Module 2 of 6: Music Technology Live

Summary

The purpose of this module is to introduce you to or expand your knowledge of music technology applications as used in live performance situations by dance, urban, rock or alternative acts. Students are shown how to use music technology live and will research this area in depth. You can get creative with various software and hardware tools and analyse how to create live performances which will resonate with your audience. You will get to study your favourite live acts and find out how they do it. And you put on a live performance which reflects this knowledge!

Content

The Story of Dance Music
Historical context: how dance developed

Different music styles: house, hip hop, grime and your favourite acts

The superstar DJ

Development of dance music. i.e. the use of sequencers, loops, samples, dsp.

History of the Sampler

Audio examples of early work

Demonstration of a hardware sampler

How to load samples and assign to keys etc

Software samplers, compare software/hardware

History of the Synthesiser

Audio examples of early work, exploring patches

Types of synthesisers, landmarks such as DX7 Mini Moog

Wave forms/filters, software synthesisers

Compose short piece using software synthesis

Electronic Instruments

Early instruments like Theramin

Analyse examples of Electronica (e.g. Chemical Bros) performance and composition methods Structure of the pieces,

Type of sounds used, range of FX used

Electronic Performance

Electronic, computer-generated music in a live context

Using sequencers and drum machines live

PAs, club gigs

Electro-Acoustic Performance

Electro-acoustic music in performance

Combining acoustic guitars, strings etc with beats

Feedback do's and dont's

Learn About Live Sound

Laptops, MIDI/Audio interfaces, Logic, Ableton Live

MIDI triggers, synthesizers, samplers

Digital/MIDI, Cabling, MIDI instruments

Samplers, Filters, VST or AU/hardware synths

Technically Live

Find your way round the mixing desk

Learn to use a range of microphones/techniques

Incorporating record decks

How to hook up and use a PA system, health and safety issues

Live Sound Performance!

Put on a live show at a venue like 93 Feet East or The Barfly

Incorporate a range of music technology applications live

Putting on a safe and creative performance

Combining music technology with your chosen art form in performance