Handbook

Sound Foundations is an introductory Level 2 course in the Bachelor Of Media Arts (Hons). It offers a broad-based practical introduction to the fundamental aspects of sound practice in the arts, resulting first in the creation of a standalone sound work. A research proposal then leads to the creation of the audio component of a multi-media artwork such as a screen-based media work; an installation; or a performance.

You will learn to record, edit, relocate, synthesise and resample sound; and examine the altered perceptions and meanings of sound acquired through these recontextualisations. You will then experiment with sequencing sound over time with regard to frequency, space, acknowledged contexts and repetition/rhythm. There is a central focus on how the recontextualisation and manipulation of sound over time differs from the manipulation and sequencing of the image; which will enable you to create audiovisual works rather than simply "adding" sound to image. 

This course works in tandem with companion courses in video production in the Bachelor of Media Arts. It's also useful for any student involved in audiovisual practice, whether in video, animation, cross-media or installation, in that it clarifies the unique aspects of expressing concepts in sound, thus enabling you to combine these with conceptual expression in other mediums, as well as providing fundamental audio production skills.