Digitization in music production
Music has always made use of technology
The use of technology in music production is nothing new. Electronic music and technology are mutually dependent. Auto-Tune plugins and synthesizers are no longer foreign concepts. It's undeniable that music has always relied on technological developments, especially when it comes to the transmission, processing, or amplification of effects, sound, and tone. Technological change can be understood as an irreversible result of innovative developments that affect almost all areas of our lives. Especially in light of online streaming and the recently necessitated, flexible event concepts, the influence of digitalization on the art and music industries is undeniable. In addition to virtual exhibition openings and art and culture hackathons, live streams of music concerts and online sampling challenges have been launched. These events all pursue the same goal: to bring together culture enthusiasts, musicians, and artists, and to promote access to art and foster exchange. But what about production?
Restrictive contracts are a thing of the past; today, everything resides in the cloud.
Music releases have now shifted almost exclusively to the internet. "Freedom must be boundless above the clouds." (Mey, 1974) Is that really true? Gramophones, record players, tape machines, and various other recording media have been replaced over the course of history by increasingly modern playback devices and media, until they were finally made obsolete because, to put it bluntly, music now simply hangs around in the cloud or on the platforms of various music streaming services. This opens up new, cost-effective, and above all, uncomplicated possibilities. Labels and distributors are no longer essential, and everyone can participate. But is that good or bad? On the one hand, access and distribution can be increased; on the other hand, everything has become more ephemeral and, from a financial perspective, sometimes less lucrative. Physical media and tangible works are losing their presence. Global networking diminishes their perceived value through the sheer volume of releases. At the same time, digitization promotes reach and sustainability by saving time, printing, and production costs. However, this also means that productions remain on the radar for a comparatively shorter time, are less tangible, and are more easily replaced. It therefore seems to be a double-edged sword. The comeback of vinyl records, which is bringing the record industry out of its slumber, clearly demonstrates that in the current age we are caught between technological developments and a romantic return to analog.
The Paradox of Low Fidelity (Lo-Fi) Nostalgia
Musical styles evolve over time and context, forms become established, and subgenres emerge. Everything is constantly changing; everything is deconstructed and reassembled. Styles are now merging, nothing can be clearly assigned to a single genre, and boundaries are blurring. In this context, Lo-Fi music seems to be increasingly popular. Lo-Fi refers to minimalist, electronically produced instrumental music between 60 and 90 bpm in a retro style with numerous subcategories. Similar to lounge or chillout music, this style is frequently used in learning and working environments, for relaxation, or as background music. In contrast to overly elaborate, high-end, glossy productions, everything is deliberately kept minimalist to focus the listener's attention away from the music and onto the task at hand. The paradox is that while the productions are digitally created and processed, they aim to sound analog. These music productions reflect the ambivalence between analog recordings and digital minimalism. The high frequencies are processed, the quality artificially reduced to achieve a subtle vintage sound aesthetic. Using filters and various plugins, digital crackling or hissing sounds are generated to imitate a retro vinyl record sound. The amazing thing is, it works and it's booming!
Relaxing Music at Work
Whether in the car on the way to work, in the elevator, or in the office – we seem to be surrounded by music around the clock. Relaxing music is becoming increasingly popular; unobtrusive music can reduce stress and boost productivity and motivation in the workplace. As easy listening music, lo-fi music is particularly well-suited to positively influence creativity and concentration in the work environment.
Sound Production at St. Pölten University of Applied Sciences
St. Pölten University of Applied Sciences offers numerous and diverse degree programs, fostering the creativity of its students. Within the Media Technology and Audio Design programs, students can practice music theory and production, media music production technologies, and sound design in the university's audio labs. The Audio Design master's program, in particular, focuses on speech, vocal, and instrumental recording, as well as mixing and mastering, in these labs. The campus also features an equipment rental service for speakers, microphones, and other technical devices, and operates its own campus and city radio station.
