BACHELOR OF MUSIC (AUDIO) AUSTRALIAN INSTITUTE OF MUSIC (AIM) - COURSE STRUCTURE

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1 BACHELOR OF MUSIC (AUDIO) AUSTRALIAN INSTITUTE OF MUSIC (AIM) - COURSE STRUCTURE MAJOR STUDY FOUNDATION STAGES (TRI 1-2) INDUSTRY STAGES (TRI 3-6) Major Study 1 (Mixing) A1AM1 Technology 1 Major Study 2 (Recording) A1AM2 Technology 2 Choose One Pathway Pro Studio A1AM3 Live Production A1AM3 Studio A1AM3 Media Post Production A1AM3 Technology 3 Pro Studio A1AM4 Live Production A1AM4 Studio A1AM4 Media Post Production A1AM4 Technology 4 Pro Studio A1AM5 Live Production A1AM5 Studio A1AM5 Media Post Production A1AM5 Technology 5 Pro Studio A1AM6 Live Production A1AM6 Studio A1AM6 Media Post Production A1AM6 Technology 6 Technology 1 Technology 2 Technology 3 Technology 4 Technology 5 Technology 6 Music Materials & Techniques 1 Foundations of Popular Contemporary Music Music Materials & Techniques 2 Foundations of Western Art Music Selection of Critical Studies Selection of Critical Studies Selection of Critical Studies Aural 3 Aural 4 Aural 5 or Elective Selection of Critical Studies Aural 6 or Elective Ensemble 1 Ensemble 2 Ensemble 3 Ensemble 4 Ensemble 5 Ensemble 6 Music Production 1 Foundation Skills of the Producer Music Production 2 Role of the Producer Survey of the Arts & Entertainment Industry Elective Elective Intro to An Intro to Popular Tertiary Studies Culture Elective Elective Elective & the Arts Elective Elective HIGHER EDUCATION PROVIDER 4343 ABN CRICOS CODE 00665C. Correct as at 25 November Subject to change

2 STAGE 1: FOUNDATION STAGE (TRIMESTER 1) AUDIO MAJOR STUDY 1 (A1AM1) Focuses on the function of the primary pieces of equipment found in a studio and the common terms used. They will also have the opportunity to observe a recording session first hand. Students learn basic signal flow and will be able to route a variety of audio signals through the recording chain. Students perform a simple mix to pre-recorded material using volume, pan and mute functions, and become familiar with general mixing concepts. During the latter part of the unit, EQ and effects processing are introduced to further enhance the students mixing techniques. A great portion of this unit is conducted in a recording studio, as students gain valuable practical experience becoming familiar with the general workings of the console, recorder, patchbays and effects processors. AUDIO TECHNOLOGY 1 (A1AT1) This unit introduces the student to the principles of sound, how it is created, and how sound is perceived by the ear. Fundamental audio terms are explained that are the foundation for all subsequent units in audio study. DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY 1 (A1DT1) Introduces students to the functional design and basic operation of digital audio workstations (DAWs), the standard software environment for audio and music production. Standard digital resource management techniques are introduced using simple music production projects. Listening skills are used to identify and solve simple problems using digital audio material. Fundamental data manipulation skills are introduced involving the editing, sound shaping, and mixing of audio and MIDI material, with an emphasis on standard workflow principles. MUSIC MATERIALS & TECHNIQUES 1 (G1MM1) The content of this unit covers the foundation principles of music, its parameters and the articulation of these ideas illustrated with musical examples. Auralia is ear-training software available for all students in the library for private practice. All weekly tasks are designed to assist you in your learning and while not part of the formal assessment of the unit should be completed as required. It is expected that all students will bring manuscript to aural classes and notebooks to the lecture and tutorials. FOUNDATIONS OF CONTEMPORARY POPULAR MUSIC (G1FP1) Foundations of Popular Contemporary Music is an overview of Western popular music (jazz, music theatre, popular) from the late nineteenth century to the present day, including a selected study of the sociological and political events that influenced popular music trends during the twentieth century. Particular attention is given to the study and analysis of primary source materials in the form of musical analysis of the musical forms relevant to this period. This unit also provides students with a comprehensive grounding for further theoretical study, through the revision of the basic principles and an introduction to the main elements of Contemporary Popular Music. (P1EN1) The first of 6 levels. Ensemble provides opportunity for students to begin to explore and develop their skills within a group. Consistent attendance is important as each member is of critical importance to the success of the ensemble. Music Production 1- Foundation Skills of the Producer (A2TS1) This unit, the first of two foundation units in Music Production, commences with an overview of the roles, skills and resources required to convert ideas into sound (Music Production). The broad range of skills required by the Music Producer emerges. The significance of these skills to the final outcome is identified and explained: managing creative, technical and personnel resources; developing style-independent concepts & language for critical thinking & listening; communicating in clear and concise verbal and written language; managing schedules, budgets and allocating resources. Concepts, language and strategies for musical analysis and critical listening are presented as key skills for the Music Producer. This is emphasised in a detailed investigation of the-pre-production, recording and mixing stages using case studies of several real-world projects and in-class demonstrations and listening examples. Introduction to TERTIARY STUDIES (G1TM1) Please see your Head of Department for more information about this unit.

3 STAGE 2: FOUNDATION STAGE (TRIMESTER 2) AUDIO MAJOR STUDY 2 (A1AM2) Focuses on creating an actual production, by recording, overdubbing and mixing a solo performer. The unit focuses on the planning and execution process, as well as technical aspects. The student will be able to effectively and efficiently undertake an audio production, incorporating such elements as communication skills, time management and resource management. Technical aspects such as microphone choice and placement, headphone monitoring, mixing console signal flow, and multitrack operation are also examined. AUDIO TECHNOLOGY 2 (A1AT2) Building on the foundation of Unit 1, this unit explores the principles of both analogue and digital recording. There is discussion on the merits of each format. Students perform simple calculations based on digital recording systems with regards to sample rate and resolution, and discuss the common digital audio formats. Students also learn about the different microphone types, and discuss the operating principles of dynamic, condenser and valve microphones. Students learn the general applications type of microphones. DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY 2 (A1DT2) The second of six units in Technology as part of the Bachelor of Music () program. The unit is designed as a foundation unit in Workstation (DAW) technology and follows on from concepts introduced in Technology 1. MUSIC MATERIALS & TECHNIQUES 2 (G1MM2) This unit is offered as the second of two foundation units, designed to provide further development in the student s musicianship skills. This course is intended to enhance academic understanding and aural perception of the elements of music in a range of different musical idioms enabling students to appreciate music as an aural art and to discover musical sounds for themselves. This component of the course provides aural and theoretical development to enhance the student s ability to improve their skills in their chosen major study. FOUNDATIONS OF WESTERN ART MUSIC (G1WA1) Foundations of Western Art Music is an overview of traditional western music from the early Baroque period (ca 1600) to the present day, including a selected study of the musical styles of the late twentieth century. Particular attention is given to the study and analysis of primary source materials in the form of musical analysis of the musical forms relevant to each period. Further fundamental theoretical music concepts are explored in this unit to further develop a knowledge and understanding of the materials of music through the study and use of music writing skills derived from the western art-music tradition. (P1EN2) This unit is the second of 6 degree level ensemble and provides an opportunity for students to begin to explore and develop their skills within a group. Consistent attendance is important as each member is of critical importance to the success of the ensemble. Music Production 2 - Producer as director (A2TS2) This unit focuses on the importance of musical analysis for the Producer directing musicians in the studio. In the studio a Producer must analyse a performance, relate it to the overall musical objective, and immediately communicate appropriate information and requests to others present (performers, engineers, clients). This communication is driven by a clear understanding of all the elements of the music production process along side expert listening skills. Students develop written and verbal strategies for analysing the composition, performance, production and perception of music so as to develop independent critical thinking, a personal aesthetic and expert written and verbal communication skills. Introduction to Popular Culture & the Arts (G1PA1) The arts and popular culture have been intimately intertwined throughout the twentieth century growing into a billion dollar entertainment industry. This unit draws upon historical methods and contemporary cultural theory to examine critically the relationship of the arts and popular culture in the twentieth century up to the present.

4 STAGE 3-6: AUDIO MAJOR STUDY PATHWAYS Major Study (A1AM3, A1AM4, A1AM5, A1AM6) 4 PATHWAYS From Trimester 3-6 students choose from one of 4 pathways within the Major Study stream 1. Professional Studio: This pathway gives students opportunities to take on a variety of recording projects within the professional studio environment. Students will spend much of their time using a variety of industry standard microphones and the classic SSL analog console. Students are required to utilise classical and contemporary recording and mixing techniques. 2. Live Production: Live concert sound is fast becoming the main area for work opportunities for the audio engineer. This pathway gives students opportunities to practise live sound in a range of venues. AIM has a number of concert halls and theatres on campus, and these become the classroom for the Live Production students. Students also explore the design and connectivity of larger systems and undertake a variety of live performance recordings. 3. Studio: The digital studio is the new creative environment for the contemporary musician, producer and engineer. Using powerful and complex synthesisers, drum machines and samplers this pathway allows students to explore the many possibilities these tools have to offer. The digital studio pathway allows students to get under the hood of these exciting instruments, and explore areas of sound design and shaping critical for contemporary music productions. 4. Media Post-Production: The Media Post-Production pathway allows specialist study in the exciting area of sound for picture. Whether it be recording dialogue for a feature film, creating sound effects for computer games and animations, or mixing sound in 5.1 surround, the Media Post-production students combine technical and creative skills. Our specially designed recording studios give students real-world experience in this everexpanding industry.

5 STAGE 3: INDUSTRY STAGE (TRIMESTER 3) AUDIO MAJOR (A1AM3) Students follow one of 4 pathways in the major (see page 4 of this PDF for descriptions) PROFESSIONAL STUDIO LIVE PRODUCTION DIGITAL STUDIO MEDIA POST-PRODUCTION AUDIO TECHNOLOGY 3 (A1AT3) Focus on acoustics, with particular emphasis on studio and control room design. The unit begins by revising some theoretical principles, but applying them in the context of a recording studio. Studio design considerations, room modes, complete with modal calculations are examined, Students explore a range of specific materials which can be used to absorb sound, reflect sound, thereby controlling reverberation. Materials are also examined for their soundproofing properties. Students identify ways of sound isolation, with emphasis on the design of critical listening DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY 3 (A1DT3) Sophisticated techniques for editing and manipulating sound. Inline with the increasing technical complexity, the unit explores effective data and session management protocols. The unit also explores further uses of MIDI technology, sampling and software instruments, in combination with recorded audio, to further enhance music production. Exercises are given where students learn how to efficiently work across a variety of software platforms (such as Logic, Pro Tools LE and Reason) to facilitate completing a production project, and how to import/export data between the platforms where necessary. Students are also encouraged to develop their artistic skills in creating musical productions that are unique and interesting through interactive lectures and tutorials. SELECTION OF CRITICAL STUDIES Develops students critical thinking (the ability to contextualise and critique) and knowledge in their areas of interest. Critical Studies are designed to be both specialist and practical. Each unit has a history and theory component to familiarise students with the context and practice of their area of choice. Students may elect to do a contemporary stream (Contemporary 1 and 2, Jazz 1 and 2), a classical stream (Baroque, Classical, Romantic and 20th Century). Students may also choose from a range of units on offer each semester, depending upon their areas of interest and their intended career path. AURAL 3 (G1AU3) Enhances aural perception of the elements of music in a range of different musical idioms enabling students to appreciate music as an aural art and to discover musical sounds for themselves. Students begin to develop practical skills necessary for continued success in aural theory. Emphasis is placed on meter identification, intervals, rhythmic patterns, and triads. Provides aural development to enhance the student s ability to improve intonation accuracy of their chosen major study, develop transcription skills and aurally recognise musical phrases. 3 (P1EN3) The third of 6 degree levels, provides an opportunity for students to begin to explore and develop their skills within a group. Consistent attendance is important as each member is of critical importance to the success of the ensemble. Survey of the Arts and Entertainment Industry (M1MAE) The unit provides students within the Institute with fundamental entertainment industry related knowledge necessary for the successful development of their careers. This encompasses topics such as marketing, copyright law, sources of funding, event management, and setting up a small business. ELECTIVES Associated Studies are elective units that supplement your studies, allowing you to take units from other streams, allowing you to shape and create diversity in your education. Some popular elective examples include: Arranging Arts & Entertainment law, Technology, Introduction to Film & Screen, Introduction to Arts and Entertainment Management, Songwriting, Acting: Imagination and the Actor, Technology, Keyboard Skills, Movement for Stage, Electronic Music, DJ Electronic Music, Synthesis, Foundations of Improvisation, Guitar Skills, Conducting, Teaching Techniques. * Many more to choose from across all major study streams of study.

6 STAGE 4: INDUSTRY STAGE (TRIMESTER 4) AUDIO MAJOR (A1AM4) Students follow one of 4 pathways in the major (see page 4 of this PDF for descriptions) PROFESSIONAL STUDIO LIVE PRODUCTION DIGITAL STUDIO MEDIA POST-PRODUCTION AUDIO TECHNOLOGY 4 (A1AT4) In AT4, students gain an understanding of the basic principles of electronics and simple electrical circuits. Students explore the fundamental terms and laws applying to electricity, and perform simple calculations of voltage, current and resistance. Common components are described, their uses and operation. Simple electrical circuits are examined in detail regarding design and function. On a practical level, students learn how to solder and then design and build their own microphone. There is also particular emphasis on OHS issues with regards to safely dealing with electricity. DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY 4 (A1DT4) This unit increases a students understanding working on projects across multiple production software tools, and associated technologies. The use of software instruments is heavily incorporated into this unit, and how they can be incorporated into acoustically recorded projects. Advanced tempo management skills, MIDI recording and editing and sampling are all featured. The unit also examines the potential for incorporating external sound devices into a project via the MIDI protocol, and finishes with an introduction to post production environments, SELECTION OF CRITICAL STUDIES Develops students critical thinking (the ability to contextualise and critique) and knowledge in their areas of interest. Critical Studies are designed to be both specialist and practical. Each unit has a history and theory component to familiarise students with the context and practice of their area of choice. Students may elect to do a contemporary stream (Contemporary 1 and 2, Jazz 1 and 2), a classical stream (Baroque, Classical, Romantic and 20th Century). Students may also choose from a range of units on offer each semester, depending upon their areas of interest and their intended career path. AURAL 4 (G1AU4) Further develops and enhances aural perception of the elements of music in a range of different musical idioms enabling students to appreciate music as an aural art and to discover musical sounds for themselves. Students begin to develop practical skills necessary for continued success in aural theory. Emphasis is placed on meter identification, intervals, rhythmic patterns, and triads. Provides aural development to enhance the student s ability to improve intonation accuracy of their chosen major study, develop transcription skills and aurally recognise musical phrases. 4 (P1EN4) This unit is the fourth of 6 degree level ensemble and provides an opportunity for students to begin to explore and develop their skills within a group. Consistent attendance is important as each member is of critical importance to the success of the ensemble ELECTIVES x 2 Associated Studies are elective units that supplement your studies, allowing you to take units from other streams, allowing you to shape and create diversity in your education. Some popular elective examples include: Arranging Arts & Entertainment law, Technology, Introduction to Film & Screen, Introduction to Arts and Entertainment Management, Songwriting, Acting: Imagination and the Actor, Technology, Keyboard Skills, Movement for Stage, Electronic Music, DJ Electronic Music, Synthesis, Foundations of Improvisation, Guitar Skills, Conducting, Teaching Techniques. * Many more to choose from across all major study streams of study.

7 STAGE 5: INDUSTRY STAGE (TRIMESTER 5) AUDIO MAJOR (A1AM5) Students follow one of 4 pathways in the major (see page 4 of this PDF for descriptions) PROFESSIONAL STUDIO LIVE PRODUCTION DIGITAL STUDIO MEDIA POST-PRODUCTION AUDIO TECHNOLOGY 5 (A1AT5) This unit is an in-depth study of digital audio and its related media. Current digital audio formats are examined in detail - including uses, encoding/decoding methods and structure. Surround sound formats and other multichannel audio formats are examined, with particular emphasis on Dolby. There is also an examination of potential future formats and technologies. Including high resolution audio. DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY 5 (A1DT5) The fifth of six units in Technology as part of the Bachelor of Music ( Technology) program. The subject areas covered are: ProTools implementation for the life cycle of a recording project, Introduction to professional ProTools strategies, Communication in the pre-production phase, Setup for a recording session, Communication and strategies in the recording session, Preparation for editing, Data management and backup, Editing, mixing and mastering strategies in ProTools, Managing ProTools System Resources, Software performance indicators and settings, Hardware performance indicators and settings, Managing latency, Synchronisation, Moving sessions between different ProTools systems and Final audio delivery strategies. SELECTION OF CRITICAL STUDIES Develops students critical thinking (the ability to contextualise and critique) and knowledge in their areas of interest. Critical Studies are designed to be both specialist and practical. Each unit has a history and theory component to familiarise students with the context and practice of their area of choice. Students may elect to do a contemporary stream (Contemporary 1 and 2, Jazz 1 and 2), a classical stream (Baroque, Classical, Romantic and 20th Century). Students may also choose from a range of units on offer each semester, depending upon their areas of interest and their intended career path. AURAL 5 (G1AU5) OR ELECTIVE Further develops and enhances aural perception of the elements of music in a range of different musical idioms enabling students to appreciate music as an aural art and to discover musical sounds for themselves. Students begin to develop practical skills necessary for continued success in aural theory. Emphasis is placed on meter identification, intervals, rhythmic patterns, and triads. Provides aural development to enhance the student s ability to improve intonation accuracy of their chosen major study, develop transcription skills and aurally recognise musical phrases. 5 (P1EN5) This unit is the fifth of 6 degree level ensemble and provides an opportunity for students to begin to explore and develop their skills within a group. Consistent attendance is important as each member is of critical importance to the success of the ensemble. ELECTIVES x 2 Associated Studies are elective units that supplement your studies, allowing you to take units from other streams, allowing you to shape and create diversity in your education. Some popular elective examples include: Arranging Arts & Entertainment law, Technology, Introduction to Film & Screen, Introduction to Arts and Entertainment Management, Songwriting, Acting: Imagination and the Actor, Technology, Keyboard Skills, Movement for Stage, Electronic Music, DJ Electronic Music, Synthesis, Foundations of Improvisation, Guitar Skills, Conducting, Teaching Techniques. * Many more to choose from across all major study streams of study.

8 STAGE 6: INDUSTRY STAGE (TRIMESTER 6) PlLEASE NOTE: these descriptions are for brief overview purposes only. AUDIO MAJOR (A1AM6) Students follow one of 4 pathways in the major (see page 4 of this PDF for descriptions) PROFESSIONAL STUDIO LIVE PRODUCTION DIGITAL STUDIO MEDIA POST-PRODUCTION AUDIO TECHNOLOGY 6 (A1AT6) This unit commences with a high degree of analyses and critique of a range of audio recordings. The aim is for students to ascertain how the technology affected the overall recording outcome, and how they may use the same technology to produce a similar result. The unit then develops into interpreting audio equipment specifications, with an examination of noise and distortion curves. Finally, there is a basic examination of current audio networking technologies and their application. DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY 6 (A1DT6) The final of six units in Technology as part of the Bachelor of Music ( Technology) program. The subject areas covered are: Automation, Advanced Control 24 operation, Plug-ins - EQ, dynamics, delays, reverbs, Plug-ins - special purpose (autotune, spectrum analyser, virtual instruments etc), Plug-in automation, Brief history of multi-channel sound to the present, Setup for multi-channel production in ProTools, Overview of available multi-channel formats, Strategies for multichannel mixing and Delivery options and procedures SELECTION OF CRITICAL STUDIES Develops students critical thinking (the ability to contextualise and critique) and knowledge in their areas of interest. Critical Studies are designed to be both specialist and practical. Each unit has a history and theory component to familiarise students with the context and practice of their area of choice. Students may elect to do a contemporary stream (Contemporary 1 and 2, Jazz 1 and 2), a classical stream (Baroque, Classical, Romantic and 20th Century). Students may also choose from a range of units on offer each semester, depending upon their areas of interest and their intended career path. AURAL 6 (G1AU6) OR ELECTIVE Further develops and enhances aural perception of the elements of music in a range of different musical idioms enabling students to appreciate music as an aural art and to discover musical sounds for themselves. Students begin to develop practical skills necessary for continued success in aural theory. Emphasis is placed on meter identification, intervals, rhythmic patterns, and triads. Provides aural development to enhance the student s ability to improve intonation accuracy of their chosen major study, develop transcription skills and aurally recognise musical phrases. 6 (P1EN6) This unit is the sixth and final ensemble unit and provides an opportunity for students to begin to explore and develop their skills within a group. Consistent attendance is important as each member is of critical importance to the success of the ensemble. ELECTIVES x 2 Associated Studies are elective units that supplement your studies, allowing you to take units from other streams, allowing you to shape and create diversity in your education. Some popular elective examples include: Arranging Arts & Entertainment law, Technology, Introduction to Film & Screen, Introduction to Arts and Entertainment Management, Songwriting, Acting: Imagination and the Actor, Technology, Keyboard Skills, Movement for Stage, Electronic Music, DJ Electronic Music, Synthesis, Foundations of Improvisation, Guitar Skills, Conducting, Teaching Techniques. * Many more to choose from across all major study streams of study.