Composition Technology

by Timothy Gmeiner (built upon curriculum work by Bob Kostlan, dept. chair, Commercial Music at San Diego City College), taught at San Diego City College

About: This course is a practical study of the fundamentals of technology used for music composition and notation required to work in a professional recording studio or commercial music environment. Emphasis is placed on rudimentary Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) sequencing, notation of music scores, and basic keyboarding / MIDI controller skills. Topics include meter, pitch, chords, and scales. This course is intended for students majoring in music production technology.

Generative sound synthesis, etc. etc. (list of projects, things discussed) advanced topics etc.

Learning Outcomes: Upon successful completion of the course the student will be able to:

• Explain history of the creation and implementation of MIDI while utilizing specific MIDI terminology.

• Explain signal flow of a MIDI signal path used in professional level software.

• Explain multiple forms of MIDI data input / output.

• Operate several types of MIDI instrument and effect devices in professional level software.

• Operate MIDI hardware and successfully incorporate it with MIDI software.

• Create a professional level music notation with full ensemble score and individual parts / performer score.

• Create original pieces of music using MIDI sequencing as finished works and or used as backing / practice tracks for live musician rehearsal.

Available as an in-person and synchronous/asynchronous virtual course.