Using Technology to Compose Music December 9, 2012

Music technology is increasingly becoming a fundamental part of music learning and practice. Today, students are savvy with technology in general but this course shows you how to harness specific technology skills in order to realise your full potential in the area of musical composition. These technology skills enable students to experiment with your musical ideas in a productive environment where you can receive instant feedback on your music via computer playback. Naturally, this should not be a replacement for traditional 'pencil and paper' methods but more a complementary tool offering a different workflow. GarageBand and Sibelius are a strong suite of composition programs that enable the student to focus not only on the notation of their scores but also the mix, balance and overall sound of the music. This course explores the potential of this computer software and specifically the two primary angles from which a musical composition could be approached: musical notation or improvisation. Students will learn the main features of the software so that the technology does not get in the way of creativity. The concepts covered are not specific to GarageBand and Sibelius alone, and are therefore useful in other music technology and composition contexts. This is a course that is designed for both elective music students who want to improve their compositional skills further as well as for those who would like to explore their potential in musical composition. The main areas of focus are: - Scoring in Sibelius using appropriate levels of detail in dynamics, tempo, articulation and expressive techniques. - Conventions in musical notation including preparation of scores and parts. - GarageBand music production techniques including automation, panning, effects and general mixing. - Creating scores after composing in GarageBand. - Composition workshops and modules including developing musical ideas, improvisation and aural skills. Outstanding compositions created in this course will be showcased by The Scots College Music Department. There will also be an award given to a student who demonstrates excellence in musical creativity. The selection criteria for this award will be provided at the beginning of the course. This course is suitable for students in Years 7 to 10 and Years 11 to 12. Details of this event may be subject to change. Please visit http://cce.sydney.edu.au/course/utcm for more information or to register.

Official Website: http://cce.sydney.edu.au/course/UTCM