“Music Technology is a broad term encompassing everything from microphones to saxophones. In fact, it’s difficult to find a musical activity that isn’t impacted by technology. In some circumstances, the technology is obvious, such as the use of a synthesizer performance by a pop musician or the use of microphones, mixers, and computers in the recording studio. However, even “acoustic” musicians use technology every day. They might use music notation software to compose or arrange a work, a portable recorder to capture a rehearsal for later analysis, or audio and video editing software to create demos in order to get gigs. Even a vocalist who doesn’t use a microphone sings in a concert hall, itself an exquisite (we hope!) piece of technology.”
In Music Technology, students will explore using computers, synthesizers, samplers, sequencers, and music notation software to produce music, primarily on their Google Chromebooks. Also included is a study of microphones, tape recorders, speaker systems, musical instrument pickups, vinyl records, compact discs, and MIDI and their roles as the basis for modern music production. Students will work collaboratively to create musical projects.
Music Technology 2 will provide students who have a passion for sound production and engineering to continue to develop and learn all about the lessons learned in Music Technology 1. In order to take this class, students will need to have taken Music Technology 1 as a 7th grader, or will be assessed by the teacher and given permission to register for the class. Only 8th graders who are considered advanced proficient in sound production and music theory will be considered in order to be given permission to take the class without the Music Tech Level 1 prerequisite. They will learn about and use in more detail the DAWs we use at BMS and will have opportunities to meet and talk to professionals in the Music Technology field. This course will prepare them for Music Technology at BHS, which in turn develops their career readiness in college if they decide to pursue a career in music technology.