FM2SOAP10 Songwriting, Arrangement and Production in Context

FM2SOAP10 Songwriting, Arrangement and Production in Context

  • Course description
    • Course Code
      FM2SOAP10
    • Level of Study
      5.2
    • Program of Study
      Sound and Music Production 2 Composition
    • Credits
      10
    • Study Plan Coordinator
      Audun Ofstad Borrmann
Teaching Term(s)
2025 Autumn
About the Course

Collaborative studio project focused on turning songs into finished recordings within set deadlines. Work is organised in mixed groups with the Sound Engineering cohort, emphasising role clarity, session planning, communication and soft skills throughout a sustained production period.

Stylistic grounding is built through studies of popular music since 1950 and production history. Genre methods and tool choices are linked to musical outcomes, with style exercises that include re-creating characteristic sounds. Composers develop arrangements for ensembles, prepare notation where relevant, and lead or assist rehearsals, including rhythm section direction.

In the studio, composers apply practical recording approaches, coordinating with engineers on production strategy. Analog subtractive synthesis and virtual instruments are also used in this course.

By the end of the course, students deliver genre-specific arrangements and productions, document decisions, and revise work in response to peer and stakeholder feedback, demonstrating the ability to plan and run a larger studio process from musical intent to completed results.

Course Learning Outcomes
Knowledge

The candidate...

  • Has knowledge of popular music history from 1950 onwards
  • Has genre knowledge
  • Understands the importance of soft skills in the music production process
  • Has insight into  roles and responsibilities in a creative musical process
  • Has insight into analog subtractive synthesis and digital representations of different types of synthesis, ie. virtual instruments
Skills

The candidate...

  • Can plan and carry out style interpretations and genre specific arrangements
  • Can plan and carry out an arrangement with musical notation for an ensemble
  • Can plan, carry out and reflect on collaboration and organisation of a musical creative studio process
  • Can plan and carry out collaboration in the songwriting process
  • Can plan and carry out various recording techniques
  • Can arrange for and carry out basic instruction of ensembles including a rhythm section
General Competence

The candidate...

  • Can plan and carry out a large studio work process with time and delivery requirements
  • Can plan and carry out arrangement for others, and act on feedback from a target group
Learning Activities

In this course, the following teaching and learning methods can be applied, but are not limited to:

  • Lecture: Educator-led presentations or activities providing knowledge, skills, or general competencies in the subject area.
  • Group work: Collaborative activities where students work together to solve problems or complete tasks.
  • Tutoring: One-on-one or small group sessions with an instructor for personalized guidance and support.
  • Student presentations: Opportunities for students to demonstrate their understanding of course material by presenting to peers.
  • Online lessons: Digital content delivered via an online learning platform.
  • Guidance: Individualized advice and direction from instructors to support students in their learning journey.
  • Workshops: Practical sessions focused on hands-on application of theoretical concepts or skills.
  • Self-study: Independent study where students engage with course material on their own without any teacher support.
Assessments
Form of assessmentGrading scaleGroupingDuration of assessment
Course Assignment
Grade A-F
Reading List

Teaching materials, reading lists, and essential resources will be shared in the learning platform and software user manuals where applicable.