Digital Audio Processing and Mixing Techniques is an advanced course designed to deepen learners' understanding of audio processing and mixing within a professional digital audio workstation (DAW) environment. Building on the fundamentals learned in previous courses, this module introduces more complex principles of audio processing, such as dynamic control, distortion effects, and reverberation simulation.Students will be guided through the mixing process using multi-track recordings, focusing on key aspects such as balancing, panning, dynamic range control, 2D image placement, automation, and finalising the mix. Throughout the course, practical exercises will reinforce theoretical knowledge, while weekly 'Golden Ear' challenges will develop critical listening skills by requiring students to identify audio processing techniques or diagnose sonic issues in processed audio tracks.The course also introduces advanced sound processing devices, explaining their parameters and how these can be manipulated to achieve specific results. Learners will become proficient in recognising the distinct characteristics of equipment by leading manufacturers and will explore different methods of gain control to understand how different devices are selected for particular tasks.

This course provides an introduction to the physics of electricity, emphasising critical concepts such as Ohm's Law, Watt's Law, and both direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC) theory. These foundational principles equip students with the necessary understanding of basic sound equipment circuits, which is essential for any aspiring sound engineer. The curriculum further explores conventional and switch-mode power supplies, providing insights into their operational characteristics and applications. Students will delve into reactance and filters, which are vital for understanding signal processing in audio systems. The course will also cover operational amplifiers (op-amps) and amplifiers, enabling students to grasp the fundamentals of amplification in audio electronics.

This course provides an introduction to the physics of electricity, emphasising critical concepts such as Ohm's Law, Watt's Law, Kirchhoff's Law, and both direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC) theory. These foundational principles equip students with the necessary understanding of basic sound equipment circuits, which is essential for any aspiring sound engineer. The curriculum further explores conventional and switch-mode power supplies, providing insights into their operational characteristics and applications.Students will delve into filters, including their functions and types, as well as inductive and capacitive reactance, which are vital for understanding signal processing in audio systems.The course will also cover operational amplifiers (op-amps), simple transistor amplifiers, and simple valve amplifiers, enabling students to grasp the fundamentals of amplification in audio electronics.Additionally, the module on field-effect transistors (FETs) will highlight their significance in modern audio equipment. Emphasis will be placed on the advantages of using FETs for high impedance sources, their application in analogue audio switching, and the use of MOS FETs for power amplification.To foster practical skills, students will engage in hands-on activities where they will assemble and test a variety of op-amp circuits on breadboards. Furthermore, they will have the opportunity to build a power amplifier, a direct injection (DI) box, or a microphone, reinforcing their understanding of circuit design and functionality in real-world audio applications.

6ElctrC is the final progression from 6ElctrA and 6ElctrB, giving students the opportunity to design and prototype an original audio‑electronics device of their choice. Working individually, students develop a complete project from proposal to prototype, integrating research, schematic design, component selection, and practical construction on protoboard.The project is student‑driven but supported through structured supervisory check‑ins, including a proposal presentation, two formative debrief sessions, and a final summative presentation. Throughout the process, students refine their design, respond to feedback, and demonstrate their ability to apply audio‑electronics principles to a real‑world circuit.The capstone concludes with a functional prototype, full schematics, and a written report documenting the research foundation, design process, measurements, and analysis. The module prepares learners to apply their technical skills independently and confidently within audio‑technology and electronics‑related fields.

In this course, students will apply the music theory concepts acquired in previous studies to the composition and arrangement of electronic music. The course explores the musical, sonic, and stylistic elements involved in creating beats, songs, and electronic music productions, including the use of virtual instruments and sound design techniques. Students will develop an understanding of how compositional choices influence both the artistic and technical aspects of a production. The course also introduces students to Pro Tools Sketch, covering its features, shortcuts, and workflow methodologies, enabling them to create, organise, and develop musical ideas efficiently within a contemporary production environment.

6MusEMB is a course that expands on the composition & production of electronic music in Pro Tools using skills that you have learned from 6MusEMA and other relevant subjects. We will not only learn more about the technical and theoretical elements of electronic music production but also grow our knowledge of timbral and stylistic choices one would make when producing in certain genres. The course is designed to be largely practical, incorporating real-world production scale projects, scenarios and delivery requirements.

The Capstone Project represents the culmination of the programme and requires students to complete a substantial project within their chosen area of specialisation. The project is designed to integrate and apply the technical, creative, and professional competencies developed throughout the course into a cohesive, industry-aligned body of work.Students will identify a focused area of speciality aligned with their career goals and submit a formal proposal outlining the project’s objectives, methodology, workflow, timeline, and intended outcomes. Once approved, students will take primary responsibility for the planning, execution, and delivery of the project.While the project is largely student-driven, it is conducted under the guidance of an appointed supervisor. The supervisor will provide structured direction, feedback, and milestone reviews to ensure academic rigor, professional standards, and appropriate scope. Students are expected to respond constructively to feedback and demonstrate the ability to refine their work through an iterative process.The final submission will include the completed practical outcome (or equivalent deliverable), supporting documentation of process and workflow, and a critical reflection situating the project within current industry practices.

This course is designed for intermediate students who have completed foundational music theory and keyboard skills. It introduces more advanced theoretical concepts and integrates practical applications to deepen understanding and enhance performance ability.This course progresses music theory from UNISA Grade 4 or ABRSM Grade 5 to UNISA Grade 6 or ABRSM Grade 7 standards.This course also progresses functional keyboard proficiency to UNISA Grade 3 or ABRSM Grade 4.The theory component covers diatonic modes, non-diatonic scales, harmonic and melodic minor scales, and blues scales. Students will study harmonic progressions, voice leading, and extended chords, such as seventh, ninth, eleventh, and thirteenth chords. Lessons also include compound rhythms and their application in various musical styles.The keyboard skills component develops fluency in performing scales, arpeggios, and extended chords. Exercises integrate theoretical knowledge with practical application, focusing on voice leading, and harmonic progressions.Aural training is emphasised throughout the course. Students will develop the ability to perform and identify modes, extended chords, harmonic progressions, and compound rhythms aurally. These exercises strengthen listening skills and enhance musical intuition.By the end of the course, students will confidently apply theoretical concepts to keyboard performance, analyse musical structures, and engage in creative and analytical tasks.

This course is designed for students who have already attained a performance level equivalent to UNISA Grade 4 or ABRSM Grade 5 on their chosen instrument.Students will receive 24 private tuition sessions of at least 30 minutes each, focusing on repertoire, technical exercises, and performance techniques. These sessions are tailored to the student’s instrument and individual needs, ensuring personalised guidance and skill development. The cost of private tuition is over and above normal tuition fees.Regular practice of at least three hours per week over 24 weeks is required, during which students will refine technical accuracy, stylistic interpretation, and expressive delivery.Students will demonstrate their learning through the performance of at least two pieces at a live concert or before a jury. These performances must exhibit technical and interpretative skill at a level equivalent to UNISA Grade 6, ABRSM Grade 7, or equivalent repertoire.This course integrates technical mastery with artistic growth, preparing students for advanced performance opportunities and further musical studies.ABRSM stands for the “Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music”. It is a globally recognised organisation that provides music examinations, assessments, and qualifications for students and teachers. ABRSM is associated with four prestigious UK music conservatoires:Royal Academy of MusicRoyal College of MusicRoyal Northern College of MusicRoyal Conservatoire of ScotlandABRSM offers graded music exams, diplomas, and assessments in music performance and theory, covering a wide range of instruments and styles.

Covers foundational concepts of Audio Post Production theory, including common terminology, sample rates, bit rates, codecs, and basic Audio Post Production Mixing Techniques.Students will learn to implement key concepts, theories, industry-standard practices, and techniques used in Audio Mixing, such as session management, level balance, processing, and the effective use of plug-ins and hardware.The course provides a comprehensive understanding of audio quality, data rates, and the need for compression in production scenarios. Students will also explore various audio file formats, gaining insight into their interchangeability within a typical production chain.Practical work will be conducted using professional digital audio workstations (DAWs), where students will import video and audio assets, organise media, and apply mixing techniques to create and enhance audio projects. Exercises will focus on managing audio levels, applying processing, exporting a final mix, and finalising a basic project.By the end of the course, students will be able to manage, mix, and output broadcast-quality audio using industry-standard post-production workflows. They will also explore how audio processing techniques can enhance the narrative goals of different screen-media genres.

6SouPPB Post Production Theory and Practice 6B builds upon foundational audio post-production skills by exploring advanced techniques and workflows used in professional film, television, and digital media environments.Students will deepen their understanding of dialogue, music, and effects mixing through practical applications of ADR, Foley, sound design, and stereo mixing techniques. Emphasis is placed on session management, audio editing, template creation, and delivery formats, including dipped/undipped mixes, stems, and DME/ME configurations.The course introduces advanced concepts in loudness standards (e.g., R128), file interchange formats (AAF), and efficient workflow strategies such as automation vs. clip gain, pre-FX processing, and template-based mixing. Students will also explore professional etiquette in collaborative audio post environments and engage with real-world delivery specifications.Practical sessions will involve dialogue editing, sound design, mixing music and effects, and final mix preparation. Exercises will include ADR session management, exporting stems, relinking media and using VCAs and master tracks for dynamic control in stereo sessions.By the end of the course, students will be capable of executing a complete post-production audio workflow - from field capture to final mix - while meeting technical broadcast standards and narrative storytelling goals. The course prepares students for real-world industry scenarios requiring precision, creativity, and technical fluency in audio post-production.

The Capstone Project represents the culmination of the programme and requires students to complete a substantial project within their chosen area of specialisation. The project is designed to integrate and apply the technical, creative, and professional competencies developed throughout the course into a cohesive, industry-aligned body of work.Students will identify a focused area of speciality aligned with their career goals and submit a formal proposal outlining the project’s objectives, methodology, workflow, timeline, and intended outcomes. Once approved, students will take primary responsibility for the planning, execution, and delivery of the project.While the project is largely student-driven, it is conducted under the guidance of an appointed supervisor. The supervisor will provide structured direction, feedback, and milestone reviews to ensure academic rigor, professional standards, and appropriate scope. Students are expected to respond constructively to feedback and demonstrate the ability to refine their work through an iterative process.The final submission will include the completed practical outcome (or equivalent deliverable), supporting documentation of process and workflow, and a critical reflection situating the project within current industry practices.