If you have a question about the use of music technology in education, e-mail it to us, and we will try to answer it for you in this forum. The questions need to be general enough in nature that others will also benefit from reading about it. Specific individual software or hardware problems should be directed to the customer service departments of the product's manufacturer.
Q. How do I write a successful grant to acquire computers and other equipment?
A. Writing a grant is a complex process. There are many things to consider before you submit one. Before even attempting to write an application, you should work out these issues listed below, and prepare some documentation that you can refer to when an opportunity becomes available.
Once you have this basic information assembled, you can then begin to look at individual grant opportunities. Remember that no matter how great your need, or how well written your proposal may be, if the purpose and scope of the grant funding you are seeking doesn't match what you are asking for, you won't receive funding from that source. If the criteria for the grant and your proposal do match up in objectives, make sure that you follow the application directions precisely and completely. If they want only four pages of description, give them four not fourteen. If the application must be a certain font size and spacing, don't deviate from what they ask for. And make sure that you provide answers and any necessary documentation for all of the questions asked. Usually there is a lot of competition for grant funding, and for your proposal to be seriously considered you must present everything according to their guidelines. Good luck!
Q. How do I choose keyboards for my lab?
A. There are a number of important factors to consider prior to deciding which keyboard to order.
What kinds of instruction will take place in the lab? If the purpose is training on keyboard skills only, a weighted keyboard with a full set of keys and only a few sounds is going to be more useful than a synthesizer keyboard. If the purpose is training in electronic music, with emphasis on the use of sequencing or notation software, then a General MIDI capable synthesizer is probably a better choice. If both types of instruction are going to take place, consider buying the weighted keyboards as controllers, and adding sound modules activated through MIDI to provide a variety of sounds.
Whatever keyboard you choose, make sure that it is MIDI capable. It is also highly recommended that you purchase the same equipment for each work station, as it is very difficult to teach in a lab where different students have different types of equipment. If you are purchasing synthesizers, make sure that they support General MIDI and have at least 32 voices polyphonic. (64 voice capability is preferable)
What kind of customer service and support does the manufacturer provide? Will the keyboard be available for purchase later, or will it be discontinued? Will the company assist you in setting up the lab? What does the product warranty include? Is repair service easily available in your area?
Of course pricing is always a factor. But most likely you will be using whatever you buy for many years, and if it possible to get more features for slightly more money, go that route. You will be amazed at what your students are capable of doing, within just a few months!
Plan to have a repair budget for your lab. This would include repairs after the warranty expires, and the replacement of headphones, cords, and other small items that wear out or become damaged.
Q. How do I choose software for use in my classroom or office?
A. The first consideration is the purpose for buying and using the software. The four main categories of music software are sequencing, notation, training (drill and practice), and sound editing/design. In each category you can find software that is high end or low end, expensive or inexpensive. You should try to analyze your current and future needs to determine how much capability the software should have. Even if you are a beginner at using technology, remember that you will eventually learn how to operate even the most complex looking software with some practice and experience, so don't skimp on features if you think that you will need them. Another consideration is what kind of support that is available for the product you are considering.
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