In the Workshop portion of Session 12, students build and experiment with a photocell controlled oscillator (see the video of this activity). (Image by MIT OpenCourseWare.)
Instructor(s)
Prof. Christopher Ariza
MIT Course Number
21M.380
As Taught In
Fall 2009
Level
Undergraduate
Course Description
Course Features
Course Description
This course is an investigation into the history and aesthetics of music and technology as deployed in experimental and popular musics from the 19th century to the present. Through original research, creative hands-on projects, readings, and lectures, the following topics will be explored. The history of radio, audio recording, and the recording studio, as well as the development of musique concrète and early electronic instruments. The creation and extension of musical interfaces by composers such as Harry Partch, John Cage, Conlon Nancarrow, and others. The exploration of electromagnetic technologies in pickups, and the development of dub, hip-hop, and turntablism. The history and application of the analog synthesizer, from the Moog modular to the Roland TR-808. The history of computer music, including music synthesis and representation languages. Contemporary practices in circuit bending, live electronics, and electro-acoustic music, as well as issues in copyright and intellectual property, will also be examined. No prerequisites.
Other Versions
Other OCW Versions
This subject explores technologies in relation to musical analysis, composition, performance, culture, and quantitative methods. Topics vary each term.
- 21M.380 Music and Technology: Sound Design (Spring 2016)
- 21M.380 Music and Technology: Recording Techniques and Audio Production (Spring 2012)
- 21M.380 Music and Technology: Live Electronics Performance Practices (Spring 2011)
- 21M.380 Music and Technology: Algorithmic and Generative Music (Spring 2010)