Transformative Technological Advancements Enhance Music Education Institute
UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music Embraces Technology for Hybrid Learning and Performance
The UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music has made significant strides in adapting to the challenges posed by the pandemic, with a focus on facilitating hybrid classes and remote performances. In an unprecedented move, the school conducted a full school year of remote learning, transforming its teaching and learning methods to accommodate online modes [1][3][4].
One of the key aspects of this transformation was the engagement in remote collaborations. These digital interactions proved to be fruitful learning experiences, enabling ensemble practice, lessons, and performances to continue despite physical distancing measures [3][4]. Even events like the Chamber Music Intensive, which had to be suspended during the height of pandemic restrictions, resumed once restrictions eased, underscoring the importance of technology in maintaining educational activities [1].
To achieve low latency audio and live performance streaming, the school's technology team decided to use SonoBus and Jamulus software. The big challenge was to find technology that would allow musicians to play together in real time with minimal lag. The solution came in the form of Audio over Ethernet technology, which enables real-time audio connection using the correct hardware and software through the Ethernet [2].
As a result of these investments, the technology team's leader, Henao, was invited to serve on UCLA's campus committee for providing a consistent level of AV technology to all classrooms campuswide.
In addition to these improvements, new digital signage will be installed in five locations throughout the School of Music, displaying messages about facilities, student services, campus announcements, upcoming events, and public announcements. A new screen in the Evelyn & Mo Ostin Music Center Music Café will feature upcoming events and public announcements, while a kiosk in the lobby of Schoenberg Hall will show event promotions [5].
To ensure that everyone in the school community could make the most of these new technologies, the school launched virtual tech workshops on topics related to digital audio workstations, recording, telematic performance, and more. Customized one-on-one training sessions were offered for students and faculty to address their specific needs. As a result, students are now equipped with lasting benefits and skills in music and audio technology, as they are expected to continue working in this way post-pandemic [6].
Over 200 people attended the training boot camps, taught by experts and members of the Graduate Council. Six pairs of rooms were set up in the spring of 2020 for lessons and collaborations, and all classrooms at the School of Music will now be able to livestream for hybrid classes in the fall [7].
As the school moves towards re-opening, upgrades to classrooms and facilities will be key for safe and effective music performance. The Jazz Combos ensemble rehearsal was used as an example of how Audio over Ethernet works, with Arturo O'Farrill and students connecting from their respective studios or classrooms [8].
The UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music's commitment to producing 21st-century leading-edge work is evident in its innovative technology solutions and upgrades, which have enabled it to continue its mission of music education and performance during the pandemic.
The UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music continues to expand its reach beyond traditional classroom settings, integrating technology into their hybrid learning and performance model to accommodate modern lifestyle demands. In this tech-enabled educational environment, students and faculty engage in digital collaborations, develop new skills in music and audio technology, and attend virtual workshops for self-improvement and self-development. Additionally, the school showcases upcoming events and important announcements using digital signage, providing an entertainment platform alongside its primary mission of education and performance in music.
