Introduction to Sound Recording - MUS00135I

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Module will run

Occurrence	Teaching period
A	Semester 1 2024-25

Module aims

• To introduce the key aspects of acoustics, psychoacoustics and electroacoustics that are required for a comprehensive and transferable understanding of microphone techniques.
• To present approaches to microphone selection and placement for individual and stereo (coincident, near-coincident, spaced, baffled, binaural) capture
• To provide practical experience in the conception, planning, execution and post-production of recordings of acoustic instruments in real spaces.

Module learning outcomes

• Understand the acoustic, psychoacoustic and electroacoustic bases for contemporary microphone techniques.
• Be able to make a recording of an acoustic ensemble in an acoustically ‘live’ space.
• Be able to make judgements about the quality of such a recording and to make relevant adjustments to effect improvements.
• Be able to create, and work from, an edit map marked onto a musical score and be able to employ techniques and technologies to render inaudible edit points.
• Be able to describe, justify recording processes and reflect on outcomes in written work.

In their independent work, second-year students should demonstrate Learning Outcomes B1-6.

Module content

Please note: BA Music students wishing to take this module must have at least a B in GCSE Maths.

Indicative assessment

Task	% of module mark
Essay/coursework	60.0
Practical	40.0

Special assessment rules

None

Indicative reassessment

Task	% of module mark
Practical	60.0
Practical	40.0

Module feedback

Written feedback within four weeks of assessment date. See statement of feedback in the departmental handbook.

Indicative reading

Acoustics and Psychoacoustics – Howard and Angus, 2009.

Sound and Recording – McCormick and Rumsey, 2014.

The Sense of Hearing – Plack, 2014.

Microphones – Borwick, 1990.

Critical Listening Skills for Audio Professionals – Everest, 2005.