Music Production Communities of Practice on the World Wide Web

Alan Anderson, Lecturer, Music Department, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand (alan.anderson@stonebow.otago.ac.nz)

Allan Ellis, Associate Professor, School of Social Sciences, Southern Cross University, Lismore, Australia (aellis@scu.edu.au)

Keywords

Music production, Music education, Communities of practice, Web-based forums

Abstract

Recent advances in desktop computers, digital audio technology and the World Wide Web have provided the contemporary musician with unprecedented power to take control of the production and distribution of their music. The degree of empowerment, however, will depend on the individual's know-how and ability to exploit these technologies.

Music technology courses can help to get students underway in developing practical, theoretical and creative skills in this new era. In the context of university-based music technology courses and informed by analysis of student feedback, Web-based forums and discussions with music staff it is recommend that: students be taught sophisticated Web search skills, the procedures and protocols for participating in Web-based forums, the skills to evaluate the quality of Web-based resources and how to index and archive electronic resources. Collectively these skills will ensure the growth of a strong and diverse community of practice in the field of Music Production on the World Wide Web.