Course Title: Mix recorded music

Part B: Course Detail

Teaching Period: Term2 2021

Course Code: VART6413C

Course Title: Mix recorded music

School: 375T Vocational Design and Social Context

Campus: City Campus

Program: C5378 - Diploma of Music Industry (Sound Production)

Course Contact: John Phillips

Course Contact Phone: +61 3 9925 4913

Course Contact Email: john.phillips@rmit.edu.au


Name and Contact Details of All Other Relevant Staff

Teacher: Tim Johnston

Email: timothy.johnston@rmit.edu.au 

Nominal Hours: 50

Regardless of the mode of delivery, represent a guide to the relative teaching time and student effort required to successfully achieve a particular competency/module. This may include not only scheduled classes or workplace visits but also the amount of effort required to undertake, evaluate and complete all assessment requirements, including any non-classroom activities.

Pre-requisites and Co-requisites

None

Course Description

The unit describes the skills and knowledge required to mix music that has been recorded live or in a studio. It involves balancing all instrumentals, vocals and recorded/imported sounds, and adding effects.

It applies to individuals who work with clients and colleagues to mix down existing multi-track recordings to formats ready for mastering.

This unit will focus on supervised recording studio use and tuition, completing the final mix of material recorded in the recording studio. Students will cover the practice of final sound mix-down in a professional studio environment.


National Codes, Titles, Elements and Performance Criteria

National Element Code & Title:

CUASOU409 Mix recorded music

Element:

1. Prepare for music mix

Performance Criteria:

1.1 Consult with relevant people to clarify mixing requirements with reference to documentation from recording sessions

1.2 Allocate sufficient time to complete the mix and organise required facilities and equipment

1.3 Anticipate problems that may arise during the mixing process, and plan accordingly

Element:

2. Mix music elements

Performance Criteria:

2.1 Confirm that headphones and studio monitors are set at appropriate levels

2.2 Follow work health and safety (WHS) procedures and use safe work practices when using sound mixing software and equipment

2.3 Balance instruments and vocals

2.4 Apply appropriate effects to enhance the music mix

2.5 Apply understanding of music genre mix styles to enhance the sound of the mix

2.6 Consider client preferences when determining how the mix should sound

2.7 Remove unwanted sound from each recorded track in the mix

2.8 Seek feedback on draft mix from relevant people, and adjust as required

Element:

3. Finalise mixing operations

Performance Criteria:

3.1 Save and deliver final mix in the required format for mastering

3.2 Complete relevant documentation on the final mix, and confirm adequate information is provided for mastering and other relevant people

3.3 Confirm work environment is cleaned after use and restored to pre-mixing condition

3.4 Evaluate own performance, and note areas for improvement

Learning Outcomes


On successful completion of this unit, you will be able to complete a multi channel music mixdown, utilising large format consoles, hardware & software processors through a variety of monitors.


Details of Learning Activities

Learning will occur in class delivery and project work. Some external project completion will be required out of class, including:

  • class exercises 
  • analysis/critique of relevant reading material 
  • design activities or projects 
  • class presentations 
  • group discussion 
  • research 
  • independent project-based work 
  • ‘workshopping’ of student projects including peer/lecturer feedback 


Teaching Schedule

Class    

Class Content

 Assessment

Class 1

Recording/Mixing in recording studio


Class 2

Recording/Mixing in recording studio

EOP

Class 3

Recording/Mixing in recording studio


Class 4

Recording/Mixing in recording studio


Class 5

Recording/Mixing in recording studio


Class 6

Mixdown in recording studio


Class 7

Mixdown in recording studio


Class 8

Mixdown in recording studio


Class 9

Mixdown in recording studio


Class 10

Mixdown / final master in recording studio

Major Recording Project
 







Learning Resources

Prescribed Texts


References


Other Resources

The University Library has extensive resources and provides subject specialist expertise, research advice, help with referencing and support through:

The learning Lab
www.rmit.edu.au/students/study-support/learning-lab
The Study Support Hub
https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/study-support/study-support-hub
English for uni workshops
https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/study-support/workshops/english-uni-workshops


Overview of Assessment

Assessment tasks in the course include a group based recording and mixing project, undertaken in an industry standard large format sound production studio.


Assessment Tasks

Students enrolled in Vocational Education and Training qualifications are assessed for Competency. To be assessed as Competent means you have consistently demonstrated the required knowledge and skills at a standard expected in the workplace.  

To be assessed as Competent in this course, you will need to complete each assessment task to a satisfactory standard. You will receive feedback from the teacher at the conclusion of each assessment task. 
 
You should refer to the assessment brief which is available through Canvas for full assessment criteria and due dates

Assessment Task 1: Knowledge Questions 

Assessment Task 2: Mix Recorded Music - Mix Sound Recordings (Major Recordings Project)


Results that apply to courses that are delivered and assessed in accordance with competency-based assessment are: 

CA: Competency Achieved 
NYC: Not Yet Competent 
DNS: Did not Submit for Assessment 


Assessment Matrix

The assessment matrix demonstrates alignment of assessment tasks with the relevant unit of competency. These mapping documents are available through Program Administration if required.  

Other Information

Attendance: 

Your learning experience will involve class-based teaching, discussion, demonstration and practical exercises  

It is strongly advised that you attend all timetabled sessions. This will allow you to engage in the required learning activities, ensuring you the maximum opportunity to complete this course successfully. 


Information about your studies: 

You can access My Studies through the RMIT website for information about timetables, important dates, assessment dates, results and progress, Canvas etc. 

 https://www.rmit.edu.au/students 


Assessment: 

Information on assessment including Special consideration, Adjustments to assessment, (eg. applying for an extension of time): 

https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/student-essentials/assessment-and-exams/assessment 


Academic Integrity and Plagiarism:  

RMIT University has a strict policy on plagiarism and academic integrity. Please refer to the website for more information on this policy. 

https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/student-essentials/assessment-and-exams/academic-integrity 


Credit Transfer and Recognition of Prior Learning:  

Credit transfer is the recognition of previously completed formal learning (an officially accredited qualification). 

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is an assessment process that allows you to demonstrate competence using the skills you have gained through experience in the workplace, voluntary work, informal or formal training or other life experiences.   

Please speak to your teacher if you wish to discuss applying for Credit Transfer or RPL for the unit(s) of competency addressed in this course. 

https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/student-essentials/enrolment/apply-for-credit

Course Overview: Access Course Overview