Record Production MA

You will analyse and study methodologies, practices and positions on recorded ‘realism’ and be introduced to more experimental approaches to recording that might subvert this. You will be given the opportunity to conduct self-directed research into both development and future use of microphone & recording technology via both stereo and surround microphone techniques.

This module will investigate the idea that musical performance for recorded output is very different to concert performance. You will learn how a record producer not only has to be aware of these differences, but also of what is required at a psychological and interpersonal level, and how to achieve it.

In this module you will study the development of recording technology from the beginning of the 20th century including how these developments varied geographically, socially and culturally. You will look into questions such as:

• Did the spread of audio technology occur at the same time in India as it did in Argentina?
• How did the apartheid system in South Africa affect the production techniques used by black African artists compared to white artists?
• Why have there been and continue to be so few women producers?

You will also explore the debate surrounding the differences between analogue and digital sound.

This module explores the process of combining sounds, from simplistic mono tape recordings through to multi-tracked, multi-channelled environments. You will deconstruct different genres of music focusing on the working practices and methods applied when combining and mixing sounds. Practical studio sessions will allow you to experiment and analyse sound construction and multi-layering techniques. 

You will be trained in research methods and critical methodology as preparation for undertaking research that supports and advances the project work in your course. You will define, articulate and critically reflect upon the research concerns of your own practice, thereby underpinning and enhancing your knowledge and understanding of your chosen field of study. You will present your work at the multi-disciplinary LCM postgraduate conference.

You will study how the techniques for manipulation of audio have transformed the recording process, to the point where the recording studio (or now a computer) can be considered as an ëinstrumentí in its own right. In addition to studying techniques from the traditional to the advanced, you will look at the theoretical and practical considerations of manipulating audio.

For this module you will undertake an ambitious and self-managed large-scale practical project on a topic of your choice. The project will be framed by a study of contemporary research around your topic, and will be designed to expand and enhance the skills and knowledge around a specialised area. The project makes an excellent showcase to kickstart your future career.