Fine Arts - Music Technology Concentration, BA

Mission

This program will provide students with solid instruction in the variety of ways computer technology is employed in the music industry. It will cover essentials such as computer software, basic studio design, arranging, songwriting, and internet applications. It is offered as a Major and Minor course of study.  Courses in music theory and past and contemporary music history give a broad background in the understanding of music styles and genres. A course in business rounds out the curriculum and allows for the understanding of law as it applies to contracts, copyright, and electronic media. A Senior Project prepared for internet presentation is required to complete the concentration. In addition to the 28 semester hours of the Music Technology Concentration, students must successfully complete 93 semester hours of General Education, Institutional, and Fine Arts Requirements. It is suggested that students who are proficient on an instrument or voice enroll in an applied lesson each semester of enrollment and participate in one of the several performance opportunities.  

Expected Student Learning Outcomes and Competencies

1. Explore the physical properties of analog and digital sound, synthesizers, microphones, music recording, and the history of electronic music.
2. Develop knowledge of the use of Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) techniques and Audio/Digital for music production.
3. Develop knowledge of the fundamentals of musical composition and arranging for song writing and commercial jingles while utilizing electronic instruments and devices. Notation for small and large ensembles and arranging concepts are among the areas of instruction.
4. Explore and Develop knowledge of the history of past and contemporary music forms, styles, 
5. Develop skills to interface with multimedia projects. Preparation of websites, multi-media Power point presentations, and animation.
6. Gain knowledge and understanding of various recording media, microphones, and sound mixers for live and recording concepts, editing, and mixing techniques.
7. Gain knowledge of the aspects of the business of music, including contracts, management, self-promotions, copyright, Internet, and other electronic media.

Admission Requirements

All students applying for admission into the Music Technology Concentration must take a music fundamentals and theory placement test. Contact the department for the time and date of the online exam. It will be offered during and prior to advisement. The results of this test will determine the student’s level of understanding of music fundamentals and basic theory principles and assist in the advisement of the appropriate theory level.

Music Technology Minor

A minor is Music Technology, which provides an overview of the technology tools and software utilized in music production and performance. The following required course of study is recommended for a Minor in Music Technology Concentration. All MUTE students must meet with the Program Advisor to prepare the appropriate course of study to complete the degree requirements for Music Technology. It requires passing with 18 or 19 credits of selected music technology courses with a grade of “C” or better.