Overview
In this unit, you will be introduced to the fundamental principles of electronic music production including synthesis, sampling, MIDI sequencing and signal processing and apply these to the composition of an original piece of electronic music. You will explore genre-specific music production and composition techniques in the analysis of a chosen genre of electronic music. You will use these findings to inform the planning stage of your original composition project. Once you define the scope of your composition project, you will pitch this to your peers. Your project planning will culminate in the creation of an original piece of electronic music that adheres to the conventions of your chosen genre.
Details
Pre-requisites or Co-requisites
Pre-requisite: Completion of 36 credit points in CG51. Students outside of CG51 may seek approval from the CG51 Head of Course to undertake this unit.
Important note: Students enrolled in a subsequent unit who failed their pre-requisite unit, should drop the subsequent unit before the census date or within 10 working days of Fail grade notification. Students who do not drop the unit in this timeframe cannot later drop the unit without academic and financial liability. See details in the Assessment Policy and Procedure (Higher Education Coursework).
Offerings For Term 2 - 2024
Attendance Requirements
All on-campus students are expected to attend scheduled classes – in some units, these classes are identified as a mandatory (pass/fail) component and attendance is compulsory. International students, on a student visa, must maintain a full time study load and meet both attendance and academic progress requirements in each study period (satisfactory attendance for International students is defined as maintaining at least an 80% attendance record).
Recommended Student Time Commitment
Each 6-credit Undergraduate unit at CQUniversity requires an overall time commitment of an average of 12.5 hours of study per week, making a total of 150 hours for the unit.
Class Timetable
Assessment Overview
Assessment Grading
This is a graded unit: your overall grade will be calculated from the marks or grades for each assessment task, based on the relative weightings shown in the table above. You must obtain an overall mark for the unit of at least 50%, or an overall grade of ‘pass’ in order to pass the unit. If any ‘pass/fail’ tasks are shown in the table above they must also be completed successfully (‘pass’ grade). You must also meet any minimum mark requirements specified for a particular assessment task, as detailed in the ‘assessment task’ section (note that in some instances, the minimum mark for a task may be greater than 50%). Consult the University’s Grades and Results Policy for more details of interim results and final grades.
All University policies are available on the CQUniversity Policy site.
You may wish to view these policies:
- Grades and Results Policy
- Assessment Policy and Procedure (Higher Education Coursework)
- Review of Grade Procedure
- Student Academic Integrity Policy and Procedure
- Monitoring Academic Progress (MAP) Policy and Procedure – Domestic Students
- Monitoring Academic Progress (MAP) Policy and Procedure – International Students
- Student Refund and Credit Balance Policy and Procedure
- Student Feedback – Compliments and Complaints Policy and Procedure
- Information and Communications Technology Acceptable Use Policy and Procedure
This list is not an exhaustive list of all University policies. The full list of University policies are available on the CQUniversity Policy site.
Feedback, Recommendations and Responses
Every unit is reviewed for enhancement each year. At the most recent review, the following staff and student feedback items were identified and recommendations were made.
Feedback from Staff reflection and student feedback
Change the scope of the final assessment task
Consider broadening the scope of the final assessment task to encompass a diverse range of music styles. This modification aims to provide students with the opportunity to apply their acquired skills and knowledge across various musical genres, fostering a more comprehensive understanding of music technology's applicability and relevance.
- Analyse the compositional elements and production techniques of a chosen electronic music genre in a written essay
- Prepare and pitch a concept document and project plan for an original electronic music composition
- Apply music technology fundamentals and genre-specific composition techniques to the creation of an original electronic music composition.
Alignment of Assessment Tasks to Learning Outcomes
| Assessment Tasks | Learning Outcomes | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | 3 | |
| 1 - Written Assessment - 30% | |||
| 2 - Presentation - 20% | |||
| 3 - Portfolio - 50% | |||
Alignment of Graduate Attributes to Learning Outcomes
| Graduate Attributes | Learning Outcomes | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | 3 | |
| 1 - Communication | |||
| 2 - Problem Solving | |||
| 3 - Critical Thinking | |||
| 4 - Information Literacy | |||
| 5 - Team Work | |||
| 6 - Information Technology Competence | |||
| 7 - Cross Cultural Competence | |||
| 8 - Ethical practice | |||
| 9 - Social Innovation | |||
| 10 - Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultures | |||
Textbooks
There are no required textbooks.
IT Resources
- CQUniversity Student Email
- Internet
- Unit Website (Moodle)
- Ableton Live software
All submissions for this unit must use the referencing style: American Psychological Association 7th Edition (APA 7th edition)
For further information, see the Assessment Tasks.
p.preece@cqu.edu.au
Module/Topic
Introduction to MIDI and electronic music styles
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
A brief history of synthesisers
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
A brief history of drum machines
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Track deconstruction
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Sound design and programming - drums
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Sound design and programming - bass lines
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Sound design and programming - keys and chords
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Sound design and programming - melodic elements
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Sampling
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Arrangement, form and transitions
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Final mix and media preparation
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Project week
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
1 Written Assessment
In this assessment task, you will delve into the world of electronic music, examining its rich history and contemporary developments through a comparative analysis. This task will enable you to understand not only the technical aspects of electronic music production but also the cultural and social contexts that have shaped these works.
You are to complete a comparative analysis of two contrasting songs whose production aesthetics and instrumentation are primarily electronic. The excerpts for analysis will be provided on the assessment page located on the Moodle site. This analysis will require you to engage deeply with the following aspects:
1. Historical/Sociological Context of Each Genre:
- Historical Context: Explore the origins and development of the genre associated with each track. Discuss significant historical events, technological advancements, and key figures that have influenced the genre. Consider how the genre has evolved over time and the milestones that have marked its progression.
- Sociological Context: Examine the societal impact and cultural significance of each genre. Discuss how the music reflects the social, political, and economic conditions of its time. Consider the genre’s influence on various communities and its role in cultural movements or trends.
2. Technical Attributes of Each Track:
- Synthesisers and Samplers: Identify and describe the hardware or software synthesisers and samplers used in each track. Discuss the specific sounds and textures these tools create and how they contribute to the overall aesthetic of the music. Consider the innovation and technological advancements represented by these tools.
- Production Techniques: Analyse the production techniques employed in each track. Discuss the use of effects, layering, and mixing, and how these techniques enhance the listening experience. Consider how the production choices align with the genre's characteristics and conventions.
3. Musical Elements of Each Track:
- Instrumentation: Detail the instruments and sounds used in each track. Discuss how electronic elements are integrated with traditional instruments (if applicable) and the roles each element plays in the composition.
- Form: Analyze the song structure of each track, considering elements like verse, chorus, bridge, and any non-traditional structures. Discuss how the form contributes to the track’s impact and how it reflects the genre’s norms.
- Use of Effects: Examine the use of audio effects such as reverb, delay, modulation, and distortion. Discuss how these effects shape the sound and texture of the track and enhance its emotional or atmospheric qualities.
Submission Requirements
Your analysis should be structured clearly and coherently, with each section addressing the specific points outlined above. Use examples from the tracks to support your discussion and provide detailed explanations of your observations. Your final submission should be no more than 1500 words in length and use APA referencing.
Use of Generative Artificial Intelligence agents (Gen AI)
Within this assessment, the use of Gen AI agents is as follows:
- Gen AI content is used to generate ideas and general structures.
- Gen AI can be used for content editing.
Week 5 Friday (9 Aug 2024) 11:45 pm AEST
Week 6 Friday (23 Aug 2024)
Accurate analysis of technical attributes of the two tracks - 20%
Accurate analysis of musical elements of the two excerpts - 20%
Appropriate discussion of the historical/sociological context of the genre - 10%
Clarity and organisation of the analysis, including the structure of the discussion, coherence of arguments, and logical flow of ideas - 20%
Use of Examples to support analysis - 10%
Writing style and presentation - 10%
Engagement with relevant sources (Gen AI inclusive) - 10%
- Analyse the compositional elements and production techniques of a chosen electronic music genre in a written essay
2 Presentation
In this task, you will create a video pitch of no more than 5 minutes to present your idea for a new electronic music composition. Pitching is a crucial skill in the creative industries, used to share your ideas with clients, collaborators, and potential funders. This assessment will help you develop these skills and enhance your ability to articulate and present your creative concepts effectively.
Your pitch should include the following components:
Introduction:
- Briefly introduce yourself and the genre you have chosen for your new composition.
- Provide a clear and concise overview of your idea.
Genre Identification and Traits:
- Identify the genre you are working in.
- Discuss the key traits and characteristics of the genre, including typical instrumentation, tempo, rhythm patterns, sound design, and production techniques.
- Use audio examples to illustrate these traits. These can be excerpts from existing tracks within the genre that inspire your composition.
Approach to Composition:
- Explain your creative approach and the steps you plan to take in the production of your new track.
- Discuss any specific tools, software, or hardware you will use.
- Highlight any unique or innovative elements you intend to incorporate into your composition.
Demonstration:
- Present an 8-bar loop that you have created, showcasing the drums, bass, and chords of your new track.
- Discuss how this loop aligns with the genre traits you identified and how it sets the foundation for the rest of your composition.
Conclusion:
- Summarise your pitch, reiterating the key points of your idea and approach.
Use of Generative Artificial Intelligence agents (Gen AI)
Within this assessment, the use of Gen AI agents is as follows:
- Gen AI content is used to generate ideas and general structures.
- Gen AI can be used for content editing.
Week 8 Friday (6 Sept 2024) 11:45 pm AEST
Week 10 Friday (20 Sept 2024)
Clear and insightful overview of music styles - 20%
Clarity and Organisation - 20%
Originality and Innovation - 20%
Competent use of project presentation software - 10%
Demonstration of 8-Bar Loop - 40%
- Prepare and pitch a concept document and project plan for an original electronic music composition
3 Portfolio
This final assessment task allows you to synthesise everything you have learned throughout the course by creating a complete electronic music composition. Building on the 8-bar loop you developed for your project pitch, you will expand your idea into a full-length track that showcases your understanding of genre production traits, sound design, MIDI sequencing, and song structure.
In the music industry, the ability to create polished and compelling compositions is essential. This task will help you develop and refine these skills, preparing you for future projects and professional opportunities. By demonstrating originality and creativity, you will also learn to infuse your unique artistic voice into your work, making your music stand out in a crowded field.
Through this task, you will gain hands-on experience with Ableton Live software, enhancing your technical proficiency and production capabilities. You will also practice critical listening and analytical skills as you ensure your track adheres to the conventions of your chosen genre while incorporating innovative elements.
Your composition must include the following components:
Genre Production Traits:
- Demonstrate an understanding of the chosen genre by incorporating its key production traits.
- Use appropriate sound design, instrumentation, and production techniques that are characteristic of the genre.
Software Instruments:
- Choose presets or create your own software instruments that fit within your chosen genre.
- Ensure the instruments are well-crafted and fit seamlessly into the overall composition.
MIDI Patterns:
- Sequence MIDI patterns that are typical of the genre.
- Ensure the patterns are rhythmically and melodically coherent and contribute to the genre's style.
Originality:
- Show originality in your composition, incorporating unique elements and creative ideas.
- Strive to make your track stand out while still adhering to the genre’s conventions.
Transition Elements:
- Use transition elements such as risers, downlifters, fills, and effects to create smooth transitions between sections.
- Ensure the transitions enhance the flow and dynamics of the track.
Song Form:
- Create a clear and effective song form, including sections such as intro, verse, chorus, bridge, and outro.
- Ensure the form provides a coherent structure to your composition and maintains listener interest.
Submission Requirements:
- Your track should be at least 3 minutes long and no longer than 10 minutes.
- Export your final composition as a high-quality audio file (48KHz, 32 Bit).
- Submit your Ableton Live Project according to Moodle Guidelines
- Include a brief written explanation (300-500 words) describing your creative process, the genre traits you incorporated, and any unique elements or techniques you used - upload this to Moodle.
Use of Generative Artificial Intelligence agents (Gen AI)
Within this assessment, the use of Gen AI agents is as follows:
- Gen AI may only be used as specified in the assignment instructions in Moodle.
Review/Exam Week Friday (11 Oct 2024) 11:45 pm AEST
Exam Week Friday (18 Oct 2024)
Composition demonstrates genre-specific production techniques - 15%
Composition meets submission requirements - 15%
Sound design is implemented effectively - 15%
MIDI sequencing is implemented effectively - 15%
Originality and Creativity - 10%
Use of Transition Elements - 10%
Song Form and Structure - 10%
Session layout and project handling - 10%
- Apply music technology fundamentals and genre-specific composition techniques to the creation of an original electronic music composition.
As a CQUniversity student you are expected to act honestly in all aspects of your academic work.
Any assessable work undertaken or submitted for review or assessment must be your own work. Assessable work is any type of work you do to meet the assessment requirements in the unit, including draft work submitted for review and feedback and final work to be assessed.
When you use the ideas, words or data of others in your assessment, you must thoroughly and clearly acknowledge the source of this information by using the correct referencing style for your unit. Using others’ work without proper acknowledgement may be considered a form of intellectual dishonesty.
Participating honestly, respectfully, responsibly, and fairly in your university study ensures the CQUniversity qualification you earn will be valued as a true indication of your individual academic achievement and will continue to receive the respect and recognition it deserves.
As a student, you are responsible for reading and following CQUniversity’s policies, including the Student Academic Integrity Policy and Procedure. This policy sets out CQUniversity’s expectations of you to act with integrity, examples of academic integrity breaches to avoid, the processes used to address alleged breaches of academic integrity, and potential penalties.
What is a breach of academic integrity?
A breach of academic integrity includes but is not limited to plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion, cheating, contract cheating, and academic misconduct. The Student Academic Integrity Policy and Procedure defines what these terms mean and gives examples.
Why is academic integrity important?
A breach of academic integrity may result in one or more penalties, including suspension or even expulsion from the University. It can also have negative implications for student visas and future enrolment at CQUniversity or elsewhere. Students who engage in contract cheating also risk being blackmailed by contract cheating services.
Where can I get assistance?
For academic advice and guidance, the Academic Learning Centre (ALC) can support you in becoming confident in completing assessments with integrity and of high standard.
What can you do to act with integrity?
