Component 3 – Understanding the content

In this, A Level Music Technology Component 3 Listening and Analysing Revision Session we are going to look at preparing for your exam and the content that will come up.

The areas of study that we look at include:

* Area of study 1 – Recording and Production Techniques

* Area of study 2 – Principles of sound and audio technology

* Area of study 3 – The development of recording and production technologies *

The history and development of music technology

* Listening genes for music technology

Question Types – Area of study 1 – Recording & Production Techniques

• Recording & Sequencing – Capture of sound, Synthesis, Sampling
• Audio Editing – Pitch and Rhythm Correction and Manipulation
• Mixing – Automation, Dynamic Processing, Stereo, EQ, Effects, Balance and Blend
• Mastering

Question Types – Area of study 2 – Principles of Sound and Audio Technology

• Acoustics
• Leads and signal
• Numeracy (A Level only)
• Levels

Question Types – Area of study 3 – The development of recording and production technology

• Software and Hardware: Digital
• Hardware: Analogue

Question Types – History & Development

• Digital audio workstations (DAW) and emerging technologies (c.1996–present day)
• Digital recording and sequencing (c.1980–present day)
• Large-scale analogue multitrack(c.1969–1995)
• Early multitrack recording(c.1964–1969)
• Direct to tape mono recording (c.1930–1963)

Question Types – Genres for Listening

• Early Genres – Jazz, Blues, Rock ‘n’ roll
• Evolving Genres – Rock, Metal, Punk, Soul, Disco and funk, Reggae
  
• Middle of the road – Acoustic and folk music –
  
• Modern genres – Commercial pop, Urban, Electronic and dance
  
• Music for the media – computer game and film