Modules

Core Module Information
Module title: Music Technologies: Making Music with Technology
SCQF level: 07:
SCQF credit value: 20.00
ECTS credit value: 10
Module code: MUS07142
Module leader: Andrew Samson
School School of Arts and Creative Industries
Subject area group: Screen and Performance
Prerequisites

There are no pre-requisites for this module to be added
Description of module content:

By studying this module you will develop an introductory level of competence in the use of industry standard music software to create, record and mix music. By exploring creative projects in two different Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs), you will develop transferable skills and knowledge that can be applied to other DAWs, including those taught, and those which are not taught, in subsequent modules on the programme. The module is highly practical and provides the opportunity to examine typical workflows, practice skills and techniques, and apply knowledge in order to build your confidence in the use of the DAWs covered in this module. Over the course of the module, you will gain an appreciation of topics including file management and workflow; MIDI sequencing, quantizing and editing; arrangement; region/clip and track based automation parameters; MIDI effects, Apple Loops and sampling; audio recording, editing and manipulation of MIDI and Audio; effects plugins and software instruments; efficient session management and music for picture, responses to which will form the basis for formative and summative assessments.
Learning Outcomes for module:

Upon completion of this module you will be able to

LO1: Operate Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) for music creation.

LO2: Demonstrate skills and techniques in capturing, editing and mixing multitrack recordings.

LO3: Demonstrate the application of a range of skills and techniques in sampling and the use of software instruments.
Full Details of Teaching and Assessment
2026/7, Trimester 1, In Person, Edinburgh Napier University
VIEW FULL DETAILS
Occurrence: 001
Primary mode of delivery: In Person
Location of delivery: MERCHISTON
Partner: Edinburgh Napier University
Member of staff responsible for delivering module: Dave Hook
Module Organiser:


Student Activity (Notional Equivalent Study Hours (NESH))
Mode of activityLearning & Teaching ActivityNESH (Study Hours)NESH Description
Face To Face Practical classes and workshops 12 Trimester 1: You will participate in practical classes and workshops to develop an introductory level of competence in the use of industry standard music software to create, record and mix music. By exploring creative projects in two different Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs), you will develop transferable skills and knowledge that can be applied to other DAWs, including those taught, and those which are not taught, in subsequent modules on the programme. Reasonable adjustments will be embedded into teaching and learning practice for all students wherever possible. This may include providing notes and learning materials in advance of class, and allowing additional time for in-class tests where required to support access, inclusion, and individual learning needs.
Face To Face Practical classes and workshops 8 You will participate in student led, tutor supported collaborative practical sessions to explore and consolidate content covered across both trimesters of the module.
Online Guided independent study 168 You will actively participate in Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) activities and tasks on Moodle to support your learning and develop your practical application of key concepts.
Face To Face Practical classes and workshops 12 Trimester 2: You will participate in practical classes and workshops to develop an introductory level of competence in the use of industry standard music software to create, record and mix music. By exploring creative projects in two different Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs), you will develop transferable skills and knowledge that can be applied to other DAWs, including those taught, and those which are not taught, in subsequent modules on the programme. Reasonable adjustments will be embedded into teaching and learning practice for all students wherever possible. This may include providing notes and learning materials in advance of class, and allowing additional time for in-class tests where required to support access, inclusion, and individual learning needs.
Total Study Hours200
Expected Total Study Hours for Module200


Assessment
Type of Assessment Weighting % LOs covered Week due Length in Hours/Words Description
Class Test 50 1~2~3 Exam Period HOURS= 45mins You will sit an online exam relating to the content covered and the practical work undertaken over the course of the first trimester. The exam is designed to assess your understanding of key concepts, your ability to apply these in practice, and your engagement with the learning activities completed during the trimester. Reasonable adjustments have been embedded into the assessment process, including the provision of additional time where required, to support accessibility and individual learning needs.
Project - Practical 50 1~2~3 Exam Period HOURS= 3mins Tri 2: You will produce a music video to accompany a three-minute composition created using the music software studied in class. The work must be produced in Apple Logic Pro and should demonstrate your developing technical, creative, and production skills. Your music and video should demonstrate some form of synchronisation, showing consideration of the relationship between audio and visual elements. You may create your video using accessible or available resources, such as a phone camera, screen-recorded visuals, animation, copyright-compliant found footage, or abstract visuals, rather than filming a full live-action video.
Component 1 subtotal: 50
Component 2 subtotal: 50
Module subtotal: 100

Indicative References and Reading List - URL:
Music Technologies: Making Music with Technology
 

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