GACE Music Technology

Discuss the mechanisms of a simple sound system following sound from an input transducer to an output transducer

A simple sound system includes an Input Transducer, Signal Processing, and an Output Transducer.

Input Transducer is like a microphone that converts sound into audio signals and sends it to the Signal processor.

Signal Processor is like a mixing console where the audio signals are processed in 3 ways. 

1st way: The signal goes through a Preamplification system

2nd way: The signal goes through an Equalizer 

3rd way: The signal goes through a Mixing process

Output transducer is like a loudspeaker where the output signal is amplified and converted back into sound.

Discuss proper microphone technique for vocal amplification

Vocal Amplification requires proper microphone technique.

A good sound starts with an ideal fit between the voice and the microphone. 

The singer should sing into the center of the mic. 

A high pitched voice fits with a microphone with warmth through the mid and low ranges.

Deeper and Darker voices fit with a mic that lightens the sound with treble and upper-mids. 

Discuss MIDI technology and give examples of its capabilities within music production

Musical Instrument Digital Interface allows communication between digital keyboards and computers. 

MIDI includes tempo, instruments, and volume.

Due to its versatility, MIDI has become a staple in the music industry.

Define a DAW, its uses, and include three to five popular examples of sequencing software

Digital Audio Workstation is a computer based recording and mixing tool.

A DAW includes a computer, the digital audio software, interface and plugins. 

Avid Pro Tools is a popular DAW software and has become a staple in the industry. 

Logic is compatible with Apple products

Ableton Live is the best used for live recordings

FL Studio is best used to creating loops and sample based music

Describe the ideal features of a classroom computer for music use

Having computers with musical software is an essential resource for the modern music student. 

It can help reinforce learned materials, and offer students multiple resources.

Describe various notation software and methods for incorporating the software into instructional activities

These software provide an important tool in allowing students to notate compositions. 

It helps students learn musical concepts and composition

Sibelius features great editing options.

Finale features student versions

MagicScore Maestro features easy notation

Forte Home is great for beginners

Describe methods of inputting music into desktop music publishing software

Many programs notate the music as its being played: MIDI

Some programs notate music that is sung.

Manually placing each note and also scanning print music.

Describe the software capabilities of Finale, Nightingale, and Overture

Finale allows music to be input through MIDI and converts it onto the staff. 

Nightingale is only for MAC users. It is simple and basic notation. 

Overture is a highly intuitive notation software. It also offers Virtual Studio Technology, and plugins.

Describe the necessity of filtering software for music classrooms.

Filtering software protects students from inappropriate material. It is required to give students a safe learning environment.

Describe situations in which a music license is necessary or unnecessary for student recordings

Music teachers are exempt from copyright recording laws only if they make a single copy of a student performance for educational purposes.

Duplicates are required to have a license.

All royalties are required to be paid by the music teachers.