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Unit of study_
MUSC2653: Introduction to Digital Music Techniques
2026 unit information
This unit offers an engaging introduction to creative music and sound production through the use of digital tools and techniques. Designed as a hands-on course, students will undertake creative projects that facilitate learning while allowing them to explore and express their unique artistic voice. Participants will encounter a range of genres and formats, and gain practical experience with industry-standard tools and techniques including basic sound recording, manipulation and mixing. This course is suitable for individuals looking for an introductory experience while providing a solid foundation for working professionally in sound production.
Unit details and rules
Managing faculty or University school:
Sydney Conservatorium of Music
| Study level | Undergraduate |
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| Academic unit | Composition and Music Technology |
| Credit points | 6 |
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Prerequisites:
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None |
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Corequisites:
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None |
| Prohibitions:
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MUSC3603 |
| Assumed knowledge:
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None |
At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:
- LO1. Learn fundamentals of sound, Learn and employ basic acoustic terminology and relate such terminology to real-world audio situations.
- LO2. Record, document and edit a two-track studio-style recording using portable field recorders and industry-standard stereo editing software
- LO3. Deliver such content via a variety of mediums, including online media platforms
- LO4. Learn the fundamentals of sound and applying those to mixing an audio track. This includes techniques for hearing and practical techniques for achieving a good basic mix.
- LO5. Document the process using online social media and other “social composing” contexts
- LO6. Analyse the structure of a simple piece of electronic dance music and gain an understanding of the way such works may be created, including textural concepts and the possibilities in using such works as model for further composition
- LO7. Use various essential Digital composing "intruments" and filters to create a work of electronic dance music based on a model
- LO8. Learn to devise creative workflows which suit your personal creative style and which result in a healthy, productive creative approach to composing.
- LO9. Establish the differences between 'real" audio and midi (musical instrument digital interface) information, including a basic introduction to synthesis
- LO10. Disseminate material to a global audience via online services
- LO11. Understand the development of a variety of electroacoustic music trends and patterns across the twentieth century across a wide variety of genres, as well as learn to research appropriately material
- LO12. Use audio material efficiently with regard to contemporary copyright law.
Unit availability
This section lists the session, attendance modes and locations the unit is available in. There is a unit outline for each of the unit availabilities, which gives you information about the unit including assessment details and a schedule of weekly activities.
The outline is published 2 weeks before the first day of teaching. You can look at previous outlines for a guide to the details of a unit.
| Session | MoA ? | Location | Outline ? |
|---|---|---|---|
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Semester 1 2026
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Normal day | Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney |
Outline unavailable
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Modes of attendance (MoA)
This refers to the Mode of attendance (MoA) for the unit as it appears when you’re selecting your units in Sydney Student. Find more information about modes of attendance on our website.
Important enrolment information
Additional advice
An ability to read music at a basic level and an understanding of fundamental musical terminology is an advantage in this unit of study.