Recording Arts
The Recording Arts program prepares students for careers in the modern music and audio production industry. Students build a strong foundation in music theory, digital audio technology, recording techniques, and audio engineering while also developing creative skills in songwriting and music production.
Through hands-on coursework, students learn to use professional Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs), recording equipment, microphones, mixers, and signal processing tools. The program introduces both the technical and creative sides of sound production, including studio terminology, signal flow, MIDI sequencing, audio editing, mixing, and mastering.
Students also explore the business side of the music industry, including copyright, publishing, licensing, branding, and entrepreneurial thinking. This combination of technical training and industry knowledge helps prepare students for transfer opportunities or entry-level work in audio production and related fields.
Program Information
What You’ll Study
Coursework in Recording Arts may include:
-Recording Arts Fundamentals
-Introduction to the Music Industry
-Basic Computer Skills for Musicians
-Commercial Music Theory
-Survey of Popular Music
-Computer Recording I
-Computer Recording II
-Audio Engineering I
-Audio Engineering II
-The Craft of Songwriting
Hands-On Skills
Students in the program develop skills in:
-Audio recording and editing
-Mixing and mastering
-Studio signal flow and routing
-Microphone selection and placement
-MIDI and sequencing
-Digital audio workstation proficiency
-Audio plugins and production techniques
-Songwriting and music arrangement
-Session setup and troubleshooting
-Music industry fundamentals
Possible careers in this program:
Audio Engineer, Recording Engineer, Music Producer, Live Sound Technician, Sound Designer, Mixing Engineer, Mastering Engineer, Broadcast Audio Technician, Podcast Producer, Film and Video Audio Specialist, Digital Content Creator
Why Choose Recording Arts?
Recording Arts gives students the opportunity to combine creativity with technical skill. Whether your goal is to work in a studio, produce your own music, manage live sound, or continue into a four-year program, this program helps you build practical experience for today’s audio industry.
Program Contact Information:
Lauren Bond
lbond@prcc.edu
Dr. Trevor Hunt
thunt@prcc.edu
Service
Scholarship
Each student that participates in the instrumental, vocal, and drama programs at Pearl River is eligible for a service scholarship*. Scholarships are awarded for a maximum of six semesters and do not have to be taken during consecutive semesters. Service scholarships within the Department of Fine Arts and Communications can be “stacked” with academic, other service scholarships, and State and Federal financial aid.
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