National Certificate in Audio Production

National Certificate in Audio Production - Unit Overview

Trimester 1

NCAP101: Principles of Sound and Sound Production

This unit introduces fundamental principles of audio technologies used for sound recording and reproduction. The science of sound is examined, including the physical and mathematical principles & electronic concepts and theories that relate to the propagation of sound in the recording process and human auditory perception.

NCAP102: Introduction to Audio Technology

Students are introduced to the fundamentals of recording & mixdown of music in a recording studio environment. Theories of audio recording technologies are taught combined with practical music and vocal compilation using a digital audio workstation (DAW) to produce a recorded work. Studio roles & processes of the recording studio, recording console signal flow diagrams and the application of different microphone types in a variety of common studio settings are studied.

NCAP103: Music Styles

Musical styles & movements from the late Renaissance period to the present, and key technological developments shaping the music industry are studied. Key styles, genres and leading figures expanding the music art form as a means of expression are explored. The unit examines social, cultural, and political forces that have influenced music and the music industry.

NCAP104: Signal Processing & Aural Perception

This unit examines common signal processing techniques that are commonly applied using hardware and digital emulations. Deconstructing a variety of musical performances and analysing the various kinds of processing used within a mix, students are encouraged to explore creative uses of these technologies when recording or mixing a musical performance.

Trimester 2

NCAP201: Digital Audio Production

Theories of digital technology in audio production are explored. Students learn the practical preparation of a digital audio workstation (DAW) for recording and mixdown of multi-tracked musical performances. The unit covers professional practice with respect to the management of performers and the media created during recording sessions, editing and processing.

NCAP202: MIDI and Electronic Music Production

The art and science of electronic music production (EMP) using a digital audio workstation is the focus of this unit. The history of sound synthesis and its influence on the popular musical landscape is analysed and the contribution of synthesized instruments/sounds in different musical genres is considered.

NCAP203: Applied Music Theory

Contemporary music language is examined in relation to song structure, arrangement, music composition and score reading skills. Students learn appreciation of the elements of music, through directed listening and application of music fundamentals culminating in a creative project.

NCAP204: Studio Production

This unit builds on foundation recording studio production skills to an intermediate level. Students learn professional project management of the audio environment and how to handle the psychological pressure of a recording session in a competent manner. A variety of recording and mixdown techniques are considered in order to improve thinking and practical skills for studio recording sessions.

Trimester 3

NCAP301: Creative Project

This unit is the culmination of the year’s audio production studies in the realisation of a creative audio project as a means of artistic expression. The project requires students to plan, manage and complete a creative work within a specialised area of audio production, demonstrating technical & creative abilities, with a written report documenting the process.

NCAP302: Acoustics and Live Sound Production

Understanding of acoustics, with emphasis on sound behaviour in enclosed spaces and live sound reinforcement venues is studied in this unit. Acoustic issues, the designs and construction techniques used in modern recording studios, budget considerations relating to common studio designs are examined. A comprehensive understanding of sound reinforcement techniques are developed, in theory and in practice.

NCAP303: Audio Post Production

Students are introduced to key elements of sound in audio post production. A history of sound for motion picture and television is studied, reviewing a variety of audio post technologies past and present and techniques & methods used by engineers and sound designers.

NCAP304: Mastering & Media Preparation

This unit examines a range of tools and practices used in the compilation and mastering of media for platforms: CD, DVD and the Internet. An historical perspective to media management, technical and aesthetic influences from vinyl to digital media and final audio masters for delivery systems such as radio. Students apply these techniques to a portfolio (master) of their recordings.