My name is Jie Liu and I am currently studying Digital Media. I am interested in sound design, music, and how audio can influence storytelling and emotional experience in media. Through my studies, I enjoy exploring how sound can shape atmosphere and add meaning to visual content.
I chose the Audiovision studio because I am particularly interested in the relationship between sound and image. I would like to develop my understanding of how audio and visuals work together to create narrative, emotion, and immersion for the audience.
I have limited experience in sound design, but I am able to experiment with GarageBand to create simple background music and basic soundtracks. However, I consider narrative thinking to be one of my strengths, and I am particularly interested in using sound and visuals together to support storytelling and emotional expression.
During this semester, I hope to learn how to use a range of sound design software and develop a better understanding of the technical processes involved in audio production. I am particularly interested in exploring how different tools can be used to create sound effects, build soundscapes and support audiovisual synchronisation.
Week 2 – sound practice
Week 3 – sound practice
In this week’s exercise, I experimented with triadic interchange to create a short musical piece. By repeatedly copying chords and adjusting one note by a semitone or whole tone, I gradually developed a chord progression with relatively smooth voice leading. Through this process, I found that this method offers both flexibility and limitations. On one hand, it allows exploration of new harmonic relationships without relying on traditional tonal systems. On the other hand, because the smooth connection between voices needs to be maintained, some transitions can sound abrupt and require multiple adjustments to achieve a more natural flow.
In terms of instrumentation and melody, I experimented with both piano and flute sounds, and also combined the two. For the melody, I explored two different approaches: one that is simple and calm, and another that is faster and more energetic. However, I found it challenging to integrate the melody and chords naturally. At times, I felt unsure about how to balance them, so I had to try multiple combinations. After several attempts, I decided to use a simpler and more stable melodic structure.
After comple, I show it for my roommate. She pointed out that one of the chord transitions sounded slightly abrupt and suggested keeping more common tones between chords to improve the smoothness. Based on her feedback, I adjusted some of the chords, which helped create a more natural transition overall.
Week 4 – Sound
This classroom exercise started from a simple melody. I first created a basic melodic line, and then used the software to adjust it so that it gradually felt more rhythmic and layered. After that, I used a similar process to match it with a suitable beat, so the overall piece would sound more balanced. Finally, I added and tested different instruments, listening back and adjusting them to find the sounds that worked best with the melody and rhythm, so the music could feel more complete.
Week 5 – Sound
This piece is inspired by the dark, suspenseful atmosphere of Stranger Things. I used electronic beats, driving drums, two contrasting bass layers, and three different effect instruments to build tension and mystery. The sound aims to create a retro, cinematic mood while giving the track energy, depth, and a sense of unease.
Site Title 