One Year Intensive Program - Introduction to Film Sound (SAKF9)

Course description

FAMU International’s Film Sound program seeks to develop students' creative, technical, and conceptual skills in the craft of cinematic sound. The main goal is to deliver a well-rounded education in sound recording, editing, design, and mixing so that students can create great sonic experiences that enhance and heighten visual narratives. Working in small group guided workshops, real-world projects, and group assignments, students will acquire the skills to work with location sound, dialogue, Foley, and multichannel soundscapes, utilising industry-standard equipment and software. The focus is on comprehending the narrative, affective, and aesthetic possibilities of sound based on critical readings of sound theory, history, and the history of film language. The course aims

to promote individual expression, experimentation, and the cultivation of an individual sonic voice. By the end of the program, each student will have a professional-level portfolio that showcases their artistic and technical growth, preparing them to pursue graduate studies or a career in the professional world of postproduction, sound design, and sound mixing. The objective of the program is to create versatile, creatively confident sound artists ready to contribute to storytelling in films.

Learning outcomes

FAMU International graduates of the Introduction to Film Sound of One Year Intensive Program gain a deep understanding of the technical and creative sides of film sound and filmmaking. hese graduates understand the connection between sound and image and are able to use sound to manipulate mood, rhythm, and narrative impact. They've also studied theory and history, allowing them to create sound with an artistic as well as cultural nuance. In collaborative projects, they've also discovered how to collaborate with creative groups and contribute constructively to audiovisual storytelling. Each graduate leaves the program with a professional portfolio demonstrating their creativity, imagination, and technical acumen. Whether they go on to pursue advanced academic degrees or enter junior positions in sound production, post-production, or media arts, they know they are ready for their next step in filmmaking. FAMU International's legacy of cinematic achievement puts each graduate in the world network of emerging film professionals.

Candidate's prerequisites

While applying for the Introduction to Film Sound course at FAMU International, Prague prospective candidates need to fill out an application form, present a current CV, and submit transcripts of education. Along with that, an artistic sample is required, such as an original short sound composition, soundtrack analysis for a film, or sound design work demonstrating interest and creativity in sound or audiovisual media. Additionally, the applicant has to submit a statement of intent, explaining their interest in sound design, what they aim to accomplish throughout the program and how they would use their sound competence in the future. While prior experience in sound production is greatly encouraged, it is not mandatory to participate in. The competence to demonstrate an intermediate level of English must be expressed since the program takes place through teaching in English. Application is competitive, and it emphasises creative talent, technical competence, and eagerness to work in the field of film sound. A one-minute video self-portrait also needs to be submitted with the application, conveying the intent of the applicant's artwork as well as commitment to the program.

Conditions for completing the programme

The Introduction to Film Sound program does not have a traditional state final examination. Instead, students complete a whole set of assignments and projects that serve as both learning milestones and exam questions. The highlight is a professional-grade sound design for a short film, developed in collaboration with other students of various Czech and English programs. Separate exercises in location recording, multichannel construction of soundscape, sound editing and mixing are also evaluated. All the students also have an audio-visual portfolio of projects that are graded in terms of technical competence as well as creative approach. Theory is tested through written exercises, film analysis, and class discussion. Mastery of all the coursework culminates in the awarding of a certificate by FAMU International along with a transcript in accordance with the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS).