Pro Instrument Producer

1.1 – Introduction to Digital Audio Workstations (Credits: 5)

In this module you will be introduced to the basic features, functions and workflow of DAWs through a practical study of Logic. You will learn how to create templates, record audio and MIDI, manage projects and understand the difference between audio recording and MIDI programming. You will complete weekly assignments that demonstrate DAW proficiency, and at the end of the module there will be a written exam that assess your knowledge of the DAW and technical parameters.

1.2 – Sound Synthesis & Sampling Techniques (Credits: 5)

In this module you will be introduced to the principles of sound synthesis and sampling. You will familiarise with different types of synthesis techniques such as additive, subtractive, granular, and FM. You will create original sounds with different characteristics (pluck synth, pads, lead, bass, etc,.) demonstrating proficiency in using virtual synthesizers and will learn to create and use samples creatively in compositions. You will also be introduced to basic sound processing techniques of EQ, compression and reverb. You will complete weekly assignments, written assessments and a practical assessment to demonstrate your synthesis and sampling proficiency.

1.3 – Music Programming Techniques (Credits: 5)

In this module you will learn to program various virtual instruments and use them in different musical styles. Along with internalising the technicalities of music programming you will also familiarise with the specific musical elements that characterize different genres of music. In-depth study of specific instruments and instrument groups will be conducted each week, focussing on playing style and techniques, and their applications to different genres. Through assignments, you will demonstrate proficiency in composing and programming bass lines, drums and percussions, guitars, strings and brass sections in different styles.

1.4 –  Introduction to Music Production Practices (Credits: 6)

In this module you will be introduced to common music production practices and workflows, giving you the opportunity to demonstrate the application of musical and technical proficiency and skills acquired from previous modules. You will create several tracks under guidance from the module faculty that cover a range of genres. You will acquire basic music arranging, mixing and mastering skills, learn to organize your workflow and coordinate with other musicians to complete recordings of your works in order to meet agreed delivery timelines.

Faculty

Amarnath Hazarika

Amarnath Hazarika

Amarnath is a Guitarist and Composer, currently based in Mumbai, India. Born and brought up in Shillong, Amarnath moved to Boston in 2007, to attend Berklee College of Music, graduating in 2009 with a Bachelors degree in Jazz Composition. During his time here, he had the opportunity to study with world renowned musicians such as Tim Miller, Sal DiFusco, Ken Pullig, Bob Pilkington and Esperanza Spalding.
Amarnath has performed in the United States, Malaysia, Singapore and Vietnam apart from numerous festivals and venues across India like the Delhi International Jazz Festival, The National Centre for Performing Arts – Mumbai, India International Centre – Delhi and The Habitat Centre – Delhi, with artists from across the country. He has also written music for numerous Films and Documentaries, and was notably the Music Director for the National Award winning Assamese film “Kothanodi”. Apart from his performance and composition work, Amarnath also has a passion for Music Education and is also currently teaching at The True School of Music in Mumbai.

Anthony Cammarota

Anthony Cammarota

 

Anthony Cammarota is a Southern California born multi-instrumentalist, composer, and bandleader. At the age of 9 Anthony began studying guitar and performing professionally as a teenager. Developing his passion led him to became a student at the Orange County High School of the Arts where he graduated top of his class as the premier jazz guitarist. After high school, Cammarota relocated to Seattle, Washington in order to study at Cornish College of the Arts where he received his B.M. in Jazz Performance after completing a 4 year undergraduate program. During his time at Cornish he studied jazz & classical guitar, music theory and composition under notable professors such as Dave Peterson, Michael Nicollela, James Knapp and Tom Varner. While in Seattle Anthony began to perform and associate with international musicians such as Bill Frisell, Rudresh Mahanthappa, Peter Bernstein and Wayne Horvitz, which led him to become a bandleader and composer in his own right.

Anthony has performed, composed and recorded music across North America, Europe and Asia, cultivating an extensive academic background and vast professional industry experience. Being equally skilled on both guitar and bass had led him to work with an eclectic variety of performing artists in the jazz, rock, pop, funk, hip-hop and electronic worlds. As both a performer and educator Anthony Cammarota has a deep command of musicianship that defies genres and creates a unique sound of his own.

Gianluca Liberatore

Gianluca Liberatore

Gianluca Liberatore was born in Palermo, Sicily. The Italian island is the major in the Mediterranean sea and it has always been hosting an astonishing mix of cultures. The search for diversity became for Gianluca an important feature in his musical experience.
He started playing the guitar at the age of 12 and the bass guitar at 14. Discovering the music of Bill Evans brought him in contact with jazz music and, consecutively, with double bass playing.
Gianluca studied in Italy at the Brass Group and the Open Jazz School of Mimmo Cafiero, attending masterclasses and having lessons with Harvie S, Reuben Rogers, Eric Revis, Eddie Gomez, Clark Cables, Gregory Hutchinson and others.
In 2010 he moved to the Netherlands, where he studied at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam under the guide of Frans van der Hoeven. In the four years of Bachelor program he got in touch with a variety of genres and musicians. Results of these years of studies and collaborations are performances in a number of festivals in Italy, Germany, Netherlands, Switzerland.
Has performed alongside Ronal Douglas, Deborah Carter, Bob Stoloff during the summer jazz workshop at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam. In 2013 he released a record with the Australian leader, composer and saxophone player Gemma Farrell.
As an educator Gianluca has been teaching bass guitar, double bass, music theory, songwriting, ensembles, and pedagogic subjects.

1.1 – Fundamentals of Piano Practice 1 (Credits: 2)

In this module, you will be introduced to the very fundamentals of piano playing. You will learn to play simple scales and chords adhering to correct tempo, time signature, technique and posture, which will enable you to play common pop song chord progressions with ease. You will also learn to sight read  simple phrases of music on treble and bass clef.

1.2 – Fundamentals of Piano Practice 2 (Credits: 2)

In this module, you will work with technique exercises that will enhance your familiarity with the piano. You will learn how to smoothly transition between chords using inversions and to make simple piano arrangements of select popular songs.

1.3 – Intermediate Piano Practice 1 (Credits: 2)

This module will focus on 7th chords and you will learn how to construct, play and practically apply them in the context of songs. You will learn commonly used jazz chord progressions involving 7th chords and work on exercises that will enable you to fluently play the progression in all keys. You will also conduct a detailed analysis of select jazz repertoire in order to understand functional harmony.

1.4 – Intermediate Piano Practice 2 (Credits: 2)

This module will expand your harmonic and rhythmic knowledge on the piano and  help you make musically rich arrangements. The study will focus on the practical application of all harmonic and rhythmic concepts learnt in the previous terms to develop a portfolio of repertoire, including at least one original composition.

INSTRUMENT TECHNIQUE

These classes focus on tuition on your chosen instrument. It will help you understand your instrument and the techniques used in performing.
For example, drummers will learn stick technique and hand/foot coordination. Guitarists will learn scales, bar chords, fingering techniques (left hand) and strumming techniques (right hand) building harmonic and rhythmic abilities. Bass guitar students will learn right and left hand techniques and rhythm. Vocal students will understand the body as an instrument and how to control breathing and tone. Keyboard students will learn scales, posture and correct hand technique.

Please see Pro Level 1 Performer section for more information on learning outcomes for each instrument.

Faculty

Marios Menelaou

Marios Menelaou

 

Marios Menelaou was born and raised in a tiny Mediterranean island, Cyprus. Laying in the crossroads of three continents, Africa, Asia and Europe, he has been influenced since young age to a variety of musical traditions.

At the age of 13, he was introduced to guitar and later on, at age 16, fell in love with the bass guitar. He started studying intensively with famous Giannos Savvides as well as following jazz workshops and private classed from New York musicians Ari Roland and Chris Byars.

In 2010, Marios moved to the Netherlands and studied Bass guitar in the Conservatory of Amsterdam. There, he learnt new techniques with professors Charty Angenois, Theo de Jong, David de Marez Oyens and Lene te Voorwis . Beyond jazz bass guitar,  Marios also studied four years Karnatic techniques on improvisation and composition.  In his years in Amsterdam, Marios was influenced and fused music from jazz, middle eastern music and african music. In 2015, he was awarded a scholarship at ISI Despensar University in Bali Indonesia where he studied Balinese Gamelan and became a gamelan player.

On his musical journey, Marios met a plethora of genres and musicians and he performed in many festivals such as the Afro Vibes Festival in the Netherlands, Aglagazz, Feggaros in Cyprus and many others in Europe.

In the Netherlands, he has been the founding member of Astrophunk and back in homeland Cyprus, he co-founded the jazz trio Lp3 where their first album “The underdog” was released in November 2017.

Teaching has been an integral part of this journey : he has been providing private lesson in bass guitar, music theory, harmony and ensembles. Has has also been a teacher in the National Conservatory of Cyprus.

1.1 – Ensemble (Credits: 2)

This module will equip you with the fundamental concepts and skills required to perform with a band in a variety of live and studio scenarios. You will learn professional roles and functions of band members, familiarise with live sound equipment, and develop a clear proficiency with regards to performing live music and preparing for a performance. You will also learn to interpret technical and creative guidelines and to prepare technical riders. You will be assessed on weekly progress, on the outcome of a live performance, and through a written exam aimed at developing critical thinking.

1.2 – Ensemble (Credits: 2)

This module will equip you with the fundamental concepts and skills required to perform with a band in a variety of live and studio scenarios. You will learn professional roles and functions of band members, familiarise with live sound equipment, and develop a clear proficiency with regards to performing live music and preparing for a performance. You will also learn to interpret technical and creative guidelines and to prepare technical riders. You will be assessed on weekly progress, on the outcome of a live performance, and through a written exam aimed at developing critical thinking.

1.3 – Ensemble (Credits: 2)

This module will equip you with the fundamental concepts and skills required to perform with a band in a variety of live and studio scenarios. You will learn professional roles and functions of band members, familiarise with live sound equipment, and develop a clear proficiency with regards to performing live music and preparing for a performance. You will also learn to interpret technical and creative guidelines and to prepare technical riders. You will be assessed on weekly progress, on the outcome of a live performance, and through a written exam aimed at developing critical thinking.

1.4 – Ensemble (Credits: 2)

This module will equip you with the fundamental concepts and skills required to perform with a band in a variety of live and studio scenarios. You will learn professional roles and functions of band members, familiarise with live sound equipment, and develop a clear proficiency with regards to performing live music and preparing for a performance. You will also learn to interpret technical and creative guidelines and to prepare technical riders. You will be assessed on weekly progress, on the outcome of a live performance, and through a written exam aimed at developing critical thinking.

Faculty

Marios Menelaou

Marios Menelaou

 

Marios Menelaou was born and raised in a tiny Mediterranean island, Cyprus. Laying in the crossroads of three continents, Africa, Asia and Europe, he has been influenced since young age to a variety of musical traditions.

At the age of 13, he was introduced to guitar and later on, at age 16, fell in love with the bass guitar. He started studying intensively with famous Giannos Savvides as well as following jazz workshops and private classed from New York musicians Ari Roland and Chris Byars.

In 2010, Marios moved to the Netherlands and studied Bass guitar in the Conservatory of Amsterdam. There, he learnt new techniques with professors Charty Angenois, Theo de Jong, David de Marez Oyens and Lene te Voorwis . Beyond jazz bass guitar,  Marios also studied four years Karnatic techniques on improvisation and composition.  In his years in Amsterdam, Marios was influenced and fused music from jazz, middle eastern music and african music. In 2015, he was awarded a scholarship at ISI Despensar University in Bali Indonesia where he studied Balinese Gamelan and became a gamelan player.

On his musical journey, Marios met a plethora of genres and musicians and he performed in many festivals such as the Afro Vibes Festival in the Netherlands, Aglagazz, Feggaros in Cyprus and many others in Europe.

In the Netherlands, he has been the founding member of Astrophunk and back in homeland Cyprus, he co-founded the jazz trio Lp3 where their first album “The underdog” was released in November 2017.

Teaching has been an integral part of this journey : he has been providing private lesson in bass guitar, music theory, harmony and ensembles. Has has also been a teacher in the National Conservatory of Cyprus.

1.1 – Introduction to Music Theory 1 (Credits: 3)

In this module you will learn to read music on the treble and bass clefs individually followed by the grand staff. You will be introduced to all note values starting with whole notes/rests, subdivided upto 16th notes/rests, and you will be taught to identify all intervals within the octave, starting from any note. You will also learn to memorise 12 major and relative minor key signatures with the help of the circle of 5ths.

1.2 – Introduction to Music Theory 2 (Credits: 3)

In this module, you will be taught to derive and notate the diatonic triads from all 12 major and minor keys, including the melodic and harmonic minor scales. You will also learn to build, read and notate individual major, minor, diminished, augmented, sus2 and sus4 triads from any given root, in any inversion. You will be taught to construct and notate closed voicings in any inversions, as well as open voicings in any inversion. You will also learn to voice-lead progressions using closed and open triads.

1.3 – Fundamentals of Harmony 1 (Credits: 3)

In this module you will learn to compose appropriate harmonic progressions to given major and minor key melodies. You will learn the harmonic functions of the diatonic triads in major and minor keys, and how to use functional substitutes. You will learn to apply the passing and auxiliary diminished chords to progressions. You will also be introduced to voice-leading harmonic progressions with triads in 4 parts, in chorale style.

1.4 – Fundamentals of Harmony 2 (Credits: 3)

In this module you will harmonise short melodies upto 4-bars long, in 4-part chorale style. You will learn to analyse 4-part chorales in the style of JS Bach.  You will be introduced to the modes of the major scale and their characteristic notes and cadences. You will then compose a (minimum) 16-bar modal composition with a melody, harmonic progression and bass line using a mode of your choice, and notate the piece on a master score.

1.1 – Ear Training (Credits: 2)

In this module, you will learn to sing the major and minor scales ascending, descending and in 3rds, and learn to find and sing all the intervals of the major and minor scales starting on any note, along with other specific singing exercises. You will learn to aurally recognise the major and minor scales, and all 12 intervals played melodically. You will also learn to read rhythms consisting of whole, half, quarter and eighth notes and rests fluently, and sing major and minor key melodies with these note values. You will also transcribe rhythms up to 4 bars long consisting of whole, half, quarter and eighth notes and rests.

1.2 – Ear Training (Credits: 2)

In this module you will learn to sing major, minor and diminished triads in any inversion. You will learn to aurally recognise the major, natural, melodic and harmonic minor scales, and all 12 intervals played harmonically. You will also learn to aurally recognise major, minor and diminished triads in any inversion, and augmented, sus2 and sus 4 triads in root position. You will also learn to read rhythms consisting of whole, half, quarter, eighth, triplet eighth & 16th notes and rests fluently and will sing major and minor key melodies with these note values. You will also transcribe rhythms up to 4 bars long consisting of whole, half, quarter, eighth, triplet eighth & 16th notes and rests.

1.3 – Ear Training (Credits: 2)

In this module you will learn to sing major, minor and diminished triads in any inversion. You will learn to aurally recognise the major, natural, melodic and harmonic minor scales, and all 12 intervals played harmonically. You will also learn to aurally recognise major, minor and diminished triads in any inversion, and augmented, sus2 and sus 4 triads in root position. You will also learn to read rhythms consisting of whole, half, quarter, eighth, triplet eighth & 16th notes and rests fluently and will sing major and minor key melodies with these note values. You will also transcribe rhythms up to 4 bars long consisting of whole, half, quarter, eighth, triplet eighth & 16th notes and rests.

1.4 – Ear Training (Credits: 2)

In this module you will learn to sing all the modes of the major scale. You will sing major, minor and diminished triads in any inversion and augmented, sus2 and sus4 triads in root position. You will learn to aurally recognise the major, natural, melodic and harmonic minor scales, all the modes of the major scale and all 12 intervals played harmonically. You will also learn to aurally recognise major, minor and diminished triads in any inversion, and augmented, sus2 and sus 4 triads in root position. You will learn to read rhythms consisting of whole, half, quarter, eighth, triplet eighth & 16th notes and rests fluently and sing major and minor key melodies with these note values. You will also transcribe major key melodies up to 4 bars consisting of whole, half, quarter, eighth & 16th notes and rests.

1.1 – History & Context of Global Commercial Music (Credits: 2)

This module traces the origins and development of Jazz and Blues music to their current forms. You will learn the impact of sociopolitical and other historic events such as slavery, World Wars and technological evolution on these genres. You will also familiarise with the popular artists and repertoire of these genres of music.

1.2 – History & Context of Global Commercial Music (Credits: 2)

This module traces the origins and development of Rock n Roll, Crooners and Divas, Gospel and Country music to their current forms. You will learn the impact of sociopolitical and other historic events such as slavery, World Wars and technology on these genres. You will also familiarise with the popular artists and repertoire of these genres of music.

1.3 – History & Context of Global Commercial Music (Credits: 2)

This module traces the origins and development of British Invasion, Soul and American Folk music. You will learn the impact of sociopolitical and other historic events, as well as technological innovations on these genres. You will also familiarise with the popular artists and repertoire of these genres of music.

1.4 – History & Context of Global Commercial Music (Credits: 2)

This module traces the origins and development of Heavy Metal, Funk and Progressive Rock music. You will learn the impact of sociopolitical and other historic events as well as technological innovations on these genres. You will also familiarise with the popular artists and repertoire of these genres of music.

1.1 – Study Skills (Credits: 3)

The study skills module prepares you for college level learning, and develops planning, learning organisation and time management skills. You will learn to make effective lecture notes, improve your reading and research skills, and develop communication skills to present your thoughts, opinions and arguments clearly and accurately using various means (written, verbal, presentations, reflective journals, etc.).

Learning Outcomes:

• Use calendars, prioritisation and time blocking to effectively manage time
• Make effective lecture notes using various digital tools
• Apply active reading and research techniques
• Use reflective journaling and critiquing for self improvement
• Develop communications skills to present thoughts, opinions and arguments clearly and accurately

Faculty

Nilesh Thomas

Nilesh Thomas

 

After gaining a first class degree in Electronics and a diploma in Sound Recording & Engineering, Nilesh started his career as a recording engineer adding numerous songs, commercials and soundtracks to his credit before stepping into academia. He spent 15 years in Malaysia, where he led curriculum design, delivery and quality assurance of undergraduate music courses in partnership with UK universities and Berklee College of Music. During this time he furthered his education to earn a Master of Music Technology (MMusTech) degree with distinction from University of Newcastle, Australia. Nilesh is also an Avid Certified Instructor for ProTools and an Apple Distinguished Educator recognised for the application of technology and innovation in music education. During his academic career in Malaysia, Nilesh remained active in the professional industry and mixed Front of House (FOH) sound and produced a number of live concerts. His professional and academic interests include live sound engineering, acoustics, digital audio, blended learning, learning technologies, and outcome and challenge based learning. Nilesh leads curriculum development, digital learning initiatives, institutional partnerships and academic quality assurance at True School, and teaches live sound engineering courses.

101 sessions

101 sessions are additional learning opportunities outside of your core curriculum that cover a number of relevant topics associated with professional music. You may choose up to two 101 sessions of your interest in each term from the available list.