Computer Music Performance

The Computer Music Performance Certificate prepares students to design and implement computer systems suitable for live electronic music performance.  This17.5-unit certificate will train students how to develop computer performance rigs for a variety of environments such as solo performances, backing tracks for an ensemble, outdoor venues, and performance halls. Students will train on performing live systems they designed and incorporate improvisation to their productions. Students will engage in creating professional audio solutions for these environments while integrating their experience with audio hardware and software systems.

This is a specialized certificate and expected enrollment and completers is 7-10 students each academic year. 

Employers are also seeking students with advanced technical skills who can not only operate the equipment; but install and configure computer systems for live performance. Cerritos College recognizes the need to include curriculum that allows students to acquire these specific technical skill sets. The goal of this program is to provide students with additional and specific training for these opportunities. This certificate builds on traditional live sound skills by training students to provide backing tracks and technical/instrumental support for a music ensemble. Students will be able to incorporate their own musical perspective and become part of the creative process with the ensembles they work with. 

MUS 110 – Music Technology Fundamentals (3 units)

This course is a prerequisite course for Computer Music Production, MUS 142a. This course is required of commercial music majors. The course covers the fundamental vocabulary, techniques, concepts, and devices used in contemporary music production and related media fields. This course covers sound fundamentals, professional audio equipment, computers, music production software, recording studios, MIDI, electronic music, audio-visual productions, and film. Topics such as trade publications, relevant conventions, and employment opportunities are also discussed.

 

MUS 135 – This Business of Music (3 units)

This course focuses on the music business as it relates to the marketplace and job opportunities. It teaches the student about the important jobs in the industry and their duties and responsibilities. Topics include the process of promotion, publicity, management, touring, recording, contracts, accounting, artist relations and development, marketing, advertising, copyrights, and related music fields.

 

MUS 145A – Live Sound Techniques (2.5 units)

This course provides an overview of live concert sound reinforcement. Topics include sound system theory and its application. The course covers individual sound system component operation, including microphones, mixers, effects, power amplifiers, and speaker systems. This course offers opportunities for hands-on experiences in troubleshooting, sound checking, and mixing sound for live performance applications. Students are expected to mix live performances.

 

MUS 142A – Computer Music Production (3 units)

The course prepares the student to use the computer and related music software to create loop-based and sample-based music. The student will learn to configure the computer and software for live performances alone or with music ensemble.

 

MUS 142B – Computer Music Performance (3 units)

This course builds on the material presented in MUS 142a. Students will design and implement computer audio systems for use in real-time music performances. Students will create configurations that enables them to manipulate sound in real-time for improvisatory music performances. Students will integrate hardware synthesizers into their performance rigs. Students will perform original compositions with the computer rigs. Students will also learn how to integrate with live sound systems and develop redundant solutions for live performances.

 

MUS 155 – Music Entrepreneurship (3 units)

This course explores the elements and development of business plans, business structure, finances, marketing, and management fora career in the music industry as a performer, producer, songwriter, or educator. Students will learn entrepreneurial tools particular to the music industry that will assist in creating new ventures and realize a career path. This course explores New Media and online methods for promotion, distribution, and publishing. Students will be required to design a business plan along with a resume for employment.

Course	Title	Units	Year/Semester (Y1 or S1)
MUS 110	Music Technology Fundamentals	3	S1
MUS 135	This Business of Music	3	S2
MUS 142a	Computer Music Production	3	S3
MUS 145a	Live Sound Techniques	2.5	S3
MUS 142b	Computer Music Performance	3	S4
MUS 155	Music Entrepreneurship	3	S4

The Computer Music Performance Certificate is a unique program to Cerritos College. Applied music and commercial music students will find this degree engaging because it combines technology and live performance. This program focuses on skill sets not present in the other certificates.

LACC, Certificate of Achievement in Music Technology ELAC, Certificate of Achievement in Music Technology Rio Hondo College, Certificate of Achievement in Music Production

The Commercial Music program enrolls 20-25 students annually. It is expected that students will complete the certificate to enhance the training they receive from the other degrees offered.