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Alchemea would like to congratulate Chris Jenkins who was nominated for the "Unsung Hero" award at this years Music Producer Guild Awards. The award was presented on behalf of Alchemea…
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Alchemea recently teamed up with Avid / Digidesign at the 2010 Broadcast Video Expo to deliver free hands on Pro Tools 8 training to show visitors.
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ALCHEMEA COLLEGE
The Windsor Centre
Windsor Street T: 020 7359 3986
London N1 8QG E: info@alchemea.com
Studio Sound Diploma - Course Overview
DIPLOMA COURSE IN STUDIO SOUND ENGINEERING
36 weeks. 1300 Guided Learning Hours separated into:
This is our premier audio engineering and music production course that has proven to be very successful in preparing our students for the world of commercial sound engineering. To date over 85% of our Diploma graduates have begun their careers in the professional audio engineering industry.
The industry recognises that our graduates have not only the "real world" practical skills but also the right attitude to make a successful employee. We are in our 15th year and during this time we have built up strong links with the top music and post pro studios. We help to match our top students with jobs and 85% of graduates are working in the industry within 6 months of leaving.
The Alchemea Diploma focuses on all key aspects of audio engineering including recording techniques, editing and processing techniques, mixing techniques, programming and post-production (sound for moving picture). Candidates will also be introduced to mastering and live sound production and gain a solid understanding of all underlying audio theory, from basic Maths and Physics to advanced Digital Audio concepts.
Each student is guaranteed over one thousand hours of individual practical time. This is time to re-enforce knowledge gained, complete practical assignments and undertake own projects. Our studios and workstations, which are equipped to professional standards, are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. No other college guarantees students the same level of individual hands on practical activity and around the clock studio access.
Diploma Course Aim:
This course aims to give the candidate the knowledge and confidence to be able to gain employment in most job roles within the professional audio industry.
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of the Diploma course, the candidate should be able to:
The Diploma course is divided into 4 parts.
DIPLOMA PART 1 – STUDIO ASSISTANT CERTIFICATE COURSE (SAC)
8 weeks. 251 Guided Learning Hours separated into:
This course includes Digidesign’s Pro Tools 101 course. The SAC can also be taken as a stand alone course.
Part 1 Course Aim:
This introductory module aims to introduce a beginner to the world of professional audio, including basic concepts, terminology, standard practices, workflow and equipment.
This includes basic physics of sound, basic electronics and interconnectivity / signal flow, basic computer operation, basic digital audio concepts, basic MIDI and Synthesis concepts.
Upon completion of this part candidates should be capable of immediately assisting in any professional audio environment, avoiding basic mistakes and without needing lengthy training.
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of this course, the candidate should be able to:
Check out our SAC syllabus below for a more detailed look at what you will cover in part 1 of the Diploma course:
SAC Syllabus 2010.pdf
DIPLOMA PART 2
10 weeks. 403 Guided Learning Hours separated into:
This part of the course includes the Digidesign Pro Tools 110 course and the Apple Logic Pro 101 courses.
Part 2 Course Aim:
The second part of the Diploma course aims to teach candidates the basics of running a recording and mixing session successfully. This includes an overview of advanced audio processing tools (terminology, guidelines, standard practices, workflow and equipment) used with a view to recording and mixing multi-tracked material.
Upon completion candidates should be capable of recording a full band (including drums), either in a controlled studio environment or in a ‘live’ scenario, to an acceptable industry level, and perform a competent mix of this recording to basic expectations.
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of this part of the course, the candidate should be able to:
DIPLOMA PART 3
8 weeks. 283 Guided Learning Hours separated into:
Course Aim:
This part of the Diploma course aims to introduce the candidate to the fields of Audio Post Production for Film and Television and Electronic music production.
During this part, candidates will also gain a deeper understanding of the concepts covered during parts 1 and 2, including advanced electronics and interconnectivity / signal flow, advanced microphone techniques, advanced mixing techniques, advanced MIDI programming & synthesis, advanced digital audio concepts.
Upon completion candidates should be capable of recording a full band (including drums), either in a controlled studio environment or in a ‘live’ scenario, to a good industry level and perform a competent mix of this recording, as well as use a variety of electronic music production tools.
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of this part of the course, the candidate should be able to:
DIPLOMA PART 4
10 weeks. 363 Guided Learning Hours separated into:
Course Aim:
This final part of the Diploma course aims to focus on various aspects of Audio production, using the technical knowledge acquired in the previous parts in order to be creative and get the most out of any project. It also aims to consolidate the candidates skills and knowledge thus preparing them for the workplace.
Upon completion candidates should be capable of recording, mixing and designing sound for moving picture using industry standard techniques and equipment.
The final part of the courses also aims to introduce candidates to a range of further studies and career paths including room acoustics and considerations for studio build, understanding the role of a freelancer and the music business (contracts, royalties, basic business practices and legal issues.)
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of this part of the course, the candidate should be able to:
Check out our Diploma syllabus below for a more detailed look at what you will cover as a Diploma student:
Studio Sound Diploma Syllabus 2010.pdf
Remember that on top of this you will have covered everything in the SAC syllaubus.
PRO TOOLS
We include the 101 and 110 modules with the Alchemea Diploma course. For an additional cost, students also have the option to integrate the 201 and 210 (Operator Certification). These additional modules run concurrent to the later stages of the Diploma course. Check out our price sheet for all the available options. If a Diploma student then wishes to study up Expert level (310) they can take these additional modules as a short course after the Diploma program and receive a 30% discount. Alchemea Students can also make great savings on hardware and software direct through Digidesign’s Training & Education Store. Click here to find out more about Digidesign's Certified Training Program.
LOGIC PRO
Alchemea are one of Europe’s premier Apple Authorised Training Centres and deliver certified Logic Pro, Soundtrack Pro and Final Cut Pro short courses. The Logic Pro Level 1 course, accompanying book and DVD are included in the Alchemea Diploma. We also
include one attempt at the Apple Logic Level 1 pro‐metric exam. One of the main aims of this course is to prepare students for Apple’s Certified Pro examinations. These industry‐recognised qualifications are a useful addition to your CV demonstrating that you are
a confident and knowledgeable Logic Pro 8 user. The pass mark is 80% and if you pass you become an "Apple Certified Pro" (Level 1). You also get a nice certificate from Apple!
For an additional cost Studio Sound Diploma students can choose to integrate this additional advance module into their studies. This 3‐day class will run on a Saturday, Sunday and Monday and take you through Logic’s powerful advanced features, covering everything from production, editing, and mixing, to notation and scoring to picture. Studio Sound Diploma students receive up to 30% off the list price of this course.
Click here for further Training and certification information at Apple's website.
MEDIA PACK & MOBILE RECORDING STUDIO
As well as adequate blank & storage media to complete the course, Diploma student's also receive the following as part of their media pack:
Yes - these are yours to keep forever!
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Due to the intensive nature of this course the minimum age requirement for the Diploma is 18. Please refer to our "How To Apply" page for more information.
COURSE GRADING
A 3 point grading scale is used - Fail/Pass/Distinction. Alchemea College refers exclusively to industry standards (see Employer Involvement) as the benchmark for Pass/Distinction, where Pass is suitable for work that would be acceptable in the industry, and Distinction is suitable for work that would be acceptable in the industry and shows flair and creativity beyond the basic requirements of the assignment brief. By ensuring that the course directly meets the requirements of employers, the course meets National Occupational Standards, as laid out by Creative and Cultural Skills, the Sector Skills Agency responsible for music.
STATEMENT OF LEVEL EQUIVALENCE
Although Alchemea is an independent college and the Diploma course has been developed independently by recording industry professionals, it is equivalent in all respects to a qualification at level 3 on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF), and the Qualifications Credit Framework (QCF), and meets (and in some cases exceeds) the definition of a ʻDiplomaʼ on the QCF. The facilities and resources available at Alchemea far exceed the requirements of a level 3 course, and would put many degree courses to shame.
INTERESTED?
Please contact our freindly College Registrar on +44(0)20 7359 3986 or email . Tony will be able to answer any questions you have about this course and if required arrange a time for you to visit Alchemea to talk about the courses, see the students in action and check out our amazing facilities.
FULL TIME COURSE BROCHURE
Full Time Course Brochure 2010.pdf
Note for students taking the Diploma in Studio & Live Sound Engineering:
The gap between finishing the Studio and Live Courses will vary depending on your start time. Below is an will give you an approximate idea of the gap between courses:
1) Winter (immediately or 16 weeks)
2) Spring (7 weeks)
3) Summer (12 weeks)
4) Autumn (12 weeks)
Click here to cross reference with the Live Sound Diploma course dates.
36 weeks. 1300 Guided Learning Hours separated into:- 300 hours of lectures in classroom.
- 1000 hours of individual, supervised practical time.
This is our premier audio engineering and music production course that has proven to be very successful in preparing our students for the world of commercial sound engineering. To date over 85% of our Diploma graduates have begun their careers in the professional audio engineering industry.
The industry recognises that our graduates have not only the "real world" practical skills but also the right attitude to make a successful employee. We are in our 15th year and during this time we have built up strong links with the top music and post pro studios. We help to match our top students with jobs and 85% of graduates are working in the industry within 6 months of leaving.
The Alchemea Diploma focuses on all key aspects of audio engineering including recording techniques, editing and processing techniques, mixing techniques, programming and post-production (sound for moving picture). Candidates will also be introduced to mastering and live sound production and gain a solid understanding of all underlying audio theory, from basic Maths and Physics to advanced Digital Audio concepts.
Each student is guaranteed over one thousand hours of individual practical time. This is time to re-enforce knowledge gained, complete practical assignments and undertake own projects. Our studios and workstations, which are equipped to professional standards, are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. No other college guarantees students the same level of individual hands on practical activity and around the clock studio access.
Diploma Course Aim:
This course aims to give the candidate the knowledge and confidence to be able to gain employment in most job roles within the professional audio industry.
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of the Diploma course, the candidate should be able to:
- Engineer, Record and Mix bands (any style) to a high level of proficiency.
- Produce music to a tight brief whilst being able to retain creativity at all levels.
- Perform basic Mastering of a song to basic expectations.
- Work on multiple projects towards a deadline and project manage their own time and resources.
- Be organised and methodical under pressure.
- Perform advanced MIDI and Audio programming demonstrating an understanding of musical arrangement pertinent to a style of the candidate’s choice (any style) and in-depth knowledge of synthesis tools and advanced sampler programming.
- Produce and mix a post-synchronised 5.1 Dolby Digital soundtrack for a short film clip and author onto DVD.
The Diploma course is divided into 4 parts.
DIPLOMA PART 1 – STUDIO ASSISTANT CERTIFICATE COURSE (SAC)
8 weeks. 251 Guided Learning Hours separated into:
- 75 hours of lectures in classroom.
- 176 hours of individual, supervised practical time.
This course includes Digidesign’s Pro Tools 101 course. The SAC can also be taken as a stand alone course.
Part 1 Course Aim:
This introductory module aims to introduce a beginner to the world of professional audio, including basic concepts, terminology, standard practices, workflow and equipment.
This includes basic physics of sound, basic electronics and interconnectivity / signal flow, basic computer operation, basic digital audio concepts, basic MIDI and Synthesis concepts.
Upon completion of this part candidates should be capable of immediately assisting in any professional audio environment, avoiding basic mistakes and without needing lengthy training.
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of this course, the candidate should be able to:
- Use a Digital Audio workstation (the industry standard Pro Tools) and perform basic tasks such as setting up a basic session, recording, importing, editing audio and MIDI and saving / archiving the project.
- Use a variety of microphones with circumspection.
- Route a variety of signals through a professional mixing desk.
- Perform basic level / pan balances of a multi-track recording.
- Manipulate audio recordings through a variety of DSP and perform basic programming of a sampler.
- Create Audio CD-Rs, Data CD-Rs, encode Digital Audio files into mp3 files.
- Demonstrate their usefulness when assisting on a recording session.
- Work towards a deadline and project manage their time and resources.
- Be organised and methodical.
Check out our SAC syllabus below for a more detailed look at what you will cover in part 1 of the Diploma course:
SAC Syllabus 2010.pdfDIPLOMA PART 2
10 weeks. 403 Guided Learning Hours separated into:
- 75 hours of lectures in classroom.
- 328 hours of individual, supervised practical time.
This part of the course includes the Digidesign Pro Tools 110 course and the Apple Logic Pro 101 courses.
Part 2 Course Aim:
The second part of the Diploma course aims to teach candidates the basics of running a recording and mixing session successfully. This includes an overview of advanced audio processing tools (terminology, guidelines, standard practices, workflow and equipment) used with a view to recording and mixing multi-tracked material.
Upon completion candidates should be capable of recording a full band (including drums), either in a controlled studio environment or in a ‘live’ scenario, to an acceptable industry level, and perform a competent mix of this recording to basic expectations.
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of this part of the course, the candidate should be able to:
- Record a full band (any kind of music) onto a professional, industry standard, analogue Tape Recorder or Digital Audio Workstation, using a variety of quality microphones and microphone techniques, through industry standard recording consoles.
- Perform an Automated Mix of the recording using industry standard tools and practices.
- Align & synchronise a 24 tracks 2” Tape Machine to Digital Audio Workstation (DAW)
- Make basic decisions in terms of microphone choice and placement, audio editing and processing.
- Use industry standard DAW’s to perform advanced tasks such as processing and mixing audio.
- Perform basic MIDI programming demonstrating an understanding of musical arrangement pertinent to the style chosen (any style) and basic knowledge of synthesis tools.
- Work on multiple projects towards a deadline and project manage their own time and resources.
- Be organised and methodical under pressure.
DIPLOMA PART 3
8 weeks. 283 Guided Learning Hours separated into:
- 75 hours of lectures in classroom.
- 208 hours of individual, supervised practical time.
Course Aim:
This part of the Diploma course aims to introduce the candidate to the fields of Audio Post Production for Film and Television and Electronic music production.
During this part, candidates will also gain a deeper understanding of the concepts covered during parts 1 and 2, including advanced electronics and interconnectivity / signal flow, advanced microphone techniques, advanced mixing techniques, advanced MIDI programming & synthesis, advanced digital audio concepts.
Upon completion candidates should be capable of recording a full band (including drums), either in a controlled studio environment or in a ‘live’ scenario, to a good industry level and perform a competent mix of this recording, as well as use a variety of electronic music production tools.
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of this part of the course, the candidate should be able to:
- Record and Mix bands (any style) to a higher level of competence and speed, displaying good use of audio signal processors.
- Confidently make creative decisions in terms of microphone choice and placement, audio editing and processing.
- Perform advanced MIDI and Audio programming demonstrating an understanding of musical arrangement pertinent to the style chosen (any style) and in-depth knowledge of synthesis tools and advanced sampler programming.
- Identify the different roles involved in the Audio Post-Production industry.
DIPLOMA PART 4
10 weeks. 363 Guided Learning Hours separated into:
- 75 hours of lectures in classroom.
- 288 hours of individual, supervised practical time.
Course Aim: This final part of the Diploma course aims to focus on various aspects of Audio production, using the technical knowledge acquired in the previous parts in order to be creative and get the most out of any project. It also aims to consolidate the candidates skills and knowledge thus preparing them for the workplace.
Upon completion candidates should be capable of recording, mixing and designing sound for moving picture using industry standard techniques and equipment.
The final part of the courses also aims to introduce candidates to a range of further studies and career paths including room acoustics and considerations for studio build, understanding the role of a freelancer and the music business (contracts, royalties, basic business practices and legal issues.)
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of this part of the course, the candidate should be able to:
- Produce, Record and Mix bands (any style) to a high level of proficiency.
- Produce music to a tight brief.
- Perform basic Mastering of a song to basic expectations.
- Choose with circumspection, track-lay and synchronise to a short film clip appropriate sound effects from a digital library.
- Record and edit ADR & Foley to a short film clip.
- Choose with circumspection, edit and synchronise to a short film clip appropriate backing music from a digital library.
- Produce the sound design for a short film clip.
- Mix in 5.1 Surround the post produced audio for a short film clip and encode it to Dolby Digital.
- Import, edit in basic ways and Export Video files to / from DAW.
- Author a DVD with DVD-ROM content.
Check out our Diploma syllabus below for a more detailed look at what you will cover as a Diploma student:
Studio Sound Diploma Syllabus 2010.pdfRemember that on top of this you will have covered everything in the SAC syllaubus.
PRO TOOLS
We include the 101 and 110 modules with the Alchemea Diploma course. For an additional cost, students also have the option to integrate the 201 and 210 (Operator Certification). These additional modules run concurrent to the later stages of the Diploma course. Check out our price sheet for all the available options. If a Diploma student then wishes to study up Expert level (310) they can take these additional modules as a short course after the Diploma program and receive a 30% discount. Alchemea Students can also make great savings on hardware and software direct through Digidesign’s Training & Education Store. Click here to find out more about Digidesign's Certified Training Program.
LOGIC PRO
Alchemea are one of Europe’s premier Apple Authorised Training Centres and deliver certified Logic Pro, Soundtrack Pro and Final Cut Pro short courses. The Logic Pro Level 1 course, accompanying book and DVD are included in the Alchemea Diploma. We also
include one attempt at the Apple Logic Level 1 pro‐metric exam. One of the main aims of this course is to prepare students for Apple’s Certified Pro examinations. These industry‐recognised qualifications are a useful addition to your CV demonstrating that you are
a confident and knowledgeable Logic Pro 8 user. The pass mark is 80% and if you pass you become an "Apple Certified Pro" (Level 1). You also get a nice certificate from Apple!
For an additional cost Studio Sound Diploma students can choose to integrate this additional advance module into their studies. This 3‐day class will run on a Saturday, Sunday and Monday and take you through Logic’s powerful advanced features, covering everything from production, editing, and mixing, to notation and scoring to picture. Studio Sound Diploma students receive up to 30% off the list price of this course.
Click here for further Training and certification information at Apple's website.
MEDIA PACK & MOBILE RECORDING STUDIO
As well as adequate blank & storage media to complete the course, Diploma student's also receive the following as part of their media pack: - Apple MacBook 13" White 2.1GHz Intel Core 2 Duo/1GB
- Digidesign MBox 2 Mini
- Rode M3 mic
- M Audio Keyrig 25 Controller Keyboard
- Stand, lead and pop shield
Yes - these are yours to keep forever!
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Due to the intensive nature of this course the minimum age requirement for the Diploma is 18. Please refer to our "How To Apply" page for more information.
COURSE GRADING
A 3 point grading scale is used - Fail/Pass/Distinction. Alchemea College refers exclusively to industry standards (see Employer Involvement) as the benchmark for Pass/Distinction, where Pass is suitable for work that would be acceptable in the industry, and Distinction is suitable for work that would be acceptable in the industry and shows flair and creativity beyond the basic requirements of the assignment brief. By ensuring that the course directly meets the requirements of employers, the course meets National Occupational Standards, as laid out by Creative and Cultural Skills, the Sector Skills Agency responsible for music.
STATEMENT OF LEVEL EQUIVALENCE
Although Alchemea is an independent college and the Diploma course has been developed independently by recording industry professionals, it is equivalent in all respects to a qualification at level 3 on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF), and the Qualifications Credit Framework (QCF), and meets (and in some cases exceeds) the definition of a ʻDiplomaʼ on the QCF. The facilities and resources available at Alchemea far exceed the requirements of a level 3 course, and would put many degree courses to shame.
INTERESTED?
Please contact our freindly College Registrar on +44(0)20 7359 3986 or email . Tony will be able to answer any questions you have about this course and if required arrange a time for you to visit Alchemea to talk about the courses, see the students in action and check out our amazing facilities.
FULL TIME COURSE BROCHURE
Full Time Course Brochure 2010.pdfNote for students taking the Diploma in Studio & Live Sound Engineering:
The gap between finishing the Studio and Live Courses will vary depending on your start time. Below is an will give you an approximate idea of the gap between courses:
1) Winter (immediately or 16 weeks)
2) Spring (7 weeks)
3) Summer (12 weeks)
4) Autumn (12 weeks)
Click here to cross reference with the Live Sound Diploma course dates.