Advanced Web Dev, Progress Report - Benjamin Greenfield

Benjamin Greenfield

EarSketch Progress Report

Overview

Going into EarSketch I had a basic knowledge of basic web development and years of classical music training. My experience with web had been working with HTML and CSS designing basic webpages. Going into advanced web development I chose to explore learning JavaScript through EarSketch because of its use of sound design as a way to teach JavaScript.

First Thoughts

At first glance I found the interface for Earsketch intimidating, however upon starting the tutorial, it briefly and effectively walked me through the program. At this point I was comfortable with proceeding, as Earsketch made it clear it will walk you through what you need to know to get the maximum benefit from it.

What I’ve Learned (so far)

Earsketches learning system is very similar to a standard school textbook. As it explains a concept, teaches you how to execute the work, then gives you assignments to carry out what you have learned. Below I will outline what I have learned about Java Script through EarSketches integration to learning to make music

The Basics

JavaScript is one of many Programming Languages. Earsketch is a Scripting Language where you can input code to write music, this is called a Script. The EarSketch script consists of 3 Sections, Comments, Setup, Music and Finish Sections.

Sections

Comments Section allows you to add text that doesn’t have any effect other than act as personal notes within a script. Moreover any text that is preceded by // and succeeded by // is a comment.

Setup Section prepares the workspace to make music. The two essential codes required to be present are init() and setTempo(insert desired tempo).

Music Section this is where the meat and potatoes of the code goes to creating a music composition. By using the code fitMedia() we can insert any sound clip we want into the composition. Furthermore, within the fitMedia() code you can designate the track number, start measure and end measure. You can continue to add as many tracks and sound clips as you want until your composition is finished. In that case you add the code finish() to indicate your code is complete.

Final Thoughts

As I continue to work through Earsketch I expect to further learn the inner workings of JavaScript and by the end of the semester plan to present to the class music I have made in the process.