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Course Syllabus

MUSC 4363 Film Scoring

  • Division: Fine Arts, Comm, and New Media
  • Department: Music
  • Credit/Time Requirement: Credit: 2; Lecture: 1; Lab: 1
  • Prerequisites: Permission of Instructor
  • Semesters Offered: Spring
  • Semester Approved: Spring 2020
  • Five-Year Review Semester: Fall 2025
  • End Semester: Fall 2025
  • Optimum Class Size: 14
  • Maximum Class Size: 16

Course Description

This course focuses on the techniques used in contemporary film scoring, including creation of realistic, electronically produced mockups of orchestral compositions. Students will make an in-depth study of sample-based virtual instruments and their manipulation through Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI). Emphasis will be placed on achieving realism by controlling various MIDI parameters. They will also study the methods used to apply their orchestra mock-ups to film scoring.

Justification

The development of sample libraries has revolutionized the production of music for film, television, and video games. An understanding of this technology is critical for any composer looking for work in these industries. Before being hired, composers need to be able to demonstrate to potential employers how their finished product will sound. The ability to electronically produce professional quality orchestral music is highly beneficial as many projects have very limited budgets for recording live musicians.

Student Learning Outcomes

  1. Students will demonstrate a knowledge of contemporary film scoring techniques.
  2. Students will be able to record and edit MIDI data in Digital Audio Workstations such as Pro Tools, Digital Performer, and Logic as demonstrated through course assignments and the final project.
  3. Students will demonstrate an understanding of sample libraries and technical terms associated with them as documented in course exams and use of sample libraries in the final project.
  4. Students will manipulate various musical parameters such as articulations, dynamics, and vibrato using MIDI controls as demonstrated in the course final project.
  5. Students will electronically produce professional quality, realistic mockups of orchestral music as demonstrated through the course final film scoring project.

Course Content

Overview of film scoring techniquesManipulating emotional response through musicRecording and editing MIDI data in ProtoolsRecording and editing MIDI data in LogicIntroduction to Sample LibrariesArticulation, Vibratato, Dynamic manipulation utilizing MIDI controls.MIDI control manipulation of musical parameters, continued.Production practicumProduction practicum, Final projects