Introduction to the Soundrack

Subject guarantor:

Eric ROSENZVEIG

Name of lecturer(s):

Eric ROSENZVEIG

Learning outcomes of the course unit:

The first objective of this course is to be able to clearly hear a film. Not always an easy thing due to the privileging of vision when experiencing cinema. Once we can start to more clearly listen to and hear films we can then start learning the methods used to construct the sound space for your own works.

Mode of study:

Class lectures involve watching excerpts or full length films and discussing them both from technical and aesthetic perspectives; students provide their own comments related to films they suggest as a catlyst for classrooom discussion; watching of video tutorials as a basis for learning software; theoretical texts used as a basis for lecture material.

Prerequisites and co-requisites:

None.

Recommended optional programme components:

No

Course contents:

A theoretical & practical course in creating the digital sound space for film & video. The course will focus on the fundamentals of using sound to furnish meaning, whether for narrative, documentary or abstract works. We will follow the thread of production through the various elements that comprise a soundtrack, based on our real time limitations and available tools. Basic precepts, tips and tricks: from conception to sound capture to edit to mix to output - via the building blocks of the soundtrack including dialogue, narration, music, foley, ambient sound, and most importantly sound effect/sound design. We will work in the Final Cut and Soundtrack programs.

Recommended or required reading:

Readings, bibliography & URLs, DVD examples will be provided.

Audio-Vision, Michel Chion

Sound Theory Sound Practice, Rick Altman ed.

www.filmsound.org

video tutorials provided on the FAMU Int. computer (editing room E1)

Planned learning activities and teaching methods:

Depending on particular public events corresponding with classes, film screenings might be suggested.

Assessment methods and criteria:

Class attendance & participation - 10%

Brief analysis of a short section of a film you bring to class - 10%

2 page analysis of a film watched in class - 20%

2 short sound exercises (1. sound recording / 2. sound editing) - 30%

Final exam - 30%

Course web page:

Note:

Class 1. theory & elements of the soundtrack

Introduction: how sound is represented in film; dialogue, narration, music, foley, ambient sound, sound effect/sound design.

Class 2. the sound event & the digital audio file + film aesthetics

basic introduction to sound, acoustics, digital audio, file formats + examples from films

Class 3. microphones & recorders

Hard disc recording equipment, microphone selection and use, patterns, types, accessories, handling in the studio and on location

Class 4. full feature film presentation

Class 5. studio & location recording

studio recording - dialogue, foley, effects

location recording - lavalier mics, boom technique, location tips

Class 6. Final Cut Audio

basic to intermediate audio in Final Cut Pro (depending on level of students)

Class 7. signal processing

EQ, reverb, compression explained

Class 8. Soundtrack Program

audio in Soundtrack (Mac program) -> beyond Final Cut

Class 9. Creative approaches to sound design

techniques and examples from the worlds of experimental, electroacoustic and 20th century classical musics and extraordinary film soundtracks

Class 10. Mixing & Mastering

mixing multiple audio tracks, creating the filmic sound space, outputting your soundtrack/mastering

Class 11. Course Summary

review of course materials

Class 12. Final Exam

Exam covers all aspects of course material, technical and aesthetic

Further information:

This course is an elective for all students of this school

Schedule for winter semester 2012/2013:

The schedule has not yet been prepared

Schedule for summer semester 2012/2013:

The schedule has not yet been prepared

The subject is a part of the following study plans:

• Audiovizuální studia - bakalář (qualification subject)
• Fotografie EN - bakalář (optional subject)
• Fotografie EN - magistr (optional subject)
• Audiovizuální studia - magistr (qualification subject)
• Cinema and Digital Media - Cinematography (qualification subject, optional subject)
• Cinema and Digital Media - Screenwriting (optional subject)
• Cinema and Digital Media - Directing (qualification subject, optional subject)
• Cinematography (optional subject)