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Music & Digital Media

Kingston Campus | Program Code: 0965 | Open for International Students
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Overview

The Music and Digital Media (MDM) Program is the only program of its kind in Canada. This challenging program builds foundational skills related to music performance, multimedia, film and audio recording. MDM prepares students for careers in music and media industries, and further education, if they wish.

The program focuses on the connection between diverse artistic disciplines and the creative integration of art forms. Studies in music are combined with digital media courses in video production and audio recording. In second year, students gain experience in composition, entrepreneurial skills, and integrated arts project work including performance, sound design and installation art.

Learning Outcomes:

  1. Implement personal and professional strategies to gain proficiency in vocal and/or instrumental performance.
  2. Interpret the structure, style, content, and aesthetic qualities of an artistic work using knowledge of music history, theory, and/or visual form to inform creative practice.
  3. Produce digital music recordings for creative or promotional purposes and/or integration into multimedia productions.
  4. Create video projects that document or enhance musical performances for creative or promotional purposes.
  5. Translate the elements of musical composition into visual contexts using digital technologies and industry-standard software to produce integrated arts projects.
  6. Apply creative-industry entrepreneurial skills to manage and market projects in the rapidly changing music and multimedia environment.

Program Details

Code 0965
Start Date September
Credential Ontario College Diploma
Campus Kingston
Program Length 2 Years
Delivery Full-Time
Open for international students

Program Highlights

This is a unique program where students not only develop music skills, but also invest significant time and energy into digital media skills. The Music and Digital Media Program allows students to develop a diverse skill set, which is a strong employment advantage. For those wishing to enter the modern "gig economy", students complete the program with a solid base of entrepreneurial skills obtained through two entrepreneurial-specific courses.

The Music and Digital Media Program offers a multi-dimensional integrated arts perspective giving graduates skills that cross many arts, cultural, and entertainment fields.

Music and Digital Media Culminating Project - Valeriia Barinova

Program Outline

2024-2025

In this course, students learn key introductory theoretical concepts and language. Learners study scores and listening examples to reinforce their knowledge of the elements of music and music theory. Students describe and analyze the connections between individual musical components and larger musical structures. Learners explore music from a broad range of time periods and cultures to connect social, cultural, and musical concepts.

In this introductory course, students develop filmmaking skills in both cinematography and post-production as well as a basic understanding of project management. Students learn the technical craft of cinematography through hands-on work with cameras and lighting. Learners also explore how cinematography can increase understanding and appreciation of a musical performance. Students create, organize, and edit their footage into cohesive finished projects using non-linear video editing software.

In this course, student musicians learn standard recording techniques and principles, audio editing, and the associated software and hardware tools. Learners explore microphone types, placement, and orientation, and hear the results of different techniques. Students learn how to set up a recording session and perform basic editing and mixing using an industry-standard Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) and produce a recording from start to finish. 

In this course, students learn foundational knowledge and skills in keyboarding and musical theory.  Learners participate in a hands-on, applied environment to support musical proficiency.

In this performance-based course, students learn to read and perform written musical scores as well as develop listening skills. Learners develop listening skills through ear training exercises that focus on the identification of fundamental theoretical principles of listening and learn to read and perform musical scores through exercises, excerpts, and music selections. Learners develop the aural skills needed to work in the fields of music, recording, and other media industries. The course is divided into three components: ear training skills, sight reading skills, and ensemble rehearsals.

In this interdisciplinary course, students are introduced to the histories and social contexts of the performing, visual, and literary arts. Learners explore the integration of art forms through the study of the foundational elements of specific art forms, as well as the principles of design including visual, auditory, and literary. Students develop and apply criteria to evaluate the significance and quality of art using lenses that consider social context, skill, and personal narrative.  

In this course, students learn ensemble skills. Students explore fundamental techniques for improving proficiency in vocal and/or instrumental performance, reading scores or lead sheets, developing repertoire, and interpreting different musical styles and genres. Learners have the opportunity to perform in-progress work for their peers in a collaborative and supportive environment. Students learn strategies to assist in preparation for various types of performance. 

In this course, students build on foundational knowledge of elements of music and visual media and refine their ability to critically analyze the connections between the two. Learners also explore the relationships between social and cultural concepts, music, and visual media. Students prepare to create their own music and digital media projects in other courses.

In this course, students further develop their filmmaking skills in production and post-production phases. Learners apply project management skills to their projects, seeing them through development to completion. Students refine their cinematography through studio and location filming and begin to learn the skills to convey the depth of expression and emotion of a live musical performance in the video medium. Learners continue to hone their editing skills and utilize industry standard post-production techniques to create professional content. Students, informed by music visualizations and the history of visual music, explore bringing different forms of music to the screen.

In this course, students refine their recording and editing skills in a hands-on setting. Learners explore compression and equalization techniques and learn to use effects to achieve a pre-determined sound aesthetic. Students learn how to set up, manage, record, and mix medium-scale recording sessions. Learners set-up, run, and record live sound for a small-scale concert.

In this course, students learn about the architecture and language of Western music. Learners expand upon foundational elements of music theory in the context of both the common practice period and the contemporary context of jazz and popular music. Students develop skills for understanding and analyzing the harmonic structure of tonal and contemporary music to assist them as they move forward into composition. 

Students develop the aural skills needed to work in the fields of music, recording, and other media industries. Learners apply knowledge and strategies to accurately sight-sing, transcribe, and perform musical passages from a variety of musical eras and cultures. Students employ singing techniques and rehearsal collaboration skills to achieve effective performances. 

In this course, students practice and refine techniques for improving proficiency in vocal and/or instrumental performance, reading scores or lead sheets, developing repertoire, and interpreting different musical styles and genres. Learners have continued opportunity to perform in-progress work for their peers in a collaborative and supportive environment and to participate in discussions regarding methods of preparation and practice. Students improve upon existing strategies that assist in preparation for various types of performance.

In this advanced course, students create music visualizations using various forms of animation. Learners apply video production techniques to document integrated arts performances. Students situate their own work in a broader context of contemporary and historical art though screenings, discussion, and analysis. Students combine technical and analytic skills to create videos that convey a specific artistic vision through the integration of music and motion graphics.

In this course, students learn an introductory overview of audio synthesis and visual programming using industry standard software. Learners explore various audio synthesis methods including additive, subtractive, sampling, granular synthesis, and various types of modulation techniques. Students study the history of the synthesizer and electronic music and explore many of the current sound design trends in electronic music.

In this course, students learn theoretical concepts and tools to compose music for visual media. Learners explore how music functions to enhance the content of different types of visual media. Students shape the elements of music and use compositional devices to create different emotions in their compositions. Learners use musical notation software to score and edit music as well as a digital audio workstation to produce compositions.

In this interdisciplinary arts course, students learn to plan, develop, create, and perform in integrated arts projects. It builds on and puts to practical use theoretical knowledge, using the foundational elements of various artforms, as well as principles of design – including visual, auditory, and literary – students create collaborative projects utilizing multiple artforms.

In this course, students learn entrepreneurial skills and the knowledge of business concepts that will help them thrive in their careers. Learners explore concepts of project management, marketing in the context of project and event planning, and awareness of legal issues relevant to artists . Students collaborate to produce an artistic event, and in the process, learn strategies to work effectively as a team.

In this course, students use techniques in various types of performance, reading scores or lead sheets, developing repertoire, and interpreting different musical styles and genres. Learners rehearse and perform in large ensembles and prepare music of diverse styles in a collaborative and supportive environment for performance. Students improve upon existing strategies to assist in preparation for various types of performance.

In this capstone course, students apply their knowledge of recording, sound design history and techniques, and project management to design, create, and implement an audio project. Learners investigate relevant historical and contemporary artists, trends, and approaches to creating and integrating auditory and visual elements. Students evaluate their own sound design skills and decisions to improve the effectiveness of their art. Learners apply skills in studio and/or field settings.

In this interdisciplinary arts course, students use their theoretical knowledge to create, and gain practical experience in collaborating on, an integrated arts installation. Students prepare for independent workplace practice by using the foundational elements of various artforms – including visual, auditory, and literary – as well as the principles of design to collaborate with peers and explore the full process and creation of an integrated arts installation.

In this course, students gain advanced entrepreneurial skills with a specific focus on personal brand development. Learners develop a marketing strategy and apply their project management knowledge and use online tools to implement their plan. Students engage in networking opportunities that can support career development and practice grant writing skills to obtain different types of funding for their artistic activities. Learners practice professionalism in all verbal and written communications and explore data visualization techniques and tools that will support their ability to manage and market projects.

Students use techniques to further develop their proficiency in vocal and/or instrumental performance, reading scores or lead sheets, developing repertoire, and interpreting different musical styles and genres. Learners rehearse and perform in large ensemble groups comprising the entire class and prepare music of diverse styles in a collaborative and supportive environment for small ensemble performances in both recording studios and live settings. Students implement strategies to assist in preparation for diverse types of performance.

In this course, students explore the field of emerging technologies in a collaborative and interdisciplinary manner. Learners work with new/emerging technologies, adopt strategies to become familiar with the technology and apply the technology to support the production of a digital work of art.

Requirements

Admission Requirements

Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) with the majority of Grade 11 and 12 courses at the C, U or M level including the following prerequisites:

  • Grade 12 English at the C or U level
  • Grade 11 Math at the C, U or M level
  • Successful performance recording and musical background - details below

For OSSD equivalency options, see Admission Requirements.

If you are missing prerequisite courses, enroll in the Career/College Prep program - free for Ontario residents who are 19 years or older.

Performance Recording Criteria

  • Audio or Video recording using MP3, MP4 or YouTube link (professional recording is not required)
  • Include at least three contrasting selections
  • 10-15 minutes in length
  • Only one selection can be performed with other musicians
  • Applicant can perform on more than one instrument

Musical Background Criteria

1. Proof of Music Theory Proficiency

  • Applicants must demonstrate knowledge of music theory equivalent to Royal Conservatory of Music Level 6 (Intermediate Rudiments).
  • Applicants who have achieved this standard should include a copy/scan of their RCM certificate in their non-academic admissions submission. Applicants who do not have this background must contact the Program Coordinator to discuss options for achieving this standard before beginning the program.

2. Artist Statement

Please provide a 200 word typewritten description of your complete musical background. The statement must be submitted as a Word document. This must include:

  • All private lessons completed
  • High school/post-secondary music courses completed
  • Music exams completed (other than high school/post-secondary)
  • Performance experience
  • Your name should be included in any file titles.

After applying, email your recording and your musical background to:

Mark Bergin
Program Coordinator
mbergin@sl.on.ca

Other Requirements

Recommended Computer Hardware:

Starting in Fall 2023, all students in the Music and Digital Media program should have access to a MacBook or comparable PC with the following specifications.

Minimum:

  • Intel 6th Gen or newer (M1)
  • OSX 10.14 or higher
  • 16GB RAM
  • 2Gb GPU VRAM
  • 1280 x 800 video display
  • Internal SSD - 250Gb - 500Gb

Recommended:

  • Intel 6th Gen or newer (M1)
  • OSX 10.14 or higher
  • 32GB RAM
  • 4Gb GPU VRAM
  • 1080HD video display
  • Internal SSD - 500Gb - 1Tb

If you are unsure of which system will best suit your needs in the MDM program, please contact Program Coordinator, Mark Bergin (mbergin@sl.on.ca).

Fees

2024-2025

Tuition
Program Fees
Ancillary Fees
Total
CAD
Tuition
$2,721.36 CAD
Program Fees
$0.00 CAD
Ancillary Fees
$1,531.33 CAD
Total
$4,252.69 CAD

Fees are estimates only.  Tuition is based on two semesters.

Tuition
Program Fees
Ancillary Fees
Total
CAD
Tuition
$16,430.00 CAD
Program Fees
$0.00 CAD
Ancillary Fees
$2,300.35 CAD
Total
$18,730.35 CAD

Fees are estimates only.  Tuition is based on two semesters.

Kingston

Our Kingston campus has seen significant renovation over the past few years, including a brand new Student Life and Innovation Centre that houses a new gymnasium, fitness centre, pub, and more.

Kingston Campus

Career Opportunities

The Music and Digital Media Program develops the skills to work in diverse music careers, as well as preparing them for audio recording/producing and visual arts, including video production. Upon successful completion of the program, students have opportunities in both live performance and production, recording studios, video recording, and further education. Graduates will also find that their skills fit many non-traditional media opportunities.

Testimonials

"The Music and Digital Media Program gave me a plethora of new knowledge that has shaped my artistic abilities and mindset. This includes acquiring a better grasp of musical, artistic, visual, and digital media theories. Whether you are collaborating with your classmates or working alone, you are going to love what the program has to offer and the friends you will make. "
Thomas Abbott
"Only at St. Lawrence have I ever been this happy in place that has made the right change for me. Thank you for everyone who helped me make it this far. "
Dylan C
"The vision for the Digital Arts for Musicians program is on the cutting edge of today's music and visual arts. This program helped me out tremendously. I was accepted into the Musicians Institute in Hollywood, California and am using the skills that I learned at St. Lawrence College to the fullest. "
Andrin Vanja

Other Information

Programs at St. Lawrence College are delivered using a variety of instruction modes. Courses may be offered in the classroom or lab, entirely online, or in a hybrid mode which combines classroom sessions with online learning activities. Program delivery can be run weekdays, weekends or evenings. Upon registration, each full-time student is provided a St. Lawrence College email account which is used to communicate important information about program or course events.

 Concerts and Workshops: On-campus and off-campus performing opportunities exist for students in the program.

Technology: ADOBE CC is used for Photography, Video and Motion Graphics. LOGIC PRO is the appli­cation used for Recording. Students will work in PC and Mac labs. 

Advanced Standing

Applicants with post-secondary credits may be eligible for direct entry to an upper level of the program (semester or year) depending on transfer credits. Select the applicable level when applying at ontariocolleges.ca and ensure that we receive your official post-secondary transcript for consideration. If you are unsure what level to apply for, please contact the program coordinator.

Program Contacts

Program Contact
Mark Bergin

mbergin@sl.on.ca
613.544.5400 ext. 1160

Admissions Information
Click here to message Recruitment.

Click here to schedule an appointment with Recruitment.

Credit Transfer Opportunities

SLC graduates have many options to continue their studies with post-secondary institutions across Canada and around the world. Agreements between SLC and other institutions that are specific to this program are listed below. In addition, there are many credit transfer pathway agreements between colleges and universities within the province of Ontario. Please also visit www.ontransfer.ca to search for options relevant to your program area of study.

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