Although rare, online music production
programs are available at both the associate and bachelor's degree
levels. Students enrolled in these programs develop the technical skills
to effectively record and produce musical compositions.
Overview of an Online Associate Degree in Music Technology
An associate degree in music technology provides instruction in the basic principles of
audio production
and recording, including training in industry software like Digidesign
and Pro Tools. Courses cover recording and production techniques, such
as digital, multi-track and live performance recording. Graduates gain
knowledge and skills needed to pursue careers like concert promotion,
music production,
sound for video, music marketing and other multimedia job opportunities
within the entertainment and media industry. These programs typically
do not require applicants to have traditional music skills, such as the
ability to read music notation or perform on an instrument.
This type of music production degree can be completed 100% online or
through a combination of online and on-campus coursework. The curriculum
typically incorporates general education coursework and other support
courses in music and related fields, such as graphic design, radio
broadcasting and video arts. In addition to the technical aspects of the
recording and production industry, courses encompass different types of
music styles, including classical, jazz, swing, techno and music from
other cultures. The music technology associate degree usually requires
two years to complete.
Common Online Associate-Level Music Production Courses
Online courses for this field of study often cover topics such as
songwriting, performance, digital audio production and those detailed
below.
Audio Recording and Production Course
This course provides students with instruction in multi-track
recording and contemporary production techniques. Topics include
timestretching, pitchshifting, quantizing and beat loop construction.
Recording Studio Basics Course
Students are introduced to the concepts and techniques of common
equipment found in a recording studio, including signal processors,
mixing boards, microphones and amplifiers. Topics covered include
computer-based recording, microphone placement, and the physics of
sound.
Music Business Course
Emphasis is placed on the business and legal aspects of the music
industry. Students study the basics of copyright, licensing, publishing
and promotional law.
Career opportunities for individuals with a degree in music
production include sound engineering, production management and sound
mixing. Salaries and wages vary widely within the recording industry
depending on location, employer and level of experience. However, the
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) says that as of May 2009, sound
engineering technicians earned a median annual wage of $46,370 (
www.bls.gov).
Overview of an Online Bachelor's Degree in Music Production and Technology
Online music production bachelor's degree programs provide students
with the technical knowledge needed to work in the music production and
recording arts industry. These programs typically award a Bachelor of
Science degree. The curriculum for these programs often combines courses
in electrical engineering, computer science and technology with
traditional studies in music theory, performance and composition.
Students typically develop critical listening skills and learn how to
record, edit, synthesize, and test multimedia audio recordings. Upon
graduation, students are often equipped with a professional portfolio of
music projects that demonstrate skills and ability in professional
music production.
Through an accelerated online program this undergraduate degree can
be completed in approximately 32 months. Courses familiarize students
with contemporary music hardware and software technology by creating
their own soundtracks, songs and scores. Courses are typically conducted
in a standard 4-week format. Technology requirements for the online
music production program require specific Apple software that will allow
students to create music, design, film and animation projects. Once
enrolled in a program, students have the option to purchase the required
software and computer components at a deeply discounted rate.
Common Online Bachelor's-Level Music Production Courses
Online music production courses focus on providing a well rounding
education in music theory, composition, engineering and marketing.
Music Theory Course
This online course focuses on the construction of music and
introduces students to song form and notation. Students learn to
communicate effectively with composers, musicians, directors and
producers through the study of the workings of music and sound.
Digital Recording Course
Lessons include an overview of recording software, input devices,
standard music production practices and common challenges presented in a
studio environment. Students are trained in how to create professional
quality sound results from a laptop-based studio environment.
Music Business Marketing Course
Students study the basic concepts of marketing as they pertain to the
music business. Projects include strategic plans that incorporate
entertainment licensing and promotional avenues, such as the Internet,
trade publications and trade shows. How consumer behavior effects the
entertainment industry is also examined.
Career opportunities for individuals with a bachelor's degree in
music production are very similar to those who have completed an
associate degree program. According to the BLS, the Los Angeles
metropolitan area offers the best geographic location for employment
opportunities, boasting the highest concentration of employed
professionals in the field and a median annual wage of $77,100 for sound
engineering technicians. In addition to the music industry, recording
technicians and producers are needed in the movie, television and
broadcast fields. The BLS estimates job opportunities for sound
engineering technicians to grow by eight percent, about as fast as the
average for all occupations, between 2008 and 2018.
Recording industry professionals are can stay up-to-date with
emerging technologies and music production techniques by participating
in continuing education opportunities. Continuing education courses are
available through major universities, colleges and conservatories as
well as professional organizations, such as the American Society of
Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP). The Audio Engineering Society
(AES) also provides a variety of learning opportunities through
regional conferences and an annual national convention.
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