Level 3 Sound, Recording and Production
Course Description
Head of Faculty/Teacher in Charge: Mr B. Morrison.
This course offers a hands-on exploration of the art and science behind audio production, equipping students with fundamental skills in recording, mixing, and mastering sound.
Throughout this course, you will dive into the principles of acoustics, and learn to operate industry-standard equipment, as well as software designed for professional recording and music notation. Whether you dream of producing music, mastering film soundtracks, or engineering live events, this course will provide you with a solid foundation to pursue your passion in the dynamic field of sound technology.
As part of this course, we will learn to operate the sound system in the Kaiapoi High School auditorium, which will give students the skills to help with events such as our end-of-term concerts.
Course Overview
What is taught in courses varies from year to year. This course could include:
In this course, we will cover an introduction to sound technology by working through four unit standards.
Live Sound
In this standard, students will learn to set up gear for a live performance in the Kaiapoi High School Auditorium, and learn how to use our state-of-the-art sound system to create a sound mix for a live band.
MiDi
In this standard, students will learn to create music digitally using a Digital Audio Workspace. They will learn the basics of how to use this technology, and use it to create their own short songs.
Music Notation
In this standard, students will learn the basics of how to use music notation software, they will then use the software to notate a section of a song.
Music Tech Research
In this standard, students will learn about the history of sound technology, and then choose a topic within the subject of sound technology to conduct research on. How the research is presented is decided by the student, with guidance from the teacher.
Recommended Prior Learning
No previous musical knowledge is required, but an interest in music, sound, and computers is essential. NCEA Level 1 is an advantage.
Credit Information
You will be assessed in this course through all or a selection of the standards listed below.
External
NZQA Info
Research, develop and apply a stage lighting design concept for a given work
NZQA Info
Select and apply a range of processes to enhance sound in a performance context
NZQA Info
Operate a music sequencing application
NZQA Info
Operate a music notation application
NZQA Info
Music Studies 3.10 - Research a music topic
Click on a career pathway tag to explore more....
Animator/Digital Artist, Diversional and Recreational Therapist, Actor, Advertising Specialist, Art Director (Film, Television or Stage), Artistic Director, Film and Video Editor, Sound Technician, Dancer, Film/Television Camera Operator, Musician, Director (Film, Television, Radio or Stage), Radio Presenter, Media Producer, Production Assistant (Film, Television, Radio or Stage), Lighting Technician, Game Developer, Private Teacher/Tutor,
Disclaimer
Please note that courses will go ahead only if student numbers, staffing, and timetabling allow it. Where a subject is oversubscribed, and there are insufficient numbers or resources to create an extra class, a ballot system may be applied.
Costs
The Board of Trustees has again asked to opt into the Ministry of Education donation scheme. Doing so resulted in the ability to waive student fee donations. Kaiapoi High School aims to deliver quality educational courses over and above those that which is funded by the Ministry. It is likely the School will opt into the donation scheme for 2025, however parental contribution for the costs of trips and activities where participation is optional, and/or components not covered by the Government grant, may be requested. We appreciate the financial support our families make to the School.