Sound design and music in the video game industry have far surpassed the sophistication and complexity of television and film scores, with new depths of creativity, innovation and a growing fan base in popular culture. Learn how to put your creative talents to use in this exciting and diverse world of technology, and with over 300 gaming companies in the greater Seattle area and growing, music and sound design is in demand. In our newly adapted virtual course, students will train live with established, working industry professionals to learn the various techniques employed in video game audio production. We'll cover an overview of how to compose and score music suitable for game integration, sound design for atmosphere, combat, user interface (UI) and visual effects of all kinds, field recording, editing techniques, best practices, and how to implement audio using middleware and game engines. Students will graduate with an interactive game demo reel, industry insights, and valuable, hands-on project experience to take any resume to the next level.
Audio Fundamentals, Reaper DAW, Music Composition and Scoring, Sound Design and Effects, Character Voiceovers and Dialogue, Creative Mixing, Layering and Editing, Foley and Field Recording, Middleware (Implementation Tools): Wwise and FMOD, Game Engines: Unity and Unreal, Business and Industry Skills and more.
Audio Fundamentals
Reaper DAW
Creative Mixing, Layering and Editing
Sound Design and FX Creation
Music Composition and Scoring
Field Recording and Foley
Game Engines: Unity & Unreal
Middleware: FMOD & Wwise
Industry Training
Sound Design for Video Games
Duration
Class Size
Apps Due
Classes Begin
Classes Format
Project Focus
Classes are held twice weekly, 3 hrs/ea (weekday evenings) in a live-virtual format. Our structure includes discussion, demonstration, in-class exercises and independent project work with personalized feedback. Students also receive a replay link for each class so they can revisit any material they find helpful to watch again.
SRA instructors are highly experienced game audio professionals who bring a wealth of knowledge and experience. As musicians, composers, sound designers and all around game audio experts, they bring a unique perspective on techniques and the industry like only the insiders can.
By electing to keep our class sizes small (maximum 12 students) we naturally have the time and availability for Q&A and mentorship throughout every class. Students will have their work evaluated throughout the course with special segments for intensive project reviews and guidance.
SRA accepts applications on a “rolling” or first come basis, so early submissions are encouraged. The process entails an application form, a written essay, references, a recent transcript and a couple elective components such as letters of recommendation and work samples if available. The final step is an informal interview. A $75 processing fee will be due at the time of submission and all applicants will be notified in writing within 30 days if they have been accepted.
Students who’d like to begin sound design training will need to already have experience with playing music as a prerequisite, and preferably some training in or understanding of basic music theory. We also require a passion for creativity, a sincere desire to be of service in this industry, being a team player, responsibility, dedication, a great attitude and a readiness for success. Students need to be at least 18 years of age and a high school graduate (or GED) to attend our programs.