MUSI 4582

Composition II with Professor Zaccagnini focused on electronic music composition using DAWs and synthesizers as opposed to written compositions. If you are not interested in electronic music, this class is not for you. However, if you are, this class is pretty fun! The overall focus of the class is synthesis using VCV Rack. However, a good amount of time was spent going over using DAWs and mixing music. All of the concepts discussed in class were pretty interesting and focused on the inner workings of digital audio. The class grade consisted of 5 compositions, 2 quizzes, and attendance. Zaccagnini was pretty generous in grading the compositions. As long as you showed effort, you would get a high grade. The quizzes were a little confusing for me but were graded generously. I'd recommend taking this class with Zaccagnini if you're like me and interested in computer music. He knows what he's talking about and seems genuinely passionate about what he is teaching.

This course was structured around 5 two to three minute compositions as well as 2 quizzes and a participation grade. The first four compositions had guidelines to follow and the final composition was completely free to our own creativity. We learned Reaper, VCV rack, Max, and the science behind electronic music. Professor Zaccagnini was so awesome. He really knows what he’s doing and just wants you to learn and have fun learning. The structure of the class was very laid back, and everyone was very respectful to one another. I hope to take more classes with Prof Zaccagnini!