Course Outline

Despite recessionary times, the audio industry is still thriving whether it be in Live sound, Music production, Film sound production or audio for the many broadcast media outlets such as Radio, TV or the Internet. Our sound engineering and music production courses are designed to give students the ultimate in practical learning and to provide them with all the essential skills needed to make a successful career in this exciting and progressive industry. Structured into three progressive modules, this course will cover all you need to know whether you’re into studio recording, live sound or producing your own music.


Career options
On successful completion students can develop careers in numerous areas of the audio industry.

Employment areas include: Music venues, Theatres, Audio equipment retailers, Outside broadcast facilities, Rehearsal studios, Sound hire and installation companies, Recording studios, Film sound studios, Location sound recording, Games production studios, Radio and T.V. studios, Multimedia production companies, Educational institutions.


Who should apply

Ideally applicants should have successfully completed their education to Leaving certificate standard. We will however consider all applications as success in this field is mainly due to natural talent, enthusiasm and hard work! All applicants will be invited for interview.


Course main topics

Module 1

In this module students will be introduced to the principles of sound and the essential equipment components of a recording or live sound sound system

  1. •    Sound and electrical principles

  2. •    System connections

  3. •    Mixing consoles layout and operation

  4. •    Amplifiers and speakers

  5. •    Microphones and D.I. techniques

  6. •    Equalisation


Module 2

In this module students will be introduced to more advanced sound processing techniques as well

as digital audio technology


  1. •    Dynamic signal processors

  2. •    Effects processors

  3. •    Stereo Microphone techniques

  4. •    Digital audio technology

  5. •    Multitrack recording (Pro Tools)

  6. •    Introduction to Live sound set-up


Module 3

In this module students will choose between concentrating on Live Sound technology

or Recording and Music Production technology.


Option 1 - Live Sound Technology

  1. •    Soldering and wiring - basic maintenance/repairs

  2. •    Health & Safety for sound industries

  3. •    Venue/PA analysis

  4. •    Event production and stage management

  5. •    Work experience


Option 2 - Recording and Music production

  1. •    Recording session practice

  2. •    Music theory essentials

  3. •    Music genre analysis

  4. •    Composing with Midi technology

  5. •    Synthesis and sampling

  6. •    Mixing and mastering techniques


Note: Course content and structure may be revised as deemed appropriate by the school


N.B. Optional Pro Tools and Logic modules also available


Qualifications awarded

On successful completion of the course you will receive the following qualifications:


City & Guilds Level 3 Award - Live Sound and Performance Technology

OR

City & Guilds Level 3 certificate - Multitrack recording and composition


Course duration and attendance

Course duration is approximately 30 weeks. You will be required to attend 12 to 16 hours each week

minimum. Attendance requirements will vary depending on course topics being covered and course options taken.


Note: Students may complete both Live and Studio options during Module 3 subject to additional attendance and fees*



Work experience and assignments

Event production and recording sessions will form an important part of course assignments depending on the module options chosen. Students will be required to complete these assignments outside of normal class hours. We will assist students in organising these assignments. We also strongly encourage students to seek out their own work experience opportunities as the ability to self-promote and make contacts is an extremely important factor in developing a successful career in this industry.


Course fees

The course fee is €3,750 plus City & Guilds exam fee of €125. A deposit of €250 is required on application (refundable in the case of an unsuccessful application)

  1. *Completion of both Live and Studio options - €4,650 plus exam fee of €250


Note: 3 part installment plan available


Student finance

Student loans are available from financial institutions such as credit unions at reduced rates. If you are on social welfare you should be able to retain your benefits while attending the course. To find out more check out www.welfare.ie

The Back to Education allowance (BTEA) is unavailable to students attending private colleges, however you may qualify for the Technical Employment Support Grant (TESG). To find out more you should speak to your local Employment Support Officer or contact Fás.

 

Practical training

City & Guilds certified

Work experience

Flexible payments

Industry recognised

Avid product discounts

Apple product discounts

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