Location Sound - MUS00149H

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Module summary

This practical module will consider sound recording on location (i.e. outside of the studio environment) and associated post-production techniques and workflows for a range of projects including sound for picture.

Module will run

Occurrence	Teaching period
A	Semester 1 2023-24

Module aims

Sound recording on location, as distinct from studio recording, is a practice that provides a lot of the audio that we experience today. This module will explore key aspects of this practice including dialogue recording for TV, film, and radio, as well as field recording techniques for audio soundscapes, site-specific audio work, and special effects.

The module will consider all aspects of the process from project planning and equipment selection, to associated post-production workflows and delivery specifications for various platforms.

Ideas and techniques will be introduced in lectures and there will be group practical sessions on each aspect covered. Key works from a variety of productions utilising location sound will be analysed and discussed.

Module learning outcomes

By the end of the taught part of the project you should:

•     have a good understanding of the use of various different microphones in non-studio based environments
•     have a good understanding of professional workflows as they pertain to location sound recording
•     have a good understanding of professional workflows in post-production
•     be able to sync sound with camera
•     be able to identify and analyse different techniques in professional location sound recording

On completion of the module, in your independent work, you should demonstrate learning outcomes C1-6: https://www.york.ac.uk/arts-creative-technologies/information-for-staff-and-students/music-learning-outcomes/

Indicative assessment

Task	% of module mark
Essay/coursework	10.0
University - project	90.0

Special assessment rules

None

Additional assessment information

The project (90%) will take the form of either:

Option 1: a portfolio of 4 directed pieces of work of 5-8 mins (indicative length) each. The module tutor will set the four areas, which may include, e.g. dialogue, sound effects, editing to picture, promenade audio work. 

Option 2: one larger project c.20-30 min (indicative length, to be agreed with module tutor on a case-by-case basis) from the project area.

The project must be accompanied by a commentary (10%).

Indicative reassessment

Task	% of module mark
Essay/coursework	10.0
University - project	90.0

Module feedback

You will receive written feedback in line with standard University turnaround times.

Indicative reading

TBC