This aspect of the multimedia performance course is about developing ways of using sound production in devised staged work, which embrasses concepts in non- narrative theatre, inlcuding dance theatre, and opera.

This element or plug-in unit, explores the way in which sound production, and sound technology can be used to aid the way in which any staged, or visual idea can be developed, or defined. This course explores ideas surrounding the way in which sound can be used to recontectiualise ideas, and inspire the way a staged sequence of events can evolve. It is about using sound producition as away of lookng at the nature of form, using theatre, art, music, and dance, while at the same time giving students the opportunity to learn sound software, and hardware techniques.

This aspect of the course is in way another way of negotiating areas of compositional studies, but with the focus looking at multimedia from a sound production, and editing persepctive, working without the need for conventional music scoring techniques unless required. It is a very beneficial way for editors, sound technicians, performers and composers a like to use post modern approaches to sound production. This course element is a great way into new creative sound production territory, and the collaborative processes with other artists, and performers involved.

Breakdown of skills learnt:

1. Music and Sound studio techniques

• Sound sequencing and digital software and hardware tone generators working all the latest sequencing packages.

Computer aided writing techniques:

• Working with midi and digital audio manipulation.

• Music sequencing and editing: editing in matrix form and using list edit window.

• Working with scores in computers: Logic and Sibelius: using computers to write and develop scores and preparing scores and parts.

• Software and hardware tone generators.

• Studio Connectivity: internal and external

• Sample techniques.

• Audio and visual formatting.

2. Mixing desk techniques and extended computer controlled music pre and post production.

• Music studio environments: hardware software combinations.

• Mixing tracks: routing, bussing, using effects.

• Sound effects.

• Mastering

3. Recording techniques.

• Working with Recording Artists.

• Using amplification techniques in extended vocal performance practice.

• Recording drama and text.

• Film Sound Recording.

4. Staged music and sound production

• Stage sound production.

• PA systems.

• Using surround sound.