Seasoned composer Michael A. Levine will be teaching the fundamentals of music composition in film. Through his neurodivergent mind and autism diagnosis, Michael makes world come alive with his original scores.
An important component will be guest speakers who will address the group depending on their availability. The schedule below will be adjusted to accommodate them as necessary.
Read the course outline below:
Media Composing Worksop
(11 weeks)
Instructor: Michael A. Levine
Format: 11 Weeks | 1 Hour per Session | Virtual via Zoom
Week 1:
- Intro
- Learn about each student.
- Ask students what are their favorite scores for films, TV, and games.
- Favorite composers.
- Emphasize the importance of understanding story.
- Suggest books and articles.
- Discuss appropriate tools. (Logic, Cubase, Ableton, Performer, ProTools, etc.).
- Talk about the differences and similarities of different media including films, TV, games, podcasts, commercials, etc.
Homework: Read from suggested books or articles
Week 2:
- Identify each student’s desire.
- Discuss ways to get there/appropriate career paths.
- Talk about the unique challenges (and abilities) of ND composers.
- Discuss how to integrate live players.
- Ask about book reading.
Homework: If possible, I will see if I can get no music versions of famous films/TV shows/games for them to score. If not, I will see if I still have work version of things I’ve worked on.
Week 3:
- Show first bits of work.
- I will give feedback.
- Discuss books further.
Homework: Continue to work on scores and reading.
Week 4:
- Review.
- Encourage interaction and (helpful) criticism from other students.
- Talk about preparing for live players.
Homework: Continue to work on scores and reading.
Week 5:
- Review mock-ups and scores.
- Encourage interaction and (helpful) criticism from other students.
- Talk about what they’ve learned from the books and articles.
- Talk about post work on live performances. (Pitch correction, etc.)
Homework: record live players (themselves or friends).
Week 6:
- Review finished scores.
- Start again on a new project with what they’ve learned.
Homework: Choose/Find a new project. Begin work on it.
Week 7:
- Show first bits of work #2
Homework: Continue work on #2.
Week 8:
- Review.
- Encourage interaction and (helpful) criticism from other students.
- Talk about preparing for live players.
Homework: Continue work on #2.
Week 9:
- Review mock-ups and scores.
- Encourage interaction and (helpful) criticism from other students
Week 10:
- Review finished scores.
- Hear from students what they’ve learned.
Week 11:
- Overall review.
- Wide open Q & A.
- Discussion of schools, work opportunities, etc.
- Discuss how to put together a reel including the materials made in the class.
