By remixing the tune within Logic Pro X, students are introduced to music production concepts through hands-on applications with a Digital Audio Workstation. For further music production exercises check out the Production Unit inside of PULSE by signing up for a create a PULSE account.   

Materials and Resources:

• Computer with Chrome, Safari or Firefox to access the PULSE website, Noteflight, and YouTube
• Logic Pro X, Garageband, or similar Digital Audio Workstation

Instructional Strategy:

1. Choosing an Appropriate Song

2. Extracting audio from YouTube and tracking BPM through a Digital Audio Workstation

3. Creating a 12-bar loop inside of Logic Pro X

4. Using a high-pass filter to extract the low end

5. Adding a 12-bar blues walking bass line and keyboard accompaniment with MIDI controller

6. Exporting a Logic file to .mov

7. Rhythmic scaffolding transcription and quantization

8. Exporting MIDI file from Logic and importing it into Noteflight

9. Synching original YouTube video with exported MIDI all within Noteflight

10. Overview of project, student performances, desired objectives and assessments

View Harold's first lesson, "Leveraging a Current Hit Song to Teach the 12-Bar Blues" here.

View Harold's second lesson, "Cultural and Technological Factors of the Blues", here.

Download the lesson material here, which includes Core Arts Standards, NY State Arts Standards, and National Standards.