Diploma in Music Technology

Purpose

In response to a skills shortage in the industry this three year full time diploma course is designed to equip the learner with a broad and resilient skill set compatible with the stringent requirements of the modern audio industry. This course is designed to bridge the gap between education and industry as well as develop conceptual, problem solving and social skills applicable in any industry.

Rationale

In response to a technical skills shortage in the audio industry caused by an accelerated pace in the development and implementation of new technologies as well as a rise in the demand for audio based material in a variety of other media such as Games, Video and other online Interactive advertising applications the diploma in sound engineering and music production not only endeavours to equip learners with technical skills necessary to meet those demands but also to develop their creative potential to generate original musical content for those applications. In addition to this skills shortage there is an underutilised potential for growth within the industry. Therefore to complement the technological and creative aspects of the course this diploma incorporates elements of business and entrepreneurship to encourage successful graduates to start their own businesses and grow the capacity of the music industry.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The Diploma in Music Technology, NQF Level 6 may be achieved through the process of Recognition of Prior Learning in either of the following:

• RPL is applied for learners who do not have formal academic achievement to gain access to this qualification. Proven expertise and competency will be considered for this process. Candidates may apply for exemption from certain modules on grounds of prior qualification of study concerned.

A registered Recognition of Prior Learning assessor helps with the implementation of recognition of Prior Learning after a thorough interview with the learner is conducted.

Evidence such as DVDs or CDs of productions that the Recognition of Prior Learning applicant learner has been involved in, or other portfolios of professional experience gained on audio industry relevant projects, may be submitted in lieu of projects or assignments.

Practical assessments and examinations may also be used to assess the skills of the Recognition of Prior Learning applicant learner to determine whether the learner has acquired the requisite skills to satisfy the required outcomes.

Entry Requirements

Learners will be admitted to this qualification on the basis of the following

• National Senior Certificate granting access to Diploma studies.

Or

• A Higher Certificate in Sound Technology.

Or

• A Senior Certificate prior to 2008 also granting access to Diploma studies.

The qualification consists of compulsory modules with 20 Credits each at NQF Levels 5, 6 and 7 Totalling 360 Credits.

Modules at NQF Level 5

• Studio Sound engineering 101.
• Music Production Software 101.
• Music Production Technique 101.
• Music for Game Audio 101.
• Contemporary Music Theory 101.
• Music ear training 101.

Modules at NQF Level 6

• Studio sound Engineering 201.
• Music Production Technique 201.
• Contemporary Music Theory 201.
• Music ear Training 201.
• Music Business 201.
• Live Sound-Engineering 201.
• Music Industry Praxis 301 (experiential).
• Live Sound-Engineering 301.
• Music Business 301.

Modules at NQF Level 7

• Music Post Production 301.
• Music Sound synthesis 301.
• Music Production Technique 301 (requires MPT 201).

1. Demonstrate proficiency in the recording mixing and mastering of audio productions.
2. Setup and operation of a live sound reinforcement system.
3. Demonstrate the capacity to utilise DAW platforms for the purpose of music production.
4. Demonstrate an understanding of the theory of music.
5. Produce marketable original musical material in a variety of musical genres and for a range of applications.
6. Synthesise sounds for musical and special effects applications.
7. Demonstrate the ability to work with audio for multimedia applications such as games and video.
8. Demonstrate an understanding of the South African music industry.
9. Identify and develop entrepreneurial ideas and opportunities.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• A range of source instruments are recorded.
• A comprehensive mix of multitrack material is created.
• Technically and aesthetically adequate audio masters are generated.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Live sound reinforcement system for live music is set up.
• Analogue and digital mixing consoles are utilised.
• Outboard equipment is used to mix a live show.
• Operational failures are troubleshooted.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• Digital Audio Workstation is used to produce, record, edit mix and master audio material.
• Intricate sequencing techniques are used for the creation of original musical works.
• DAW functionality is utilised to produce interactive or live performances.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

• Musical scores are read and interpreted.
• Music is composed by making use of triads, major and minor scales in a range of time and key signatures.
• Additive rhythmic ideas are identified and developed for compositional purposes.
• Complex multi layered harmonies are constructed to enhance the compositional process.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5

• Jingles for advertising are produced.
• Full original compositions are produced in a variety of genres.
• Remixes are created.
• Music for games is produced.
• Music for video is produced.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6

• Original musical sounds are created by making use of subtractive synthesis.
• Definition of required special effects is given to create suitable original audio effects.
• Object oriented programming is effectively implemented in the creation of user friendly original synthesis instruments.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7

• All audio elements are sourced satisfactorily including but not limited to dialogue music foley special effects for video in stereo and surround sound.
• All sourced audio components for gaming application are created, recorded, mixed and mastered making use of industry standard tools and practices.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8

• The roles of a range of participants in the South African music industry are identified and described.
• Marketing and branding strategies are produced.
• The legal aspects of music are understood and interpreted.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 9

• Entrepreneurship is defined.
• Problem solving skills are described and implemented.
• Business performance is evaluated through the analysis of financial statements.
• Potential risks to a business are identified and planned.

Integrated Assessment

The outcomes of this course are assessed by means of

• Weekly online formative exercises designed to reinforce and verify acquisition of theoretical knowledge.
• Continuous practical assessment in studio, on site or in the classroom, where each student is required to demonstrate individual competence against a set of criteria.
• Individual assignments where students need to demonstrate independent competence in the completion of tasks relevant to the desired outcomes of the course.
• Written summative assessment.
• Work experience log book that shows evidence of practical experience.
• Portfolio of evidence consisting of evidence accumulated in each module.