FAQ: Electronic Music Production

What Is Electronic Music?

Electronic music is a broad category of music that uses electronic instruments, computers, or other music technology to produce sound. It encompasses a variety of styles, including hip-hop, drum and bass, techno, ambient, breakbeat, house, dubstep, EDM, and IDM. You can also find electronic music in video game soundtracks, film scores, commercials, and pop music.

I play traditional instruments, would this class still be relevant to me?

Totally! While many students enjoy creating electronic music, the skills and techniques taught in the class are valuable for any musician, even those with no interest in electronic genres. Even if you aren’t into electronic music, music production will teach you how to record your instrument, how to layer multiple parts to create rich, complex compositions, how to create professional demos for bands, how to program instruments and gain insight into various sounds & textures, gain a deeper understanding of arrangement, melodies, chord progressions, bass lines, embellishments and transitions and how to develop your tone and use audio effects to enhance your music. 

What are the topics covered?

Our program offers an in-depth exploration of various aspects of electronic music production, including digital audio workstation (DAW) software, idea creation, songwriting, sound design, arrangement, mixing, performance, musicianship, and music appreciation. You’ll engage in hands-on projects to create electronic music across different genres. By the end of the semester, you’ll present an original composition at our Listening Party, where you can share your work with friends and family.

Should I take group classes or private lessons?

Group Classes: Weekly sessions of 90 minutes each for 15 weeks are excellent for receiving feedback from peers, collaborating, being social and exploring a variety of musical genres. 

Private Lessons: Available in 30, 45, or 60-minute sessions. Hour-long lessons are recommended for optimal progress and private lessons are ideal for students with specific goals or visions. They provide personalized attention and flexibility to meet individual needs. While many adults enjoy group classes, some may find one-on-one lessons more effective. These lessons are also well-suited for students with behavior issues, learning disabilities, or those needing extra support.

Who are these classes suitable for?

These classes are designed for anyone interested in creating their own music and exploring how to use music technology to achieve that goal. Group classes are typically for students ages 12+, but exceptions can be made depending on experience and goals. Private lessons are available for all ages. 

Is prior experience required before enrolling in a class?

Prior experience is not required for private lessons or Level 1 EMP classes. All students are welcome, regardless of experience.

Which digital audio workstation (DAW) will be used?

Our electronic music production program teaches the platform Ableton Live. Get your 90-Day Free Trial Ableton Live here. Student discounts are available for 60% when you’re ready to purchase. Just provide the Stages Music Arts registration email and you’ll qualify for the discount. Click here for info.

How do I enroll?

Click here to enroll in Electronic Music Production Level 1 group classes.

For Levels 2-4 or private lessons, email us to discuss enrollment.

Do I need specific equipment to practice?

While having your own equipment can be advantageous, it’s not a requirement. Our classes are designed to accommodate a range of setups. We will guide you in using digital audio workstation software and assist you in getting started with the tools you already have. You can find all of our gear recommendations here. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to jason@stagesmusicart.com.

What instruments are most valuable to learn for an aspiring music producer?

Studying any instrument alongside Electronic Music will strengthen your musicianship, musical vocabulary and boost creativity. Drums and Piano are particularly valuable instruments to learn if you aspire to be a music producer.

Drums

• Learning drums will deepen your understanding of rhythm, which is essential for any instrument. It will also make you more adept at programming the complex nuances of drumming in your compositions.

Piano

• Learning piano provides a solid grasp of harmony, melody, and the entire frequency spectrum. This foundational knowledge can be easily applied to any other instrument you choose to use in your compositions.

Is there a showcase where students can present their work?

Yes, there is! The program culminates with a grand finale Listening Party in our stunning, acoustically superb Performance Hall. Students will have the opportunity to showcase their music and celebrate their achievements with friends and family.

I have more questions. Who do I contact?

You can email our Director of Electronic Music at Jason@Stagesmusicarts.com

If you are ready to enroll, contact our staff at info@stagesmusicarts.com or 443-353-5300