MUSIC  RECORDING  PROGRAM

Diploma Course Requirements:

Spring Offerings: COM 110 / CIS 106 / EET120

Fall Offerings: COM 220 / COM 228 / COM 221

The Diploma Program "RECORDING ENGINEER" provides the student with basic and advanced concepts in audio multi-track music recording. The music entertainment industry is one of the largest and fastest growing fields in the country. This program prepares the student with the theoretical and technical knowledge to pursue such occupations as audio engineer, recording technician, sound reinforcement and audio producer. Record companies, concert promoters, recording studios and music performance venues all employ people with audio engineer training.

The program begins with Basic Music Recording (COM 110). The course provides the student with an overall view of the tools and theories involved in the music recording industry. Its purpose is to familiarize the student with the fundamental concepts of analog and digital recording. In the hands-on lab setting for this 5-credit course, emphasis will be placed on familiarization with the array of equipment necessary to perform stereo and multi-track recording, as well as the operation of a basic project studio.

Also in the first semester of this one-year Diploma Program, the student will gain basic knowledge of computers and electronics that will carry over into every aspect of future learning experiences in this program. Computers in Industry (COS 106) provides a basic understanding of computer programming as it relates directly to industry applications. Since nearly all audio editing performed in the music industry today is non-linear (computer based), it is essential that the student have a firm grasp of the principles involved. In addition EET 120 (Electrical Theory) will afford the student a working knowledge of the basic elements of electrical circuits, magnetism, electronic components and operation of electrical equipment. These skills are essential since the tools utilized by the recording engineer are directly related to this knowledge.

In the second semester of this program, advanced theory and practice play a major role. Advanced Music Recording (COM 220) allows the student to demonstrate the technical skills developed in COM 110 (Basic Music Recording). A more detailed approach to equipment capabilities, multi-track recording skills and mastery of contemporary recording tools will be emphasized. Signal processing, analog and digital recording, editing and advanced mixing are examined in-depth. The lab component Music Recording Workshop (COM 228) consists of 6 credit hours of intensive work in a fully functional studio setting. This atmosphere will afford the student the opportunity to put their newly formed skills to the test by working with musicians in an actual recording session. A final presentation, based on a semester project will be required to demonstrate the student’s development and expertise.

The final course in semester two of the program is Music Management (COM 221). This will be an examination of the current requirements and business trends used both to record music and market product in the industry. The perspective of the artist, as well as the needs of the recording industry will be examined. Through lecture and research, students will examine cost ratio, market analysis, job responsibilities, and employment opportunities as producer, engineer and artist.

This Diploma Program is a very logical progression of knowledge, practice and experience. As the student’s skills grow, the course material challenges their competencies to produce an industry professional capable of handling any situation.