Music Theory and Technology

We believe in creative expression in a variety of genres and formats.  Though we have created performance opportunities as Student DJ Showcase and more recently in light of COVID-19, Stream Jams, the MCMT community is diverse, eclectic, and tremendously supportive of a variety of styles and methods of performance. 

Through the generous support of Associated Students of Moorpark College, this past year we have been able to create T-shirts for the shows, give away door prizes to students, and give top performers gear based on audience applause (doing it old school!).

Past Shows

On April 15th 2021 Moorpark College Music Technology (MCMT) and Performing Arts proudly presented our sixth streamed live concert on Twitch TV.  Featuring original student compositions, live electronic music performances, and DJ sets.

 

 

 

 

The Stream Jam 2 raised funds for The Bail Project.  We urge you still to consider donating to this important cause.

 

Read the article about the Stream Jam by David Chavez of the Moorpark Reporter.  

 

Read the article about the January 31st 2020 show by David Chavez of the Moorpark Reporter. 

 

Read the article about the Fall 2019 show by Emily Ledesma of the Moorpark Reporter.  Read her article leading up to the event.

 

Read the article about our first Student DJ Showcase by Emily Ledesma of the Moorpark Reporter.

FALL 2020 - VCCCD Music Internship (2 positions)

Faculty Advisors: Music Program

Worksite Supervisors: Music Program

Location: Moorpark College (working remotely online)

Job Type: Internship (Paid, $14.50/hr)

Hours: 3-4 hours/week estimate for one unit (about 75 hours total, enrolling in MUS M80)

The vision of VCCCD has a need for music for various promotional videos and District meetings.

Responsibilities include:

Working under the advisement of Professors Brandon Elliott and Nathan Bowen and in collaboration with the District offices of Ventura Community College District, create original music that matches the needs and vision of the Administrative Office of the Chancellor and the Board of Trustees. This internship is designed to give music students experience working with a client and composing for specific needs and contexts.

These interns must be able to meet with content creators, District administrators, and also work independently to create the music. These interns must have access to all instruments and computers required to compose original music, and must have demonstrated knowledge of working with a digital audio workstation (DAW), as well as some experience creating music in a digital format. Students who have completed either Intro to Music Technology or Beginning Electronic music will be given priority.

These interns must be able to take constructive criticism of their work from the clients and advisors and make creative adjustments to meet the vision of the District.

These interns must be dependable and able to meet deadlines.

IF INTERESTED, PLEASE CONTACT NATHAN BOWEN <nbowen@vcccd.edu>

RESUMES AND SAMPLE LINKS OF WORK (E.G. ON SOUNDCLOUD) ARE REQUIRED

 

We have a vibrant community of students, alumni, and faculty who like to geek out about music technology, learning new tricks, and sharing music.  If you'd like to join our Discord, send an email to Prof. Bowen for an invite link.

The Music Technology Certificate of Achievement is designed for students seeking a career as a professional musician. It will better prepare a student to secure a job in the music industry by building skills related to music technology. After successfully completing this certificate a student could be hired as a composer, recording artist, music production assistant, assistant audio engineer, audio technician, assistant music supervisor, or artists & repertoire (A&R) assistant.

Time to Complete: 1 year

Download the Program of Study

If you are interested and want to join the MCMT community, apply to join the MCMT Certificate Program here. An MCMT team member will be in touch with you. 

If you have any questions about the program, feel free to email Prof. Nathan Bowen.

This class serves a wide range of students, both declared music majors and non-majors.  This is a project-centric class, where students can create portfolio pieces by using digital audio workstations (DAWs) and notation software.  Students prepare for a variety of workplace scenarios by composing and arranging music for commercial settings, live performance, and interdisciplinary projects.  Topics for discussion include the history of music technology, aesthetics, ethics, authorship, plus an introduction to MIDI, hardware, and synthesis.

Software used: Logic Pro X, Finale, MuseScore, Ableton Live Suite, Reaper, VCV Rack

In this class we introduce techniques and elements of electronic music production. Includes topics such as synthesis, sampling, MIDI sequencing, with projects gradually aimed to move toward live performance. Requires the creation of compositions utilizing electronic music techniques.  In this course, students get a thorough exposure to the fundamental concepts of synthesis along with exposure to current trends in live electronic performance. 

We use Ableton Live as the software platform for this class.  

As our textbook, we utilize the free audit option for this Kadenze course to view videos.  We then do step-by-step technique demonstrations in lab time to put concepts into practice.

Introduces the study of the music industry. Emphasizes and examines the various areas of the music business, the functions of each area, and the relationships between areas. Includes the topics of music publishing; copyright and intellectual property; music licensing; unions and guilds; performance rights organizations; personal and business financial management; artists and management; and recording industry.  

Explores the process, skills, and techniques of songwriting. Analyzes the chord structure, form, rhythm, melody, harmony, and lyrics of various songs. Requires demonstration of understanding through composition and performance of original song.

Prerequisite: M02B/BL or tested equivalent

We offer four semesters of music theory, with a sequence designed to help students gain a deep understanding of what makes music so powerful and effective as an artistic medium.  Here students gain a strong foundation in harmony, voice leading, intervals, melodic and phrase structures, rhythm, form, and notation.  There is also a historical component to the curriculum, which aims to expose students to the Western tonal music tradition from the Common Practice Era through the 20th century. 

Students gain fluency in musicianship skills such as solfége, dictation, conducting, and a familiarity with the keyboard.  In partnership with EarMaster, students receive access to this excellent platform to enhance their musicianship learning.  The purpose is to gain a high literacy in these areas to be able to apply them in a wide variety of musical settings.