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Unit of Study: DESC9011 - Audio Production

The practice of audio production is a form of constructing discourse, with its own poetics i.e. its own grammar, its own conceptual shorthand, its own languages, and a multiplicity of genre, structures and forms that it sources and references albeit often tacitly or transparently.This unit will look at the current tools and techniques, as well as the underlying strategies, processes and inherent philosophies involved in the various audio production modes. It will compare and contrast broadcast and other media production methods and ideologies including music recording, radio production, sound for picture, and new media, with reference to location recording practices.The unit will examine various sound design philosophies, conventional and 'non-conventional' production models, different definitions by and of producers and provide by way of context a brief history of the impact on production practice by technological change. The producer's role in the process of the creation of meaning will be examined in cultural as well as technical contexts of compositional practices.The unit will encourage debate about and a demystification of current production processes and will aim at developing and extending production techniques towards an individual aesthetic.Students will achieve a basic familiarity and proficiency with mixing consoles, the fundamentals of multi track recording and digital editing; demonstrate an ability to communicate their ideas, and articulate the reasons for their choices of production methods; and work successfully within a group dynamic.Students are expected to work in groups to produce an audio project in one or more of the following areas: drama, feature, documentary, sound composition, or music recording.Students are expected to: participate in the workshops; complete class exercises/constructions; read additional materials to discuss in classes; submit a script, composition or otherwise detailed proposal for recording and postproduction with detailed raison d'aitre of production values; produce and present on Audio CD a completed project, including documentation, evidence of background research, a commentary on the production and production outcomes, track sheets, mixing notes. It may be an adaptation or original work. Themes will be discussed in class.

Unit coordinator: Assoc Prof Bill Martens/Mr Michael Bates

Classes: 3 hours per week lectures and studio work

Assessment: A project and accompanying report

Courses this subject is available in

This unit of study can be undertaken as a part of the following degree programs:

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