Year

For those who might major or minor in music performance or production at the college level or seek business internships. Build your own digital music portfolios including audition tapes, and contest entries. Final portfolio is an important element in starting a musical career and suitable for college admissions, applications and interviews.

PA9008Z Digital Music Portfolio II - Honors

Grade 12

Full Year

For those who might major or minor in music performance or production at the college level or seek business internships. Build your own digital music portfolios including audition tapes, and contest entries. Final portfolio is an important element in starting a musical career and suitable for college admissions, applications and interviews.