Learning Journal (WEEK 8 – AUM162)

DATA

1. Learning Sampling with Pro Tools

2. Project 2 Composition

3. Reflection

1. Learning Sampling with Pro Tools

This week, I’ve been researching and learning different ways of sampling. I’ve started recording some homemade rhythm egg shakers and any percussion instruments that I think I might be able to use in the composition.

As I’ve been quarantined because of COVID, along with some major up and coming surgery (which has been now scheduled for September) and needed some bird sounds for project 2 I downloaded a free sample from the internet. Since I’m using Pro Tools as the DAW of choice, I will be using the plug-in Structure Free to upload my samples into.

Learning how to use sampling in this project 2 composition will be a huge benefit to my overall skills as an audio engineer and composer. I’ve never attempted to add samples to any composition before, so learning how to use sample sounds in a composition, will open the door to a whole new world of music sampling techniques that I am truly lacking at the moment as a creator.

One of the sounds I would like to add at the beginning of the song is running water from a fountain. Since I don’t have a top-notch sample recorder, I will capture the sound with my iPhone. I have a small fountain in the backyard, so I will use this sample sound at the start of the song.

2. Project 2

Project 2 song composition is more of a Traditional Pop song. I think the best way to describe it, is it’s a pre-rock & roll vibe about it. Using Jazz chords to express the narrative.

I’ve been watching Jazz drum lessons online to get a feel on how I want the drums in the song to sound and feel like throughout the song.

I’ve been rehearsing the guitar rhythm last week while watching TV to get my hand motor skills working fluently, so I should be able to put the guitar work down this week. I’m really needed to crack the whip and get as much done this week.

The bass guitar for the composition is an area that I need to work on. I’m not really sure how to approach it as of yet.

This Traditional Pop genre song will be another learning journey and I’m looking forward to seeing if I can pull it off.

3. Reflection

Last Tuesday (4 August) during the lecture, our lecturer explained different levels of reflection learning and how reflection can open up your mind’s door. Now I can see the importance of reflection in the discipline I am learning. I never knew that there were different levels and in learning reflection techniques would increase the proses of learning. I think that if you reflect honestly with yourself then this will increase your learning curve dramatically.

The quicker I can learn, then the better I will be at my chosen discipline. It would also give me more tools to create with. It’s quite exciting reflecting on and opening your mind up for change.