Introduction to Music Technology (300-0-2)

Instructors

Zouning Liao

Meeting Info

RCMA Lower Level 121: Mon, Wed 11:00AM - 12:20PM

Overview of class

Students will learn to record sound and to use Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) to compose and edit their work. Technical topics include acoustics, studio equipment, digital audio theory, sound processing, and mixing. The course also incorporates listening and discussion of acousmatic works to develop students' ability to identify and analyze audio processing techniques as inspiration for their own projects. By the end of the quarter, students will create an original fixed media work as their final project.

Registration Requirements

Registration requires department consent. Priority is given to majors in the Bienen School of Music. To be added to the wait-list for registration, click or copy/paste this link and fill out the application form: https://www.music.northwestern.edu/course-forms. You may apply for a place in any or all Fall 2026 sections of MUS TECH 300 with a single response at that link, but wait-list applications from previous quarters (for MUS TECH 259 or 300) do not carry over.

Learning Objectives

Students will demonstrate understanding of the fundamental concepts outlined in the course overview, including acoustics, studio equipment, digital audio theory, sound processing, and mixing. They will also develop foundational skills in setting up recording equipment and working in Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) for future creative projects.

Teaching Method

The course combines lectures on technical topics with hands-on practice in setting up studio equipment, in-class tutorials on Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs), and group discussions of listening examples. Students will have opportunities to troubleshoot in DAWs in real time with the instructor and with peers during class.

Evaluation Method

Grades will be based on class participation, attendance, assignments, a midterm project, and a final project.

Class Materials (Required)

Students will need to bring a laptop capable of running a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) and headphones to class.

Class Materials (Suggested)

Suggested e-textbook (free of charge): Jeffrey Hass, Introduction to Computer Music
(https://cmtext.com/)

Enrollment Requirements

Enrollment Requirements: Restricted to Music Undergrads/Grads