Cool Video

Check out this video about the "Amen Break", a four-bar drum break from a 1969 recording that became a staple in rap, jungle, and drum and bass music.

Amen Break

MIDI this week

I have posted a revised version of the Automation Project on my Learning Web page (in the Assignments Folder). Please download it and print it out. Email me with any questions. The Automation Project is due the week of Nov. 22 as follows:

Sunday Class: Nov. 22

Monday/Wednesday Class: Nov. 23

Tuesday/Thursday Class: Nov. 24

We will not have MIDI classes on Wednesday or Thursday of that week due to Thanksgiving. Please get your projects in on time so you can enjoy the holiday!

MIDI this week

Your Mid Term Project is due this week. Please come to class ready to burn to CD. Bring what you need: Your completed project on your USB drive, blank CD(s), permanent marker for labeling CD, and jewel case or sleeve (optional but recommended).

We will begin learning about Automation in DP this week. Some pretty cool features so be ready to learn!

There will be a 2-part Automation Lab which you will have 1 week to complete.

MIDI Week 8

Your JV 1010 Labs are due this week. Also we will be finishing taking Quiz 1 in class.

This week you will be starting a new project. You will have 2 weeks to complete it. You can download the project on my Learning Web page in the Assignments folder (Mid Term Project).

Also we will be learning to burn your last projects to audio CD, so you can play them on any CD player. Please bring your project on your USB drive, plus a blank CD.

We will also be learning more about using Digital Performer. You can download Digital Performer 4 on my Learning Web page in the Handouts folder.

International Songwriting Competition

You may want to check this out. Cash prizes, famous judges.

International Songwriting Competition

MIDI Week 7

This week I will be returning your Projects (Juno or Drums). I am happy that most were very well done! We will be listening to some of the best in class this week.

If you have not turned in your Project yet, get it in ASAP. You are losing points for each class period!

This week I will also be starting to give you Quiz 1. It is a hands-on, one-on-one demonstration of the skills we have covered so far. I will do as many as time permits each day this week and next after the instruction period. For a preview of the Quiz, go to my Learning Web page, it is in the folder marked "Tests and Quizzes". Make sure you understand how to do each item on the list.

We will also be working with the JV 1010 sound module on the workstations, and learning some more advanced features of DP.

Next week you will begin Project 2.

MIDI Week 6

Your Projects are due this week. Please bring a blank CD-R to class and a permanent marker, and preferably a jewel case or sleeve. We will be burning your project to CD in class using Toast Titanium software. We will also be learning more about DP, and preparing for the first hands-on quiz.

Sunday Class: I have been called out of town, but your class will still meet. MIDI Ninja Mike Tristan will lead the class and collect your projects.

MW Class: Monday class is cancelled, SORRY! Your projects will be due on Wednesday.

TTh Class: Your class will meet as scheduled.

MIDI Week 5

This week in MIDI we will be learning some additional features of Digital Performer including the Mixer View and Auto Record.

We will also be discussing the Rhythm Grid and how to produce different grids in DP.

We will take our first look at Toast Titanium, the CD/DVD burning software we will use to burn your projects to CD. You do not need blank CDs this week, but if your project is finished, you could bring them and burn to disc now.

Your Projects are due next week, so I will be giving you some time in class and answering questions.

If you borrowed one of the splitters and forgot to return it, please bring it back! I am missing a few.

MIDI Week 4

This week I will assign your first Project which you will create in Digital Performer using sounds from the Juno D. You will have your choice of 2 projects, and can choose the one you would prefer.

We will be reviewing the skills you will need to complete the project, and learn a few more you will also need.

You should read Chapter 1 in the textbook and complete the chapter review at the end. We will also be reviewing that material in class.

I will post the new materials on my Learning Web page this week.

MIDI Week 3

This week we will be learning some new skills in Digital Performer which will equip you for next week's first major project. Remember to bring in your USB flash drive and headphones (any kind are OK-- I have adapters you can borrow if you need them).

We will continue with the Listening Assignment. Please bring in your song and completed assignment sheet if you haven't already.

We will go over some music fundamentals from this site: MusicTheory.net

We will also start reading in the textbook. Please read chapter 1 and complete the chapter review at the end of the chapter. You will turn in your review answers for a grade.

You can download and print all the materials that I have handed out in class so far from my Learning Web page. Please bookmark it.

See you in class!

MIDI Week 2

This week in MIDI we will be learning to use Digital Performer to create multi-track sequences.

We will also be listening to music that you bring in. Remember to choose 1 song, and fill out the Listening Assignment sheet. CDs are preferred, but we should be able to listen to any media you bring in.

This week you will need your stereo headphones (with both 1/4" and 1/8" plugs) and your USB drive.

Also make sure to order or purchase your textbook. We will begin using it next week.

See you in class!

Welcome to MIDI 1 Fall 09

Please bookmark this page. I will update about once per week, and let you know what we will be doing in class. I'll also post reminders about assignments, and links you may find interesting and informative.

I suggest registering for a google account so you can post comments and/or questions here.

Also please check out my HCC Learning Web page. It will contain downloadable files of the Syllabus, handouts, and all assignments.

Please get your textbook, USB flash drive, and headphones as soon as possible and bring them to class every day.

This week we will have an introduction to MIDI 1 and take our first look at Digital Performer.

See you in class!

MIDI Week 7

This week in MIDI we will take an introductory look at LOGIC Pro. It is really fun to work with, and I know you will enjoy using it. BE THERE!

I have also put the Final Project Assignment and Final Exam up on the Learning Web, so if you did not get them in class (or need an extra copy) you can download and print out there.

Check with me this week to make sure that you are up to date with all assignments.

See you in class!

MIDI Week 6

This week you will be turning in your Mid Term Projects and MIDI Files Lab. You will have time at the beginning of class to burn your project to CD, and we will review Toast Titanium. Remember to bring blank CDs, markers, and jewel cases or sleeves.

We will also be learning one of the coolest features in DP: Automation!

MIDI Week 5

I hope you had an enjoyable and relaxing 4th of July. Now we will get right back to work!

I will return your Drum Projects at the beginning of class this week. Most were excellent, and I see you have learned the skills we have covered this far.

We will be reviewing DP skills in preparation for Quiz 1, a hands-on, one-on-one demonstration which you will take at the end of class this week.

We will also review the topics we covered last week including Overdub, Drum Window, Tools, Auto Record, Mixer View, Meter Change, Tempo Change, Markers and more.

We will be learning a few more features of DP including the QuickScribe view.

You will have some time to work on your Mid Term Projects and ask questions.

During the final hour you will individually meet with me to take Quiz 1.

See you in class!

The Rhythm Grid

In case you'd like to review the Rhythm Grid concepts, I posted a video on YouTube.

The Rhythm Grid.

Check it out. If you have questions or comments, post them here or email me.

Nevermind!

My new HCC blog was acting squirrelly, so I deleted it. I'll let you know when I iron out the bugs. For now, check in here, but do use the Learning Web site for printing out assignments and handouts.

Aric Nitzberg's Learning Web Page

MIDI Week 3, Continued

We have a lot to cover this week in class, largely because there will be no class next week as it is a national holiday (July 4th)! Please be on time and come prepared to learn!

We will be listening to music, using Toast Titanium to burn data CDs, learning some more advanced features of DP, and exploring a second sound module, the JV 1010. I will be announcing Quiz 1, and assigning the Mid Term Project.

You will be turning in your Drum Lab, so bring your finished project files, blank CDs, jewel case of CD sleeve, and permanent marker.

See you in class!

New HCC Midi 1 Blog

I have started a new Blog on the HCC Learning Web Site here. For the time being I will maintain both sites, but my goal will be to migrate to the HCC site and keep it all "in house"! Please bookmark my HCC Learning Web page. You can use it to access and print out classroom handouts, assignments and test materials.

MIDI Week 3, Drum Projects

Your Drum Projects are due this week (6/27) at the beginning of class. We will be burning them to CD in class. If you are having any problems or have any questions, you may post them here, or contact me directly via email, phone or text.

Remember to bring blank CD(s), sleeve or jewel case, and a permanent marker. Also bring your own headphones with 1/4" jack, and your USB drive to every class.

If we did not listen to your Listening Assignment last week, bring it this week.

Apple Tutorials

If you want some more info about using Mac OS X, try the online Tutorials at apple.com.

Intro to OS X

Finder Tutorial

Music Theory Link

In order to get the most out of DP, some music theory is very helpful! I highly recommend MusicTheory.net. It has clear, interactive lessons on notation, rhythms, time signatures, and more. Check it out:

MusicTheory.net

MIDI Week 2

This week we will be learning more features of Digital Performer, and beginning work on a new project.

You will need:

• Stereo Headphones with 1/4" jack
• USB Memory Drive
• Notebook or binder to keep handouts

Please read chapter 1 in the textbook.

See you in class!
 

MIDI 1 Summer Session

Welcome to MIDI 1 Summer! I hope you are ready to get started learning about MIDI and creating some synth-based music. We will be meeting every Saturday, from 9AM till 3PM. Don't worry, we will be taking breaks, including a lunch break. 

Please bookmark this site and check it every week. I will be posting information about the class like assignments, video links, etc. I also encourage you to post questions or comments here.

This Week's Links:

Here are links to videos we will mention or watch in class. Check them out!

Early Synths:

Theramin:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wph6wGwPn9M&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mW0B1sipLBI&feature=related

 Ondes Martenot

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yy9UBjrUjwo

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IA00Wug6uyc&feature=related

 

Moog:

Monkees

http://www.synthtopia.com/content/tag/walter-carlos/

 

70s Art Rock

Yes Rick Wakeman

 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5kZyI3JYJvY

 

80s Synth-Pop

Eurythmics: Sweet Dreams http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QQHrspjw4aA

Duran Duran: Rio http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q7VjrW5zgqQ&feature=related

Thomas Dolby: Science http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2IlHgbOWj4o

It's Over! Grades Posted

I have posted grades for MIDI 1. If you have any questions or concerns about your grade, contact me ASAP.

I hope you had an enjoyable semester and learned something  about MIDI and Digital Performer. Have a great summer and I hope to see you in the Fall.

LWOC!!

That's right, it's the Last Week of Classes! We will be using this week to work on your projects. I will also be giving the Final Exam to those who choose to take the exam rather than complete a project.

Make sure you have turned in all your assignments for the semester before the last day of class. Check with me if you are not positive.

If you have not brought in a song for the Listening Assignment, bring it this week, and we will listen in class! 

Final Exam Schedule

Remember you have 2 choices for your MIDI 1 Final. You may either complete the Final Project or take the Final Exam. 

If you choose to take the Exam, you  may take it during class next week or during the regularly scheduled Final Exam time. I will have sign up sheets for all available times to take the final, both in class and during finals week. The times will be first come, first served.

Final Exam during Finals Week for MW class will be 11:00AM Monday May 11th. 

Final Exam during Finals Week for TTh class will be 3:00PM Tuesday May 12th. 

MIDI this week

This week I will hand out the Final Projects and Final Exam. You will be able to choose one to complete for your Final. Projects will be due the last day of regular classes (May 6th for MW class and May 7th for TTh class). Final Exams will be one on one during the last week of class, or during our regular Final Exam time according to the Final Exam schedule. I will announce that date and time in class, and update this blog.

We will also review and cover all the materials on the final, so please attend so you will know what is expected. 

Also note that there will be no extensions past the due date for projects and exams!! I have a hard deadline for submitting final grades. 

MIDI Week 12

This week in MIDI we will continue learning about automation in Digital Performer. I will also assign the Automation Lab on Wednesday and Thursday. Be sure to come to class as we will be covering information you will need to complete this lab.

MIDI Week 9

I hope you all had a great Spring Break! 

Remember, your Mid Term Projects are due this week in class, by Wednesday for MW class, and Thursday for TTh class. Please check the assignment carefully to insure that you meet all the requirements. I will not supply blank CDs this time, so bring your own.

If you have not brought in some music for us to listen to in class, please do that this week. Also see me if you are missing any other assignments so that you can make plans to complete them. 

We will be spending some time in the textbooks over the next few weeks, so please bring them to class.

MIDI Week 8

This week I will have handouts that give step by step explanations of some of the DP features we have learned recently, including Auto Record, Mixer View, Conductor Track, Meter Change, Tempo Change, Velocity, Split Notes, and Markers. 

You should also be working on your JV 1010 Lab and Mid Term Project. I will give you time in class to work on these and answer questions. Be sure to have me check your JV 1010 Lab off when you finish it. 

The Mid Term Project is due after Spring Break, on March 25th for Monday/Wednesday class, and March 26th for Tuesday/Thursday class. You will need to turn in your project during class on that day to receive full credit. I will not supply blank CDs or marker pens, so have your own. 

Remember to save your projects as the entire project folder! 

See you in class.

MIDI Week 7

This week we will be learning a few new DP skills. I will return your Drum Lab grades (if you didn't get them yet). And I will assign the Mid Term Project. 

We'll also document any issues we are still having with the workstations. My goal is to get all the stations operational in both the MIDI Lab and 704 so we can use our time more effectively.

See you in class!

Famous Sounds

I found this site which describes and gives examples of famous synth and MIDI sounds. The first part is kind of sarcastic and focuses on overused sounds, but the second, longer part is more informative. Check it out!

Famous Sounds

MIDI Week 6

Monday/Wednesday class, your Drum Lab Projects are due on Monday. Please bring them to class. I am willing to spend  class time to answer questions and resolve questions.

Tuesday/Thursday class, I have listened to your projects. Most of them are excellent and demonstrate that you are able to use Digital Performer to create MIDI tracks. 

Both classes, you will have Quiz 1 this week on the second class of the week for you (Wednesday and Thursday). The quiz will be an individual, hands on demonstration of the skills we have covered so far. Be sure to get a copy of the Quiz on Monday or Tuesday and bring it on your quiz day. Each of you will come to the classroom for about 5 minutes and demonstrate the skills on the list. You will also need to bring your list of sounds from the Juno D Lab! If you do not have it, please get a blank copy and redo the lab, and bring it to the Quiz.

See you in class!

MIDI Week 5

First of all, remember that HCC is closed on Monday, February 16th for President's Day. Enjoy some time off!

 I assigned the Drum Lab last week, and told you it would be due this week. Tuesday/Thursday class, your labs are still due this Thursday, Feb. 19th. Monday/Wednesday class, I am extending your due date to Monday, February 23rd. This will give you time to ask questions and troubleshoot problems before having to turn them in.

All classes, please bring a blank CD-R or 2 to class this week. We will learn how to use Toast Titanium, the CD burning software we have on the MIDI lab computers.

We will also be learning some more ways to use DP, so come to class!

Also, if you have not brought in a song for us to listen to and turned in the Listening Assignment, please do it this week.

Finally, remember to complete the Juno Lab and have me check it off. There are a few of you who have not done this yet. SAVE THE LAB. You will need to reference it for Quiz 1 next week. 

See you in class!

Beatles Rooftop Concert

From 1969. If you have never seen this, it is worth watching!

http://veoh.com/videos/v254009KXqmsZdc

Nothing to do with MIDI, just great music IMO.

MIDI Week 3

This week we will be listening to music you bring in for the Listening Assignment. If possible, please bring in your song on an audio CD, as we do not have the other formats worked out yet.

 We will also be recording MIDI using DP, and learning more features. 

You should have your textbook by now. Please read Chapter 1 and go over the review at the end of the chapter. 

Your Juno D Lab is due this week on the second day you meet (Wednesday or Thursday). I will be checking the assignment off. Please save it for future reference, as you will need it again. 

See you in class!

MIDI 1 This Week

This week in MIDI we will review use of the Mac OS X computers, and begin looking at Digital Performer. I will also hand out a Listening Assignment.

Be sure to get your USB drive as soon as possible. You will need that to save your projects.

Here are some links to videos of the Theramin and Ondes Martenot synthesizers I mentioned in class. 

Theramin: The 2nd clip has a Gnarles Barkley cover on Theramin.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wph6wGwPn9M&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mW0B1sipLBI&feature=related

Ondes Martenot: The 2nd clip is all in French, but has brief segment of Radiohead.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yy9UBjrUjwo

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IA00Wug6uyc&feature=related

See you in class!

Welcome to MIDI 1!

Hello and Welcome to MIDI 1. This will be an informative and  fun class with lots of hands-on experience creating music using the latest digital technology and equipment. 

I will be using this blog to post assignments and information about what we are covering in class. Also links to information that you may find interesting and/or entertaining.

I encourage you to create a google account (if you don't already have one) so that you may post comments and questions here.

See you in class!

Aric Nitzberg

Instructor