Sound Studies

Program Overview

The Sound Studies program at Manhattan College combines traditional music study with the science of sound, preparing students for careers in audio engineering, music production, and sound design. Graduates are equipped with the knowledge and skills to pursue a range of exciting careers in the sound field, including acoustician, audio sound designer, music engineer, and composer.

Program Outline

Degree Overview

The Sound Studies major at Manhattan College is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of sound and its role in various facets of life, from industry to social justice. Combining traditional music study with the science of sound, this program prepares students for careers in fields like audio engineering, music production, and sound design.

Distinguishing Features:

• Combines traditional music study with the science of sound.
• Prepares students for careers in the music industry, as well as graduate school and other future endeavors.
• Offers opportunities to collaborate with industry partners and engage in professional-style projects.
• Provides access to industry-standard equipment and software.
• Encourages involvement in music ensembles to gain performance experience and work directly with music professionals.

Overall Learning Outcomes:

• Critical approaches to sound and the listening environment.
• Structures and forms of music.
• Audio technology and skills in using various DAW programs and audio devices.
• Ear training, sound design, and musical performance on an instrument.
• Fundamentals of acoustics and sound control.

Outline

The Sound Studies program at Manhattan College offers a diverse range of courses across four core areas: Music Performance, Music Theory, Digital Audio, and Acoustics & Sound Design.

Typical Courses in the Program:

• Piano Skills I / Guitar Skills I (MUSC 208/209): Develop fundamental performance skill on either piano or guitar.
• Fundamentals of Music Theory (MUSC 220): Learn the building blocks of music, focusing on melody, harmony, and rhythm.
• Digital Audio Recording and Editing (MUSC 390): Master professional digital audio software used in recording and editing music and podcasts.
• History of Sound Recording and Audio Technology (MUSC 380): Gain historical perspective on the evolution of sound recording and technologies.
• Modern Music and the Avant Garde (MUSC 325): Dive into 20th and 21st century experimental and avant-garde styles in music.
• Contemporary Sound Design (MUSC 405): Learn advanced sound manipulation techniques for creative purposes in music, film, and other media.

Additional Features:

• individualized learning paths
• Internship opportunities with renowned organizations: Lincoln Center, Metropolitan Opera, Paul Taylor Dance Company, Grammy Magazine, SONY Music, Warner Music Group, and others.
However, based on the course descriptions, it can be inferred that assessment likely includes:
• Examinations and quizzes in various course modules to test theoretical understanding.

• Composition and production assignments: Assessing practical skills in writing music, designing sound, recording/editing audio.
• Performance assessments for musical performance classes.

• Project-based assignments: Evaluating student ability to apply learned concepts and technologies in creative projects within the sound field.

Teaching

The Sound Studies program at Manhattan College features a dedicated faculty with expertise in various areas of music, audio technology, and sound studies.

• Emphasizes personalized mentorship and small class sizes to foster an interactive learning environment.
• Includes guest speakers and workshops from industry professionals to provide students with hands-on exposure to real-world applications.
• Focuses on developing both theoretical knowledge and practical skills through collaborative projects and exercises.

Careers

The Sound Studies program at Manhattan College empowers students with the knowledge and skills to embark on a range of exciting careers in the sound field. Past student achievements and typical roles graduates pursue:

Success Stories:

• Abby Drayer ’22, Acoustic Consultant and Research Associate - Cerami and Associates
• Luis Chavez ’23, Director of Music - St. Mary's Catholic Church
• Amy Kohli ’23, Acoustic Consultant and Junior Research Associate - Cerami and Associates

Potential Career Options and Industries for Sound Studies Graduates:

• Acoustician/Sound Consultant for Interior Spaces
• Audio sound designer
• Audiologist, Music therapist, Musicologist, Music Theorist
• Music engineer/producer/technologist, Music Instrument Builder
• Composer, Professional musician
• Teacher (primary / secondary education or music therapy)
• Talent scout, Manager/Agent, Advertising Executive/Critic/PR
• Disc jockey

• Student Internships
• The Metropolitan Opera
• The Paul Taylor Dance Company
• The New Victory Theater
• The York Theatre Company
• Q104.3
• Rolling Stone
• campus ensembles:
• Opportunities to engage in community-oriented learning through projects like "Sound Map: Van Cortlandt Park"
• Access to state-of-the-art Sound Studies facilities, including a dedicated recording studio with professional gear.

• International exposure through opportunities like the “Critical Sound Studies Lab” and collaborations with international peers, scholars, and professionals.

Overall Assessment:

The Sound Studies program at Manhattan College provides a unique combination of theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and diverse course offerings, making it an appealing option for individuals passionate about exploring sound from different perspectives. The comprehensive learning experience, with its emphasis on hands-on projects, faculty mentorship, and industry connections, empowers graduates to pursue rewarding careers in various sectors within the sound field.