These sessions are intended to give a broad introduction to the subject at hand. Each session includes audio and/or video examples and demonstrations and lasts for about 60 minutes, including a Q&A period.

 

Specific topics covered in the Overview Sessions are listed in the following summaries.

 

 

1.  Audio Basics

 

This session covers the vocabulary and underlying principles of sound and audio as well as the kinds of equipment used to make audio recordings, and is recommended as an introduction to the other Overview Sessions for those unfamiliar with the world of music technology.

 

Topics covered in this session include:

 

• The physics of sound
• Frequency and wavelength
• Decibels (dB)
• Equalization (EQ)
• Equipment
• Multitrack recording
• Effects

AV required:  large screen HDTV
 

 

 

2.  Live Sound Equipment Setup and Operation

 

This session provides a description and demonstration of the elements that comprise a live sound system, as would be used during a band concert or play, etc.

 

For a presentation at a school, I will use the school’s own audio equipment, if possible, as my demonstration units, so that students can become familiar with the specific gear they may be working with later.

 

Topics covered in this session include:
 

• Microphones and direct boxes
• Mixers
• Power amplifiers
• Main and monitor speakers
• Effects units
• Live sound systems
• Best practices and “tips”
   

AV required: none

 

 

 

3.  Recording With GarageBand

 

This session demonstrates the basic process of recording and sharing a song using GarageBand, from tracking the parts (or selecting the loops) right through uploading the finished product to iTunes or burning it onto a CD.

 

Topics covered in this session include:

 

• Building a song with loops
• Recording “software instruments” (MIDI)
• Recording “real instruments” (audio)
• Editing and arranging
• Mixing (including effects)
• Sharing songs (on CDs, iTunes, YouTube, etc.)

 

AV required:  large screen HDTV

 

 

 

4.  Setting Up A Minimal Home Recording Studio

 

This session describes and demonstrates the software and hardware elements required for a basic home recording studio.  Specific topics covered include:

 

• Microphones
• Direct boxes
• Audio and MIDI interfaces
• Monitor speakers
• Recording software

 

AV required:  large screen HDTV

 

 

 

5.  Basic Songwriting: Chord Patterns

 

This session offers an introduction to songwriting for those who may have played the songs of others on guitar or piano.  The emphasis here is on common chord patterns and their variations, and how they are combined to “build” an original song.

 

Topics covered in this session include:

 

• Keys and chords
• Common chord patterns
• Typical song structures
• Making your song different
• Notation

 

AV required:  none

Overview Sessions