aidemia--modules-courseplan_type	Create a plan of a course
Which subject	Music
What age group	Year or Grade 8
What topic	Technology and Its Influence on Music
Number of lessons	30
Split into modules
Add goal and aims
Add intro
Add references
Any other preferences	Students study how technology has changed music through the introduction of amplification, the move from vinyl to records to CDs and digital media, composers who test the boundaries with technology, and looping / layering devices. Students will explore digital platforms for music making. Students will extend on their knowledge of structure, textures and layering through an in-class scaffolded composition task, Focusing on concepts: Structure, Texture, Dynamics and Expressive techniques.

Course Plan: Technology and Its Influence on Music

Course Overview

This Year 8 Music course explores the profound impact of technology on music, from the introduction of amplification to the evolution of media formats and contemporary digital music creation. Students will investigate the relationship between music and technology and engage in hands-on activities that foster creativity and compositional skills.

Course Goals

• To understand the historical evolution and technological advancements in music.
• To explore the creative potential of technology in music composition and production.
• To develop skills in music composition and analysis, focusing on structure, texture, dynamics, and expressive techniques.

Course Aims

1. Investigate how technology has changed music production and consumption.
2. Analyze various media formats and their impacts on music.
3. Experiment with digital tools for music composition.
4. Create an original piece using knowledge of structure, texture, and technology in music.

Course Modules and Lessons

Module 1: Historical Perspectives on Music Technology

1. Lesson 1: Introduction to Music Technology

   • Overview of the course and learning objectives.
   • Discussion on students' prior knowledge of music technology.

2. Lesson 2: The Birth of Amplification

   • Explore the history and impact of amplification on live music.

3. Lesson 3: From Vinyl to Digital

   • Discuss the evolution of audio formats: vinyl records, cassette tapes, CDs, and streaming.

4. Lesson 4: Case Study: The CD Era

   • Analyze the cultural impact of the CD on music consumption and distribution.

5. Lesson 5: Streaming Services and the Future of Music

   • Evaluate the role of platforms like Spotify and Apple Music.

Module 2: Technology and Composition

6. Lesson 6: Introduction to Digital Music Creation

   • Overview of digital audio workstations (DAWs) and software available.

7. Lesson 7: Looping and Layering Techniques

   • Explore the concepts of looping and layering in composition.

8. Lesson 8: Adapting Traditional Instruments with Technology

   • Investigate how instruments have evolved with technology (e.g., electric guitar, MIDI).

9. Lesson 9: Beginners' Guide to Sound Editing

   • Hands-on session using sound editing software for basic editing tasks.

10. Lesson 10: Understanding Music Structure

    • Analyze various musical structures and their relevance in contemporary music.

Module 3: Contemporary Music & Technology

11. Lesson 11: Composers Pushing Boundaries

    • Explore the work of contemporary composers using technology (e.g., Brian Eno, Björk).

12. Lesson 12: Popular Genres and Technology

    • Investigate genres heavily influenced by technology such as electronic, hip-hop, and pop.

13. Lesson 13: The Role of Technology in Music Marketing

    • Discuss how artists promote their music through social media and digital platforms.

14. Lesson 14: Technology in Live Performances

    • Learn about the use of technology in stage design and sound engineering.

15. Lesson 15: Guest Speaker Session

    • Invite a local musician or producer to discuss their use of technology in music.

Module 4: Hands-On Composition Project

16. Lesson 16: Introduction to the Composition Task

    • Provide guidelines for the in-class scaffolded composition task.

17. Lesson 17: Developing Themes and Ideas

    • Brainstorm and plan musical themes for compositions.

18. Lesson 18: Textures and Dynamics in Composition

    • Explore the use of texture and dynamics through listening and analysis.

19. Lesson 19: Layering Sounds and Effects

    • Workshop on layering techniques using chosen software.

20. Lesson 20: Composition Check-in

    • Peer evaluation and feedback session on works-in-progress.

Module 5: Finalizing and Presenting Compositions

21. Lesson 21: Final Editing Techniques

    • Tips and tricks for polishing compositions before final submission.

22. Lesson 22: Preparing for Performance

    • Discussion on how to prepare compositions for presentation.

23. Lesson 23: Presentation Skills

    • Training on delivering engaging presentations and performances.

24. Lesson 24: Rehearsal and Feedback

    • Group rehearsal sessions to practice presentations and provide feedback.

25. Lesson 25: Final Composition Due

    • Submit final compositions and prepare for presentations.

Module 6: Reflection and Discussion

26. Lesson 26: Presentations by Students

    • Students share their final compositions with the class.

27. Lesson 27: Peer Feedback

    • Provide constructive feedback on presentations.

28. Lesson 28: Reflection on Technological Impact

    • Discuss what students learned about technology’s role in music.

29. Lesson 29: Current Trends and Future Directions

    • Explore emerging technologies in music (AI, VR music experiences).

30. Lesson 30: Course Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    • Review key concepts and discuss applications of learned skills in future studies.

References

1. Latham, S. (2017). The Evolution of Music Technology: A Historical Overview. Music & Technology Journal, 12(3), 145-162.
2. Bourne, T. (2020). Understanding Music Composition in the Digital Age. Melbourne: Music Press.
3. Hartmann, M. (2018). Music and the Media: The Impact of Technology on Music Platforms. Australian Journal of Music Education, 54(4), 78-91.
4. Schedl, M., & Huber, P. (2019). Creating Music with Technology: Tools and Techniques. Sydney: Music Innovations.
5. Singleton, L. (2021). The Future of Music: Trends in Composition and Technology. Australian Music Research Journal, 5(1), 30-50.

This course is designed to correspond with the Australian curriculum for Year 8 Music, preparing students for both practical and theoretical applications of technology in music.