Program Overview

Course Introduction

The course Introduction to Audio Programming (MUST1060) provides an introduction to text-based audio programming in Csound. This course covers the use of Csound to create digital audio effects, sampling, sound synthesis, and analysis. Additionally, it introduces the creation of plug-ins that can run in standard recording software (DAW).

Course Content

The course content includes:

• Introduction to text-based audio programming in Csound
• Creating digital audio effects
• Sampling, sound synthesis, and analysis techniques
• Implementing techniques for making plug-ins that can run in standard recording software (DAW)

Learning Outcome

Upon completing the course, the candidate should:

• Have basic knowledge of the structure and functionality of simple digital audio effects, synthesis methods, and techniques for sound analysis
• Have knowledge of basic functionality in text-based programming languages such as Csound
• Know how various sound software and controllers can communicate with each other
• Know how to structure functionality and methods in audio programming tools so that they can be easily reused and modified

Skills

The candidate should be able to:

• Apply basic techniques in text-based audio programming
• Make their own plug-ins with sound effects, sound analysis, and synthesis using Cabbage
• Compose music using their own digital instruments and sound effects
• Reflect in writing on aesthetic and technical choices related to music productions created with the tools presented in the course

Learning Methods and Activities

The course includes:

• Lectures
• Group instruction
• Exercises
• Teaching is usually conducted in Norwegian but may take place in English
• Instruction is obligatory and demands a minimum of 80% attendance
• Students will submit 6-7 weekly assignments in audio programming
• A larger individual project assignment in practical audio programming will be given, and students will present this assignment in a plenary session

Compulsory Assignments

• Satisfactory participation in compulsory classes
• Exercises

Evaluation

The home examination consists of the candidate creating an audio composition with a duration of 3-7 minutes, mainly using the tools reviewed in the course. In addition, the candidate must write a report of 4-6 pages that accounts for and reflects on various aspects of the compositional process.

Specific Conditions

Admission to a program of study is required in one of the following:

• Electronics System Design and Innovation (MTELSYS)
• Film Production (BFVPROD)
• Music Performance Studies (BMUSP)
• Music Technology (BMUST)

Required Previous Knowledge

The student must have passed the exam in MUST1050 Basic Music Technology. The course also requires admission to the Bachelor's Programme in Music Technology. 1-2 places are reserved for students at the Bachelor's programs in Film and Video Production or Music Performance Studies, or at the Master's program in Electronic Systems Design and Innovation - Acoustics.

Credit Reductions

Course code | Reduction | From
---|---|---
MUST1052 | 7.5 sp | Autumn 2015
This course has academic overlap with the course in the table above. If you take overlapping courses, you will receive a credit reduction in the course where you have the lowest grade. If the grades are the same, the reduction will be applied to the course completed most recently.

Subject Areas

• Music Technology

Course Details

• Credits: 7.5
• Level: Foundation courses, level I
• Course start: Spring 2026
• Duration: 1 semester
• Language of instruction: Norwegian
• Location: Trondheim
• Examination arrangement: Home examination