Audacity Exercises

Using the two provided MP3 tracks (linked below) or 2 tracks of your choice with similarly distinct content*, create a unique two minute composition that is significantly different from either of the source files. You are free to experiment, but your project should include the techniques listed below, at minimum. Bring your .aup files to class next week (put them on lab share) so that we can look at them together.

Before you start, review the four rules for keeping your Audacity Project happy

1. If you import an audio file with the "Read uncompressed file directly from the original (faster)" option checked in Import / Export Preferences (and note this is the Audacity default setting), never move, rename or delete that file, unless you first copy it into the Audacity project.
2. Never move, delete or rename any of the files or folders inside the _data folder,
3. Never rename the .aup file or the _data folder.
   If you want to rename your project (for example, to save a snapshot at a particular point), use the File > Save Project As... command. Always keep the .aup file and the _data folder together in the same directory (folder).
4. Always keep the .aup file and the _data folder together in the same directory (folder).

Assignment Instructions

1. Download Audacity 1.3 Series (Beta)
2. Download these audio tracks, or select two others of your choice*:
   Mozart: Sonata for Piano Four-Hands
   Natural History Podcast: A Life With Loons
   (click the arrow on the right side of the QuickTime interface, choose "save as source")
3. Open both Mp3 files in a single audacity project
   (open one file, then use file -> import audio to bring the second one into the same project, or open them separately, and use copy/paste to put both tracks in one project)
4. Explore the navigation interface: zoom, fit selection in window, fit project in window, play back menu, etc
5. Explore the drop down menu to the left of the track area. Use it to rename your tracks, try splitting stereo to mono, etc
6. Use the envelope tool to create a gradual crossfade between the two tracks
7. Using Effect->Change Speed or Change Tempo, slow down or speed up parts of your composition
8. Using copy & paste, create a repetitive rhythm in part of your composition
9. Explore other options on Effect menu and apply a few to your composition.
10. Export your final composition to Mp3 and post in on your blog. Make a link from your assignment post to this page.
11. Bring your .aup file to class on Monday
12. Use the resources below if you need extra help

The Audacity Floss Manual has basic instructions that can help you get started. There is a lot more information on the Audacity development site.

If you're using a Mac and can't export to Mp3, download and install this library. More info here.

*If you choose to select your own tracks they should be two very different tracks- i.e. talk show & pop song, opera & field recording.