Module: CMU5001-20 Song Production

Level: 5

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Pete Bernard

Module Tutor Contact Details: p.bernard@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:

This module builds upon Level 4 recording studio skills to explore the studio process as a means by which to shape and project performer identity. Contemporary music is increasingly defined by texture, rhythm, arrangement and sonics. Here you deploy a range of studio techniques to defining and presenting your act’s unique qualities. The ILO’s of this module recognises that within the production of an E.P. members of the ensemble will take on different roles. This might include technical ones such as engineering and mixing, but also performance relating to their respective musical role within the project. There is also recognition that the songwriting and arrangement of musical materials cannot be divorced form the production process.

2. Outline syllabus:

This is a project-based audio production module that begins by examining the relationship between song, singer and the audience. Pre-production song arrangements are explored ahead of the studio process, and projects are encouraged to research genre and discourse related to their project. Approaches to tempo and rhythm constructions, drum recording techniques and overdubbing are explored as students embellish their songcraft with studio arrangements. Vocal production, harmony, tracking and tuning vocals are each explored in relation to the project’s core character. Finally the art of mixing and then mastering your songs completes the production cycle. From song to master this module embraces the studio as an identity forming creative laboratory.

3. Teaching and learning activities

Teaching is a mixture of lectures and project workshops and tutorials. Lectures deliver conceptual overviews, and seminars explore song materials and analyse audio production examples. Studio tutorials fine-tune your project’s song arrangement and production stages towards completion. The completion of a commercially viable audio artefact transforms song material into intellectual property ready for ongoing marketing and launch processes.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: Portfolio of three mastered songs with referenced project production blog.

• % Weighting: 100%