Module Identifier DR22110  
Module Title SOUND DESIGN THEORY AND PRACTICE  
Academic Year 2007/2008  
Co-ordinator Mr Nick Strong  
Semester Intended for use in future years  
Next year offered N/A  
Next semester offered N/A  
Pre-Requisite DR23810  
Assessment
Assessment TypeAssessment Length/DetailsProportion
Semester Assessment Assignment: The presentation of a 10 minute soundscape, and a viva with the first and second markers that will be assessed by the following methods: An oral introduction and contextualisation - 10%, An oral presentation of the creative, design and technical process - 20%, A presentation of the soundscape - 50%, A viva - 20%100%
Further details For information on due dates for submission of assessed work, please refer to the departmental web pages at http://www.aber.ac.uk/tfts/duedates.shtml  

Aims

- To introduce and analyse the theory and practice of sound design in modern theatre and performance.
- To introduce and analyse practical sound design methodologies
- To devise, realise and present a soundscape for an agreed space/text/ performance.

Learning Outcomes:

Typically, on completion of the module students should be able:

- To conceive, create and implement a complex and sophisticated sound design for public performance.
- To demonstrate an extensive and integrated understanding of, and response to, the equipment, software, systems and associated operational skills required for the creation, implementation and performance of contemporary theatre or performance sound design.
- To demonstrate a sophisticated understanding and analysis of the creative, research, planning and performance processes and theory relevant to contemporary theatre and performance sound design and, where relevant, its relationship with other elements of design.

Content:

An analysis and review of the major concepts, characteristics, functions of sound in relation to live performance. For example, students will look at how different sounds in a given performance might be classified.

A review and examination of the design and technical requirements for the use of sound in live performance. For example, students will consider how different types of performance will create different challenges and questions for the sound designer, and go on to examine possible methodologies and solutions to resolve them.

Preparation of a soundscape examining and analysing the underlying creative processes, chronology, structure and planning involved. Students will gain significant experience in the use of the relevant equipment, and have an opportunity to use it creatively, emphasising the importance of both imagination and realisation.

Notes

This module is at CQFW Level 5