MIS-1 COURSE RESOURCES


There is a vitality, a life force, an energy, a quickening that is translated through you into action, and because there is only one of you in all of time, this expression is unique. And if you block it, it will never exist through any other medium and it will be lost. The world will not have it. It is not your business to determine how good it is nor how valuable nor how it compares with other expressions. It is your business to keep it yours clearly and directly, to keep the channel open...You have to keep yourself open and aware to the urges that motivate you. Keep the channel open...There is a blessed unrest that keeps us marching and makes us more alive than the others.
— Martha Graham


Calendar

  • Monday - In-class performances

  • Wednesday - Recording session

  • Friday - Recording session



Grading for In-Class Performances

1. Technical Proficiency (25 points):

• Accuracy in playing notes, chords, and rhythms

• Mastery of instrument-specific techniques

• Consistent control of dynamics and articulation

2. Musical Expression (20 points):

• Conveyance of emotions and musical expression

• Thoughtful interpretation of the musical piece

• Dynamic and expressive phrasing

3. Stage Presence (20 points):

• Confidence and engagement with the audience

• Effective use of body language and facial expressions

• Interaction with other performers (if applicable)

4. Communication (15 points):

• Clear and effective communication with fellow musicians

• Engagement with the audience through verbal communication (introductions, explanations)

• Ability to adapt to unexpected situations during the performance

5. Preparedness (15 points):

• Adequate rehearsal and preparation for the live performance

• Efficient setup and transition between pieces (if applicable)

• Management of time during the performance

6. Overall Impact (5 points):

• Memorable and impactful performance that resonates with the audience

• Cohesiveness and unity within the musical ensemble (if applicable)


Grading for Studio Vocalists

1. Vocal Technique (30 points):

• Clarity and precision of pitch

• Control of dynamics (volume variations)

• Mastery of vocal registers (head voice, chest voice)

2. Expression and Emotion (25 points):

• Conveyance of emotions appropriate to the song

• Effective use of vocal nuances to enhance emotional impact

• Connection with the lyrics and audience engagement

3. Recording Presence (20 points):

• Consistency in maintaining a balanced sound throughout the recording

• Appropriate microphone technique

• Minimization of extraneous noises or artifacts

4. Studio Etiquette (15 points):

• Preparedness for the recording session

• Ability to take direction from the recording engineer or producer

• Time management during the recording process

5. Adaptability (10 points):

• Ability to adapt to changes in the recording environment or setup

• Flexibility in adjusting performance based on feedback


Grading for Studio Instrumentalists

1. Technical Proficiency (30 points):

• Accuracy in playing notes and rhythms

• Mastery of instrument-specific techniques

• Consistent control of dynamics and articulation

2. Expression and Interpretation (25 points):

• Conveyance of appropriate emotions and musical expression

• Thoughtful interpretation of the musical piece

• Dynamic and expressive phrasing

3. Recording Quality (20 points):

• Clean and well-balanced sound in the recording

• Appropriate use of microphone placement and techniques

• Minimization of unwanted noises or artifacts

4. Collaboration (15 points):

• Ability to collaborate with other musicians (if applicable)

• Responsiveness to direction from the recording engineer or producer

• Effective communication within the recording session

5. Preparedness and Efficiency (10 points):

• Adequate preparation for the recording session

• Efficient use of time during the recording process

• Ability to adapt to changes or unexpected challenges


Grading for Studio Producers

1. Project Management (25 points):

• Effective planning and organization of recording sessions

• Timely completion of tasks and meeting project milestones

• Coordination of resources, including studio time and equipment

2. Communication and Collaboration (20 points):

• Clear and efficient communication with artists, engineers, and other team members

• Ability to provide constructive feedback to enhance the recording process

• Collaboration skills in fostering a positive and creative studio environment

3. Technical Proficiency (20 points):

• Knowledge and application of recording equipment and software

• Skill in utilizing studio tools for sound shaping and editing

• Ability to troubleshoot technical issues during recording sessions

4. Creative Input (15 points):

• Innovative ideas for enhancing the artistic vision of the project

• Contribution to the arrangement, instrumentation, and overall sound design

• Demonstrated creativity in problem-solving and decision-making

5. Adaptability (10 points):

• Ability to adapt to changes in the recording process or unforeseen challenges

• Flexibility in accommodating the preferences and styles of different artists

• Resourcefulness in finding solutions to unexpected issues

6. Professionalism (10 points):

• Punctuality and reliability in meeting deadlines

• Respectful and ethical behavior in interactions with artists and team members

• Attention to detail in all aspects of the production process


Grading for Recording Engineers

1. Technical Proficiency (25 points):

• Mastery of recording equipment and software

• Skillful use of microphones, preamps, and other studio gear

• Ability to achieve a clean and balanced sound during recording

2. Signal Flow and Setup (20 points):

• Efficient routing and management of audio signal flow

• Proper microphone placement for optimal sound capture

• Minimization of noise and interference during recording

3. Attention to Detail (15 points):

• Precision in editing and arranging recorded tracks

• Careful management of session files and data organization

• Thorough quality control to identify and address any issues

4. Communication and Collaboration (15 points):

• Effective communication with producers, artists, and other team members

• Collaboration skills in understanding and implementing the artistic vision

• Ability to take direction and provide input during recording sessions

5. Problem Solving (15 points):

• Quick and effective troubleshooting of technical issues

• Resourcefulness in finding solutions to unexpected challenges

• Adaptability to changes in the recording environment or requirements

6. Professionalism (10 points):

• Punctuality and reliability in meeting deadlines

• Respectful and ethical behavior in interactions with artists and colleagues

• Maintenance of a clean and organized studio workspace