We realize that students are being asked to use a lot of different platforms and resources at this time. The music staff has streamlined the programs we will use, so that there is consistency throughout the department. Below is a list of programs that will be utilized this semester. We have also listed resources (that are completely optional) for students if they would like to improve their audio quality for classes, private lessons, and recording assignments throughout the upcoming weeks. Please do not hesitate to email your child's teacher if you have any questions about technology and how it can support their music education.

Technology

Soundtrap
Each music student will receive a subscription to Soundtrap for the 2020-2021 school year. Soundtrap is a cloud-based digital audio workstation that can be accessed on Chromebooks and home computers. Soundtrap will be utilized often throughout the year as a means to record assignments, and create performances. Soundtrap is also available as an app that students can use on their cellular device.

Sight Reading Factory
Sight Reading Factory is an online resource for practicing individual, and ensemble sight reading skills. Instructors will have sight reading factory accounts for the 2020-2021 school year and will assign exercises during synchronous, and asynchronous learning. Students will not have individual accounts this year, but can work with directors to access practice exercises.  

MusicTheory.net
Directors will use this online resource to assign music theory assessments. Students can follow this video to learn how to submit assignments on Google Classroom. 

Edpuzzle
The music department will be using Edpuzzle to help students complete their concert reflection assignments. Edpuzzle provides self-paced learning with interactive videos.

Audio Resources

In the digital world, audio has become increasingly important to our classes. If you are looking to improve the audio quality of your recordings, private lessons, and class communication, you may want to consider investing in a USB microphone. This is of course completely optional, and no class is requiring the use of a USB mic. If you are interested in purchasing a USB mic or mic adapter for your phone. Here are some great starter options listed in no particular order. 

Under $50

Blue Snowball iCE USB Mic
"A good computer microphone is the key to quality results. So start your next project equipped with the ease and versatility that only a Snowball can provide. Add CD-quality audio to recordings for YouTube, SoundCloud and more. Improve audio quality on Skype, Twitch, FaceTime, or any other voice software. Create podcasts and add narration to home movies."

Aokeo AK-60 
"This USB condenser microphone is assembled with a professional pickup chip, and the sampling rate is up to: 192kHz / 24bit. It makes the sound picked up by the microphone smoother, clearer and more real. Is the preferred device for recording."
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"Plug and play: suitable for all systems of laptops, computers, PCs. It can easily connect your computer and Linux operating system without additional driver software or external sound card."

Fifine USB Microphone
"​It features durable metal construction and comes with its own stable tripod mount. It has a large sensitive diaphragm and it cardioid nature helps it isolate major input from minor background noise.
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The electronics are well engineered and it has zero static noise. It harbors its own input level knob to allow users to control what is recorded. It comes with an ample 5-foot USB cable and is highly compatible."

TONOR TC-777 USB Microphone​
"High-quality cardioid microphone capsule inside provides reliable and accurate pickup. Without any assembly, only need to unfold the three-legged stand directly and adjust the position of the pop filter, then it can be plug and play. The microphone stand features a 3-legged base that retracts and folds up easily."

Saramonic Mic for iPhone
"The Saramonic SmartMic is an ultra-compact condenser microphone that plugs directly into the headphone jack on your smartphone or tablet and any device with a TRRS microphone input. Even though it weighs less than an ounce, the SmartMic delivers broadcast-quality sound and dramatically improves the sound quality of the videos you shoot and the sound you capture with your audio recording apps." 

Under $100

Samson Meteor Mic
"​Meteor Mic is a portable USB studio condenser microphone for recording directly to your computer. Perfect for your home studio, Meteor Mic is also ideal for podcasting, music recording, gaming, Skype or streaming. With Meteor Mic, you can make incredible recordings that are out of this world."

CAD Audio U37 USB Studio Mic
" Large condenser microphone element for warm, rich recordings
• Cardioid pick-up pattern minimizes background noise and isolates the main sound source
• Smooth, extended frequency response is excellent for singing, speech and instruments
• -10dB overload-protection switch minimizes distortion from loud sound sources
• Bass-reduction switch reduces room noise
• Side-address design popular with broadcast, TV and recording studios
• Ten-foot USB cable for flexible"

Yeti Nano USB Condensor Mic
"YouTube videos, Twitch streaming, Skype calls and voice over work. Inspired by the #1-selling Blue Yeti USB microphone, Yeti Nano features 24-bit sound quality, a compact design, and plug ’n play operation for instant streaming with your PC or Mac. … With a no-latency headphone output and controls for headphone volume, mic mute and pickup pattern, Yeti Nano is the essential mic for today’s streamers."
These are just a few suggestions that can improve your audio quality. Please be sure to research what will work best for your setup, and feel free to reach out to directors with any questions. If you are looking for an Industry Standard Mic that comes with a larger price tag you may want to consider purchasing a(n):