Cover Story: Debunking the Strange Side of Ableton Music Ednet Update

Music PO Box 1013 Education Blackwood SA 5051 Network 1300 723 700

ON MUSIC August EDUCATION 2017

Australia

►►Cover Story: Debunking the Composing & Performing with Technology - Johann Dreyer strange side of Ableton DAYTiME 2017

►►Music EDnet update: Budget Time

►►Pedagogy: Project Based Learning in music

►►Technology updates

►►EDnet TV: Video Tutorials DAYTiME 2017 Sessions

►►Software, specials ... and FREE trials

►►And more ... Music EDnet update

Budget time - an opportunity to plan beyond next year

Look back and reflect, so you can move forward

paring plans that can and do ensure suc- cess. It is quite amazing what a pair of fresh eyes and asking a few questions can uncover. There is no doubt that you would know your department and how it works better than anyone else, but it is also true that working “in” it every day nutshell, it is the “how” of teaching chil- is very different to working “on” it. This dren … whereas curriculum is the “what”. is the perspective we encourage and for you to take some time away from the day- Andragogy, on the other hand, is the art to-day. Add to this the expertise and per- and science of teaching adults … still the Warrick Dowdy Dear Educator, spective that Music EDnet brings to bear “how”, but it is quite different, as is the Manager - Customer Services and the outline of your plan quickly be- Pedagogy, Andragogy and Professional “what”. The term Andragogy was original- [email protected] gins to take shape. Learning. ly coined by German educator, Alexander Integrating Technology bout this time each year Music The practice of teaching is something Kapp, in 1833 but it was American edu- EDnet receives many calls and Working with hundreds of schools, deal- Looking ahead Moving from Enhancement to that has interested me for many years, cator, Malcolm Knowles who made use of emails relating to budgets. Some ing with different curricula and witness- Transformation although I am not a professional teacher. the term in 1967 to explain his theory of A ing best practice, innovative ideas and An invaluable insight into the impact are about using up what’s left in this adult education. It is built on 4 principles: engaged students is stimulating to say of technology in education over the Dr. Ruben R. Puentedura Yet most of my professional life has in- year’s bucket, but the bulk of enquiries the least. But seeing the opposite end of next 1-5 years. volved teaching. Early in my career, like 1. Adults need to be involved in the are about gathering information for the the spectrum and the lack of leadership many people, I was expected to teach planning and evaluation of their in- budget for the year ahead. If you are for- in some schools can be frustratingly sad. Substitution other adults about things I was suppos- struction. tunate enough to have a department that 2017 Horizon Report: edly knowledgeable about … the technical is well equipped and humming along this The K-12 edition Technology acts as a direct tool So... back to the planning. side of electronic musical instruments, 2. Experience (including mistakes) pro- is usually a straight forward process. In substitute, with no functional Published by the New Media hifi equipment and professional sound re- vides the basis for learning activities. this case, when it comes to technology, it While Music EDnet specifically focuses change. on technology ... basically anything involv- Consortium. inforcement systems for Yamaha. It was 3. Adults are most interested in learn- may include software updates, replacing ing ICT, classroom technology, music, au- a great experience and I know that the ing subjects that have immediate rel- some older items and adding some new Short-Term Trends: Driving edtech ugmentation dio, video, media, lighting and electric/ A learning was very much in both directions. evance to their job or personal life. things that will enhance student learn- adoption in K-12 education for the electronic instruments and amplification next one to two years Technology acts as a direct tool Of course, teaching adults is different ing and engagement... such as expanding 4. Adult learning is problem-centred your BYOD resources. ... our planning formula is equally effec- substitute, with functional im- to teaching children. Teaching adults ►► Coding as a Literacy provement. rather than content-oriented. tive if applied to your instrumental/band seemed somewhat natural … something More likely however, you are faced with program and acoustic instruments and ►► Rise of STEAM Learning I assumed was to do with adult learners This explains a lot about what motivates odification the ongoing challenge of wanting far related infrastructure. M being self-motivated to learn and gener- adults to learn and what they expect to more than you know you will get, trying Download the preview or full version Technology allows for a signifi- ally wanting to be there. get from it … and quickly! We want to to balance repairs and maintenance with If you are building a new program and (published August 2017) cant task redesign. learn it now and use it tomorrow. a desire to upgrade and/or establish the have major capital works on the agen- As it happens, I was only partly correct da (e.g. new performing arts facilities, http://bit.ly/2tXl015 Pedagogy is much longer term and, while facilities you really need. as adults do not always want to attend school building program) the earlier we Redefinition supposedly child-centred, is guided by Professional Learning (or Professional So how do you break this nexus and get get involved the better. We are able to sign flaws. It is far too common for us to the teacher. It is the teacher who is ex- Technology allows for the crea- Development as it is sometimes referred your department on a progressive track advise on architectural plans, classroom see finished facilities that have consider- pected to facilitate what students learn, tion of new tasks, previously in- to). In fact, PD has been described as for the future? ergonomics that maximise efficiency and able shortcomings... and too late or ex- and when, based on long term objectives conceivable “something you have done to you” where- we can work with your architect and en- pensive to fix. (curriculum outcomes). But today even It’s all about having the right plan! as PL is something you choose to partici- gineers before designs are finalised. All young students can easily learn about al- If you are wanting to prepare a plan for pate in. At Music EDnet we work with teachers this can amount to considerable cost sav- most anything that interests them mak- across Australia and New Zealand pre- ings and/or the avoidance of major de- ...continued on page 5 Teachers are no different when it comes ing it a real challenge to “teach” children to their own learning and we see this re- the “what” defined by the curriculum … flected in the feedback from our DAYTiME particularly when they may not appreciate conferences. While it is great to see the “why”. the overwhelming support for DAYTiME (around 90% rate the educational value As pedagogies and technologies are as high or very high), there are always evolving I have noticed some of the prin- some who have different perceptions. And ciples of adult learning being used by frankly, it is these responses that contrib- teachers to better motivate young stu- ute most to our own learning … even if we dents to learn what they need to know cannot meet the expectations of every- today. Making the “what” interesting and one. engaging student learning beyond the classroom with appropriate technologies However you label it, life-long learning is is published by are becoming hallmarks of today’s best essential for progress. But are the percep- practising teachers. Music Education Network Pty Ltd tions of adult learners all that different to PO Box 1013 children as learners? Enjoy! Blackwood SA 5051 Pedagogy is defined as the art and sci- Keith Huxtable T: 1300 723 700 ence of teaching children and most teach- Managing Director Music EDnet Creation Stations F: 08 8270 1366 ers are well versed in its relevance. In a [email protected]

3 Technology update

PreSonus Faderport 8

Control Surface for any DAW: Studio One, Pro Tools, Logic, Cubase & more

PreSonus Studio One V3.5 school computers (on a network). Single academic, multi-seat and unlimited site licenses now available. PreSonus Studio One software is fast be- Studio One lets you use Pro Tools, coming a major player amongst record- Cubase, or Logic key commands, Unlimited site licenses: ing industry professionals. Both the Pro as well as Studio One and user- Studio One Artist...... $962 +GST and Artist versions are also growing in created key commands. Studio One Pro...... $3850 +GST popularity with music educators. There www.musicednet.com/studioone is a free version available called Prime Studio One Pro supports the highest lev- ... a basic version limited to 2 channel el of audio production with 41 native ef- Contact Music EDnet for more hardware for recording/playback, but fects, the superb Melodyne Essentials 4 details and other licenses still an excellent introduction for younger time and pitch correction, 5 virtual instru- 1300 723 700 students. Be aware however that licens- ments and support for third party sample [email protected] ing makes the free version unsuitable for libraries.

Planning beyond next year your way. You now have a clear mission look at funding options, budgets and ...continued from page 3 to realise your vision and you will begin other initial constraints. All this will de- to infect others with your enthusiasm. termine the priorities and time line to im- Believe me, it rubs off on colleagues and plement your plans. It may take several your students. years to complete, but it will get there. And this is a far better outcome than the Next, you take stock of where you are drudgery of compromise in our earlier now and detail all that is required to scenario. reach your goal. This will include a detailed list of software, hardware (includ- Do you ever really ing computers and network/power needs PreSonus Studio One achieve your vision? and of course . In ses. Of course for students this will help etc.), furniture and everything else, such Studio One fact it comes bundled with build their understanding as they become as staffing/training, and space (class- If planned well you will almost certainly Artist he new Faderport 8 from PreSonus version (see opposite) which will familiar with the workflow. room, performance area/studio etc.). It achieve your goals. But in reality your vi- is just the thing to add to your multi- meet the needs of most senior second- While many of the controls are optimised may well add up to a small fortune, but sion should be part of your annul plan- channel Digital Audio Workstation ... ary curricula, including VET Cert III Tech for Studio One software, they can be eas- don’t be put off. If your vision was based ning process, evolving on a continuous T Production. and with it the opportunity for students ily customised for other DAWs. on the criteria mentioned earlier it is jus- 3-5 year cycle. Change is a given and to experience the practical advantages of The 8 motorised faders can page through tifiably appropriate. technology in particular sets a brisk pace working with real faders and controls in- The Faderport 8 connects to a Mac or PC any number of tracks and the back-lit for change. You just need to keep instead of a mouse and QWERTY keyboard. via USB and requires no driver installa- From here it is a matter of gaining sup- scribble strip across the top displays formed of trends and best practice ... not tion as it is class compliant. port for your vision and this will require an existing department/facility then the that hard to do and it can be incredibly A well designed control surface, as is the track name and number, pan position leadership and, importantly, an ability to timing is not so critical. It is more about motivating. Faderport 8, is also a great tool to assist and a graphical representation of any se- Highly recommended for the deal with micro-politics in your school. stepping back, looking at curriculum ob- students in understanding signal flow, lected parameter ... great when adjusting studio Control Room. You need to gain the support of school jectives, class sizes (all year levels) and Ready to plan beyond manage multiple channels and/or pa- plug-ins or other track settings. leaders, colleagues and maybe the gov- rameters at a time and making automa- Available now...... $720 +GST establishing, in the first instance, a vision the next budget? Getting around is quite straight forward erning council or board, but it can be tion a breeze. www.musicednet.com/faderport8 for your department ... ignoring budgets, for anyone familiar with live sound mixing done and it is well worth the effort. And space, timetables, staffing or any other in terms of work flow with convenient but- Contact Music EDnet realising that this is all part of an ongoing Contact Music EDnet The Faderport 8 will work with virtually constraints. any current DAW software ... including tons that quickly switch the faders across 1300 723 700 and dynamic process is key. 1300 723 700 Once you have a vision you are well on [email protected] Pro Tools, Logic, Cubase and Ableton ... tracks, aux sends, VCAs and master bus- [email protected] Once this is done you can then start to

4 5 Music EDnet Library

Video Recording for Music Education : Choosing the right gear for your needs Sony PXW-X70 Professional Camcorder with David Dowling ed control over the video ince the advent of digital video quality audio recorders that if you want to zoom in on technology, video recording has be- include HD video and the Zoom Q8 a solo for example. Only come a very complex area for the audio quality is truly pro- S Camcorder the Q8 has basic digital consumer to understand. Most consum- fessional quality. zoom capabilities (not opti- er level cameras claim to offer similar re- Music EDnet In practice, if you place cal), so quality of the video sults, and virtually all are capable of “Full $530 +GST these cameras correctly for will decrease in this case. HD” (or even 4K) ... terms that simply re- quality audio recording you Although in good light condi- fer to the resolution only and can have will find the wide-angle vid- tions it is minimal. very different levels of quality. Not to eo should correspond very mention audio , which is rarely men- well in framing the subject Priority #2 - Flexible tioned, and the more you are recording ... whether a video options solo performer (closer) or a large en- When you want more con- semble (frame the entire ensemble). trol of the video, particularly But they are not intended to be used optical zoom to retain video from the back of a large auditorium. quality, then most consum- Both the Q4 and the Q8 have high er level camcorders are fine. quality stereo condenser microphones It’s important to note that on board. they will not compare to the Zoom Q4/Q8 in terms of on- The Q8 adds two XLR mic/line inputs board audio quality, howev- at the rear and input gain control on- er, there are ways of achiev- board for each. This means you could ing both good video and capture the front of house ambience technical aspects that would only con- audio if you are prepared of a performance with the camera’s on- fuse further (but determine the final re- to separate the processes board mics, along with hanging a couple sult). and edit the final video on a to choose a higher level camcorder than mics closer to the performance and con- of good quality condenser mics over key computer. has an external stereo microphone input nect to the camcorder by a long cable ... The first thing to do is to ignore all the areas on stage, with both connected to ... or move up to a professional level cam- or use a wireless option (contact Music hype and ask the following question: the camera via XLR cables. While moni- In this case you use a separate digital Priority #1 - High quality audio corder that will allow professional micro- EDnet for further advice). toring the incoming sound through your audio recorder, such as a Zoom H4n or “What do I really need this video camera phones to be connected, usually via XLR In general, one important requirement headphones connected to the camera, Zoom H6, and then sync to the video dur- To go to the next level, with external XLR for?” inputs with phantom power available (for stands out for music education use ... you can control the input gain of these ing editing. Because both sources are inputs, you will find Sony, Canon and condenser mics). Some common answers for music educa- good audio. extra mics for optimum recording results digital you will find they can be synced Panasonic (and others) will provide out- relatively easily ... and you can also use a tors may be: Most video cameras under $1500 don’t – all inside the one camera with no need Currently the lowest cost camcorder with standing professional results ... but will for an external audio mixing device. great application called PluralEyes (Mac an external mic input is the Panasonic be around $3000+. Beyond that, the sky ►► To record rehearsals for offer great audio recording, but there are or PC) which virtually does it for you. HC-V770M. Add a Rode Stereo Video Mic is the limit. spontaneous playback and two that stand out from the pack in this The Zoom Q4 and Q8 are certainly the Pro and you have a great general pur- feedback in the classroom. regard. The Zoom Q4 and the Zoom Q8. recommended options for recording vid- Priority #3 - High quality audio pose video recording setup. But keep in Contact Music EDnet Both are simple point and shoot cam- eo with high quality audio relatively close and video in a single take mind that for good audio you must still be for further advice ►► For assessment or moderation. eras with no optical zoom functionality, to the performers. But you have limit- that record video in high-defini- By far the simplest solution when you located in a sweet spot in the audience. 1300 723 700 ►► To record live performances want to quickly produce a video with both The back of a large hall won’t sound in a hall or auditorium. tion (HD) through a fixed wide- [email protected] angle lens. In fact they are ac- high quality audio and flexible video is great. In that case you need to place the ►► To be used in a media production. tually better described as high 2017 Keynote, Session Rode Stereo Video Mic Pro Contact recordings now Music EDnet available Panasonic HC-V770M www.musicednet.com/daytime2017 Camcorder

6 7 Cover Story

Debunking the strange side of Ableton

with Johann Dreyer

hen doing music technology on the market. The endless possibilities strument or effect and the audio or midi Session view presentations one of the most and workflow become very obvious very component of the track depending on Wcommon questions, asked by quickly. which track is selected. secondary school teachers, is about im- 5 steps that will help you and If you click on a MIDI clip the piano roll will ap- plementing Ableton into their curriculum. pear. If you click on an audio clip the waveform Particularly, which five things to show your students to get started editor will appear. their students to get them started with Read Chapter 4 – Live Concepts Session View the program. 1 When you’re in the In session view the tracks are repre- For anyone who has worked with con- Ableton program, sented in a vertical fashion with sever- Arrange view ventional DAW’s, the first sight of a new you can access the al “clips”, followed by the audio routing, Ableton session could be confusing, manual by click- monitoring, sends, panning and finally When you drag a Drum Rack into the MIDI clip and support through the Ableton Live daunting or perhaps even scary! I know ing the “Help” drop the fader module (rec/solo/track on/off When one starts “dropping” these instru- the piano notes will be replaced with drum User groups, which is a great network- for me personally it was a case of open- down in the toolbar. included in fader module). ments and effects into a track they ap- sounds from the chosen Drum Rack. ing the program, staring at the session Go to “Read the Live pear in the bottom part of the screen. ing platform to meet other producers and Building Instrument Racks view screen for about 3 minutes, and Manual”, and then Think of this view as your sketch pad, 5 see how they produce music. playing with different ideas, sequences The signal runs from left to right and will then closing the program, instantly mov- Chapter 4. This chap- In Australia see http://bit.ly/2f6FrTU and arrangements. be processed accordingly. Ableton will ing it to the too hard basket. Fast forward ter covers the very basic functions like As noted in Step 3 you can place any and 3 months and I gave it another go, this automatically put the instrument at the There is a lot of detail that has not been finding sounds, instruments, buttons Each cell can be a different variation of as many effects and dynamic processors time I lasted about 5 minutes trying to start of this “chain” but how you process discussed or touched on in this article, and/or functions. It will teach you about the same instrument, noting that only as you wish into the signal path of your generate sound; but again, a “no go”!! the signal post instrument is what makes and I hope to delve into more specifics in the basic concepts of Ableton, and even one cell in a vertical line can play at any track. This is the moment that wizard sta- Ableton fun! future articles! Then a close friend, who is a certified about mapping parameters to external given time. tus can be achieved! Ableton trainer, explained some basics hardware and exporting audio. To the right in the Master Section we You are able to group effects together For more info about Ableton, that led me to create this “secret” code Another great function that compliments have a play button with numbers. This and then chain different groups together, including education licenses that cracks Ableton for beginners. this process is the “Info View” that is ac- is known as the Master Scenes and this as well as map macros to hardware con- contact Music EDnet Step 1 - Read Chapter 4 of the manual cessible at the bottom left hand of the button will launch all clips in the horizon- trollers or have them automated by other screen. When your cursor hovers over a tal lines. effects. (Live Concepts): 1300 723 700 This will familiarize you with all the as- Any number of clips can play together This is where the real power of Ableton [email protected] pects (concepts) and elements that make within the horizontal aspect (they don’t shines through and deserves a more de- Ableton tick. It’s not too detailed, just have to be in line). tailed explanation than this article can enough to put everything into perspec- afford. Info view Arrange View tive. Instruments and effects are processed from Left The arrange view is the more tradition- to Right Where to now? Step 2 – Learn the 4 main environments al timeline view with tracks in a horizon- There are a lot of really good resources Programming MIDI Fancy word for screens and the shortcuts tal fashion. Both time (min:sec) and bars 4 that students can tap into for inspiration that navigate between them. and beats metering is available at the top and tips: and bottom of the arrangement screen The simplest way to start programming Step 3 – Drag instruments and effects YouTube: “Pointblank” and “Dubspot” al- respectively. MIDI is to double click in a MIDI track into tracks. button or area, there will be a descrip- ways have a great range of intro videos tion of the functionality of that item. This You can import or record audio or MIDI clip while in Session view. The MIDI clip and genre specific tips and tricks. piano Notice how some are not ‘allowed’ in cer- function can be accessed with [?] short- in either view! The same goes for mixing will appear and you will see the roll Lynda.com: One of the online courses on tain tracks. cut or by clicking on the disclosure trian- and effects processing, whatever works that will enable you to start pencil- ling in the sequence you wish to play. You offer is the Ableton Essential Training Step 4 – Start programming MIDI. gle at the very bottom. better for your personal workflow! can either double click with your mouse that covers over 8 hours of tutoring bro- Step 5 – Build your first “Instrument The Live Environments Loading Instruments and Effects or use the [b] short cut to use the pencil ken into very manageable sections touch- 2 3 ing on everything Ableton and music pro- rack”. tool. duction. This normally gets a bit confusing but Johann Dreyer Some call this wizard status Loading instruments and effects is as When you hit play on the clip, the MIDI Johann Dreyer is the Campus Manager at with a bit of practice using the shortcut easy as dragging and dropping them into sequence will start playing back and Online Magazines: “Attack Mag”, SAE Institute - Adelaide. Teacher, Electronic These 5 steps could be explained and il- keys, you will master the Ableton visual a track, but keep an eye on the cursor! looping. The velocity and quantization “Music Radar”, “Music Technology” and Music Producer, DJ and Sound designer ... Johann Graduated with a Bachelor in Audio lustrated in great detail, but can also be universe. can be modified to give your MIDI a more “Electronic Music” are all great resources covered in 2-4 sessions depending on For example when you attempt to drop Production, holds a Cert IV in TAE and a natural feel. with free plug-ins and step-by-step tutori- Marketing Management Higher Diploma. Ableton has 2 main arrangement views an instrument onto an audio track you the speed of delivery and the allocat- Clip MIDI Piano Roll als. ed time slots. I have found that for most and a dual focus view that you can have will see the global “No Entry” sign. Johann has been teaching Music produc- Face to Face: SAE Creative Institute tion and Technology based performance at high school students engaged in a 3-day displayed in any combination and change Ableton will allow you to drop the in- easily with your [tab] and [shift]+[tab] (Adelaide) offers a 10-week short course SAE (School of Audio Engineering) for the last short course, by day 2 they will be able correct item onto a track but will then 5 years and created the Ableton Live User in Ableton. to create tracks, program MIDI and insert buttons. change the track to suit. groups in Byron Bay and the Gold Coast. effects on those tracks. [tab] – switches between Session and Audio Tracks: Only audio effects and au- There are also other institutes through- He specializes in Ableton and Hardware inte- Arrangement out Australia and New Zealand that offer gration into performance and production. I have found that once these basic tasks views. These are the top 2 dio can be dropped onto them. a broad range of Ableton and production Johann has released and performs live elec- are illustrated, then implemented and views that show the vertical clips or the MIDI Tracks: Only instruments, audio ef- based courses. tronic music with “We Play Machines” and understood by the students, the program traditional time line. This is arrangement focused information. fects and midi effects can be dropped “AfrikanAmerikan” as well as his personal starts to unfold into one of the most in- LoCoJo project. onto them. It is also worth mentioning that there are tuitive and fun music production toolkits [shift]+[tab] – switches between the in- Certified trainers who offer private tuition

8 9 Support & Training

EDnet TV Video Tutorials

with David Dowling

in these tools to get started with them as quickly as possible, and to ensure they begin to understand the true power of automation, connectivity and communi- cation they offer. You see, much like the ingenious automated reporting & marking and easy yet powerful syllabus David Dowling creation tools offered by Rising Support & Training Coordinator Software’s Auralia & Musition [email protected] software, which for some time now has offered cloud hosting for ave here, to take you through the its database, such applications latest cinematic additions to our are as much about helping the Dfast growing EDnet TV channel teacher as they are about provid- on Vimeo, many of which are also to be ing an engaging and fun learn- found on the Video Tutorials page of our ing experience for students. The website (under the Support menu). MusicFirst Online Classroom To begin in chronological order, since provides integrated automat- markbook joining Music EDnet in the middle of ic updating (now re- gradebook 2016, my focus has shifted to the ferred to as the ) with clouds…not all of them, just the big many of its applications, along digital one where you’ll find web-based with many pre-prepared lesson wonders like the MusicFirst Online resources on a variety of music Music EDnet TV production and music technology subjects. Classroom (MFOC) learning management An insight into our live production, recording and streaming system, NoteFlight for browser based Understanding how these fea- score-writing, and Soundation for audio tures work and where to access and MIDI recording and sequencing – all them allows you to reduce your n 2016 Music EDnet introduced EDnet The PA system includes a small digital ter (with any necessary adaptors) to the with no requirement for software instal- marking and lesson planning TV specifically aimed at developing a audio mixer, powered speaker system event projector and to the video produc- lation! workload significantly. Irange of useful resources for music and wireless mics for the presenter(s) for tion mixer via Cat6. The live output (video education. Beyond making short tuto- both the PA and video recording. The au- & audio) from the video mixer is sent to To accompany this on the primary It is now entirely possible for such sophis- rials, we also wanted to capture some dio from the presenter’s laptop/iPad and an HD video recorder (using SSDs) as school side is the new release of ticated things to be hosted in the cloud of the great keynotes and sessions at other gear is split (via 2 x DI boxes) to the well as a laptop that captures in MP4 and MusicFirst Junior. Like it’s big and as a result, the technology required DAYTiME conferences (and other events) PA mixer and the video production mixer. also encodes the video to send to a lives- brother, the MFOC, MusicFirst for your music and music-tech programs and make them more widely available. tream server on the web (and live on the Junior is also a learning man- Live sound is mixed on a laptop (and/or is more accessible than ever for you and Music EDnet website). EDnet TV your students. agement system offering similar is also a model for educa- iPad) via a local network that is connect- markbook and software integra- tors wishing to create in-house video re- ed to the digital audio mixer. All EDnet TV audio and video gear Like all new technologies and application automation, but with a very sources at school, especially to support is available from Music EDnet tions, there’s a little you need to un- Live video is captured via two profession- specific focus on primary level music keyboards are conveniently acces- flipped/blended classroom strategies. derstand before you can harness the al camcorders connected to the video 1300 723 700 music education. sible via a slide-out tray under the desk, real power of what they have to offer. It The diagram above shows our live video production mixer. Video from the present- and are positioned at the correct playing [email protected] is with this in mind that I’ve been on Closely aligned and integrated with this and audio production at DAYTiME events. er’s laptop/iPad is split via a VGA split- height. All that annoying cabling associ- a quest to simplify and localise some (it is an option in MFOC also, but is in MusicFirst Junior ated with computer music workstations video-based tutorial materials that are by default) is the re- is neatly managed and secure in a cable direct, moderately paced and informa- emergence of the popular composition rack under the desk. You can check out tive, to help teachers who are interested software for younger students known as Groovy Music. MusicFirst Junior is sim- the video that shows how easy these are to assemble, so you can consider them ple to use, especially from the student Session recordings now available perspective, and we’ve localised the in- for your next computer music lab or inde- troduction video so you can find out what pendent workstation installation. Video Tutorials Most of the DAYTiME 2017 sessions that were recorded over it’s all about on our page That’s all for the moment, but keep an the series are now available on the Music EDnet website. We anytime. eye on the EDnet TV space as there’s are also adding sessions recording from the DAYTiME 2016 serries and several are already available. Finally, and back in the ‘physical’ world, plenty more to come! To watch any of the recorded sessions go to we’ve also created a comprehensive in- Contact David and the support structional video for the assembly of www.musicednet.com/daytime2017 our Creation Station computer music team at Music EDnet Note that you must be registered on our website to access desks. Music EDnet Furniture is de- [email protected] this page ... and membership is FREE for educators. signed by Music EDnet and manufac- tured in Australia. The classroom-fo- 1300 723 700 An All Sessions Pass for DAYTiME 2017 series. cused Creation Stations ensure that Only $44 with unlimited views for 3 months!

10 11 Pedagogy

Project Based Learning in Music *NOTE: NCEA is the NZ secondary education certificate, smilar to HSC, VCE, with Duncan Ferguson SACE, WACE, TCE etc.

In New Zealand so many of our pro- drafts and demonstrate progress. grammes of teaching (in any subject) are At regular intervals students need to centred around Achievement Standards. write up their progress on a public We look at the assessment, and design blog (Wordpress.com is a great courses around teaching to the assess- website for public blogs). Making ment. Of course, all good practition- it public makes them accountable. ers know this is not the way to do it! But If they know other people are it’s easier said than done when we have following their progress, it will pressure from school management with provide extra incentive for them to NCEA targets and magazines like North get the work done. It also allows and South and Metro comparing schools’ time for them to do reflection on achievement data. their progress, which is crucial. There is plenty about PBL on the internet, 3. Creating music for a purpose, for an and websites like Edutopia are full of audience, adds greater motivation great articles and advice about incorpo- than doing this for a single rating PBL. But there is surprisingly little assessment. Lock in dates for the out there about how to do it within the events they’re organising, or delivery context of a high school music course. of their project at the start of the year and get them to use a calendar. PBL has transformed my music pro- It may also be valuable getting a gramme. It gives students a focus, it mo- here is currently massive change wall calendar up in your class with tivates them, it develops personal as well going on in the music industry the events and assessment dates as collaborative skills and at the end they and in music education. With new written in. Start each week with a don’t just have credits against their name T catch up and reminder about how degrees like those offered by Massey on a piece of paper, they have something University in Wellington, and with new far away important dates are. tangible they can show to others and be initiatives in cross-curricular arts cours- proud of. es like what Victoria University are of- Some of the projects that my fering (http://www.victoria.ac.nz/ Here are some tips I’ve found for students are working on at the Singer/Songwriter Night – Each year back and forth relationship as students When students get to year 13 they of- news/2017/01/victoria-university-cen- a successful PBL programme moment as part of our Winter Music Festival we adapt their music to better fit the dance, ten want to focus on their own projects, run a night for songwriters. It is a simi- and vice versa. The final performance such as making an album. Here is an tre-to-open-in-the-heart-of-the-miramar- Chamber Music Night – The ‘classical’ 1. Make sure students take the time to lar deal to the Chamber Music night but will take place outside, with a PA system album that one of my recent graduates creative-industry), school music pro- students are composing music for cham- think through what they love most it will be a different group of students or- and light show/projection system. produced while at school for his major grammes need to adapt to better prepare ber trios to be performed on a Chamber about music, and what interests ganising it – most likely those that see project https://www.facebook.com/ their students. We need to focus less on Music Night. This night is our annual them most about the music industry. themselves as songwriters instead of TheHazeBandNZ/ assessment and more on student learn- lead up concert to the National Chamber Any projects that they can come up classical musicians. You can see what ing. Music Competition so it provides a great Offering courses in PBL has reinvigor- with (as opposed to be suggested they did in last year’s concert here: opportunity for students to perform their ated our department. Students are One way I’ve found to put the focus back to them by the teacher) will have http://tinyurl.com/STACstudioset on learning, and developing music cours- greater ‘buy in’. Students have new compositions. Students are respon- very excited about the opportunities, Rock Night – Same deal as above but es that are good for the students (but ownership of what they are doing. sible for making promotional posters/ are highly motivated, and are then may only be partly assessed by *NCEA) websites/social media presence. They on a different night leading up to the very proud to share what they’ve pro- is to incorporate Project Based Learning 2. Provide marker points through the are to organise catering and ticketing. Smokefree Rockquest. duced with our school community and year where students have to submit They are to organise presenters and de- their families. It also provides regular (PBL). EDM Night – For those students that velop a programme. They are also going exposure for our music department, want to compose in electronic genres, to setup a recording system and record which works great when it comes time or perform with devices like Ableton the night for mixing at a later stage. And to request an increase in budgets to Push, this year we are offering a pro- because we can’t ignore the NCEA aspect buy more recording equipment and in- ject based around organising an EDM to it they will be getting these credits (I’ll struments! night. What is interesting about this show examples of level 2 Standards): Once again, multiple Achievement though is that they are going to collabo- Standards will be able to be assessed, ►► Composition – 6 credits rate with dancers in the school who will not just from music, but other Performing choreograph to the music. This will be a ►► Performance (group) – 4 credits Arts domains. ►► 27703 (mixing) – 4 credits ►► 27658 (sequencing & Duncan Ferguson Duncan Ferguson notation), for mock ups of their Duncan is the Head of Music at St Andrew’s setup in 2002 to provide ear training, theory/ composition – 4 credits College in Christchurch, New Zealand. In ad- score reading and music technology resources dition to this he develops Music Technology primarily for New Zealand high school teachers. ►► Total: 18 credits – if they also exemplars for the New Zealand Qualifications Resources he has created have been supplied Authority and regularly runs teacher Professional to over 95% of New Zealand high schools. do Solo Performance at another Development courses for teachers all over New stage plus an external Standard or Zealand. You can follow his blog on the latest trends in two (like Score Reading & Aural) Music Technology in Education at learningideas- Duncan is also an Apple Distinguished Educator nz.com and follow him on Twitter @learningideas they will have a very full course. and the Managing Director and resource de- veloper for Learning Ideas Ltd, a company he Duncan is a member of the Music EDnet Team.

12 13 Technology update EDnet Services

Noteflight + Soundtrap Music Technology Portal

Music Creation on-line that combines notation, MIDI and audio Keeping Track of your school’s technology resources and more. A great combination for music education on any device* *NOTE: Device must be on-line. where you can seamlessly share MIDI In Soundtrap: oftware licenses, downloads, setup notes, con- files between them creating some great nection diagrams, planning documents and possibilities for music education. Smuch more ... having all the things you need to keep track of your music technology resources is a Note that this integration does not ap- Making the Most of MIDI huge help in managing a music department. With a se- ply to the FREE versions. Using MIDI is an easy and fun way of cure, on-line Music Technology Portal you can access Besides the large range of additional ca- transferring files, and here are two tips useful information when you need it ... such as the au- pabilities that come with the education for achieving the best results: dio and MIDI setting in your school’s software, or down- licenses you should be aware that the load a PDF for students to use in class. It is also very FREE versions are not COPPA/FERMA 1. Instrument Selection convenient for IT to quickly check your current licenses compliant. While there is no legal re- MIDI will transfer pitch, durations, and in- along with serials and other necessary codes that are quirement to comply in New Zealand you strument names. There are many differ- required for installing and re-installing ... or upgrading may be putting students at risk on-line and expanding a license. ent instrument and sound options in both Software audio & with the FREE versions. programs, so depending on a number of The Schools Portal on the Music EDnet web- PDFs of software MIDI settings The direct integration between Noteflight factors you may need to tweak the instru- site is a FREE service provided to all schools licenses (Notes tab) and Soundtrap makes the creative pro- ment or sound you want. This is actually that we work with ... and unique for each (others under Online ith BYOD programs in schools Classroom tab) now common place the choice cess of song writing easier and efficient. one of the main benefits of the integra- school. It is a secure area that requires a tion, allowing you to play with different login and, subject to approval, is enabled for of appropriate cloud-based soft- Some examples Planning W sounds and effects! all music and ICT staff who register on our ware is essential, particularly if students documents have a wide range of devices ... includ- ►► See your Soundtrap song as 2. Duration Affects Notation website. (Planning tab) Noteflight notation so live players ing laptops, tablets (iPads, Androids) and Keep track of more than just Chrome books. can perform your work. A Noteflight score is naturally quan- tized into note durations, such as software The Chrome browser is currently your ►► Remix the audio of your Noteflight quavers,crotchets, minims or semi- The information added to your Music best option for music applications due score with Soundtrap instruments. breves. When creating files in Soundtrap, Technology Portal allows for the management to the superior audio capabilities. In fact ►► Export MIDI drum parts from your MIDI can start and stop anywhere and ongoing planning of music technology be- some applications will ONLY operate Connection Soundtrap into Noteflight and on the piano roll, which allows for great yond ICT, such as PA and live sound systems, smoothly with Chrome. flexibility in scoring. However, when ex- diagrams copy to an existing score. amplification equipment, electronic instruments, (Notes tab) Noteflight porting from Soundtrap to Noteflight you is the top on-line application ►► Add Soundtrap loops to the audio and video recording equipment and more. for notation and is capable of meeting will see the best results if you first ensure playback of a Noteflight melody. Moving to a new school? Avoid costly mistakes and get most secondary curricula needs across that your MIDI starts and stops with the up to speed fast Australia and New Zealand to year 10 (or ►► Learn and reinforce music durations you want. Otherwise, you may see notation with multiple semi-quaver above in some cases). Noteflight shares notation by seeing Soundtrap One of the frequent challenges teachers often face when rests and dotted notes. some familiar short-cuts with Sibelius files in Noteflight notation. moving to a new school is finding out what resources they and can also transfer files between other ►► Use Soundtrap to collaborate Available from Music EDnet have ... and can be particularly difficult in a one-teacher de- notation applications via MusicXML ... in- partment. We are often amazed at how many licenses some with players to record and Noteflight Learn...... $3 +GST cluding Sibelius, Finale and Dorico. schools have accrued for the same software ... not only has mix your Noteflight score. (per user per year + base fee $70 +GST) this meant unnecessary expense, it can also cause problems Soundtrap is an outstanding on-line Simple export Soundtrap Education...... $330 +GST for IT as they may have multiple serials and different versions DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) applica- (for 50 users per year. Contact Music EDnet for or license types to contend with. Sibelius is probably the most tion that is similar to Garageband and Take any score in Noteflight or song in 51+ users) common example where we see this occurring as a school may Mixcraft with a host of loops, virtual in- Soundtrap (Premium or EDU), then use Also available with the MusicFirst Online have older multi-seat licenses (some stand-alone, some net- struments and effects for MIDI sequenc- the export option to open your score in Classroom and can integrate with Google work) and maybe the odd single license that has been ing and audio recording. the other program. Classroom. Software forgotten about. downloads In Noteflight: More info from Music EDnet Seamless Integration Not only can these all be checked and upgraded and (where available) Both Noteflight and Soundtrap recent- 1300 723 700 merged into a single multi-seat license by Music EDnet ly announced a collaborative integration [email protected] (we have access to virtually all music software license information due to our close working relationships with publishers), but we then ensure all the current license information is added to This MIDI part was played into Soundtrap with a keyboard, and the timing and dura- your Music Technology Portal. This means that a new teach- To get started, all you need to do is register on the Music EDnet tion are just a little off. Resulting in the file looking like this in Noteflight. er can very quickly see what he or she has available and won’t website as an educator. We will then confirm your registration make costly mistakes buying new licenses when they may not and welcome you as an EDnet Member (FREE). If you are at a need them or can simply upgrade or expand if required. school that already has a Music Technology Portal, we will en- Setting up your Music Technology Portal able your access. If not, then we may create a Portal for your school (particularly secondary schools) in anticipation of work- Music EDnet automatically sets up a Music Technology Portal ing with you into the future. when we begin working with a school. But we can also set up Here is a Soundtrap track that has been adjusted to line up with the grid. Results in a a Music Technology Portal earlier following a request from a To register for FREE membership visit nice, clean notation part. music teacher or IT staff. In these cases the portal is ready to www.musicednet.com/register build the resources and information when we begin working For more info call 1300 723 700 or with your school in the future. email [email protected]

14 15 The Back Page

Software, software, software from Music EDnet

A wide range of software, trials, special offers and invaluable advice.

oftware (or apps if you prefer) ... whether installed on a computer or Sbased in the cloud ... it is software that fundamentally determines what you use your device to do. And software is a huge part of what Music EDnet supplies and supports. In fact we are the largest supplier of music software by far across Australia and New Zealand and the ONLY supplier that has in-house tech support and training backed by decades of industry and educational experience. Music EDnet has a number of special offers for term 3, with some extending to the end of the year. When purchasing any multi-seat license from us we will also check what your school may already have. That way you won’t be buying extra licenses that you may not need when you can upgrade instead. Not sure about which applications meet your curriculum needs? Or what hardware or device is required? Just ask Music EDnet! With so many options ... not to mention the eternal Mac vs PC debate, BYOD programs, network issues and connecting Multi-seat licenses (all available for Mac/Win) keyboards, audio interfaces and other Sibelius 8 upgrade/support (12 months)...... $36 +GST per seat gear ... we encourage you to contact us Sibelius 8 license expansion...... $164 +GST per seat and avoid the pitfalls and frustrations. We Sibelius network or multi-seat stand-alone, perpetual. Upgrade/support plan is 12 months see so many examples in schools where Pro Tools 12 (Institution/Academic)...... $350 +GST ea decisions and changes are made based Contact Pro Tools 12 upgrade/support (12 months)...... $135 +GST ea Music EDnet for on bad or insufficient information. They All Pro Tools are perpetual. Upgrade/support plan is 12 months other licenses, seats can be avoided and even big infrastruc- Studio One Artist 3.5 (unlimited site)...... $962 +GST and trials ture changes should be relatively painless Studio One Pro 3.5 (unlimited site)...... $3850 +GST ... if done correctly. Mixcraft 8 (5-24 seats)...... $42.50 +GST per seat Ableton Live 9 Intro (unlimited site)...... $1544 +GST Free trials available for Acid Music Studio 10 (5-99 seats)...... $25 +GST per seat many applications Band In A Box 2017 (5-10 seats)...... $71 +GST per seat Many applications have free trials, most with full functionality. We have listed a Cloud Trials - on request few of the popular cloud applications that ►► MusicFirst Online Classroom (includes ALL available tools such as Soundtrap, can be trialed through Music EDnet ... and Noteflight Learn, Lesono (video recording), Focus On Sound & more. with support to help answer any questions ►► Auralia & Musition Cloud. 2 months to fully test. or explain things you may encounter. ►► MusicFirst Junior. Primary classroom including Groovy Music and more.

Music Education Network Pty Limited PO Box 1013 Blackwood SA 5051 T: 1300 723 700 F: 08 8270 1366 [email protected] Australia 1300 723 700