Soundwave Scholars: Chloe Fridman

“Soundwave Scholars” is a series in which we highlight original music created by Electronic Music Production students.

This month’s selected artist is Chloe Fridman, a multi-instrumentalist who first discovered electronic music in summer camp, and also studies voice at Stages. Chloe is a regular feature in our recitals, band program and more. She’s the perfect example of a well-rounded student taking advantage of all that Stages has to offer. 

Read on to learn more about Chloe’s goals, inspirations, and experience with the EMP program here at Stages and listen to her original track ClassiQLO

How did you get started with Electronic Music Production?

I first started electronic music production through summer camp with Jason, with the hopes of learning how to improve music that I was already writing and recording that music into Ableton. I have attended many of these camps here at Stages and taken a few classes as well.

What aspects of EMP do you find to be the most challenging or rewarding?

In my opinion, the most challenging aspect of electronic music production is remembering all the shortcuts to get around Ableton and finding an inspiration for the music I write.

Are there specific artists or producers who have had a significant impact on your work?

Many classical music artists like Debussy, Mozart, and Beethoven have had a large impact on my music but I also like to incorporate pop music into my tracks . I listen to different pop artists like Lady Gaga.I also like to create my own styles of music when writing and add my own spin to different genres of music.

What advice or lessons from your teacher have stuck with you the most?

When I start a new track or listen to an old track for the last time I always listen for places to add a pause or to add a build up to a different part of the song.

What are your long-term goals as a producer?

In the long run I hope to take many more classes for electronic music and learn how to mix my songs better and be a better musician overall. Also, I want to learn more ways to write music and publish it.

Do you have a specific direction or genre you aim to explore more deeply?

I plan to explore more into singer-songwriter and electronic styles.

Are there any dream collaborations or projects you aspire to work on in the future?

In the near future I hope to publish an album with other pieces that I have written not only electronically but on the instruments that I play.

What are some key technical or creative skills you’ve gained through your lessons?

Some key technical skills I have gained are learning the many keyboard shortcuts and different ways of creating music electronically.

Can you share a specific project where you applied something you learned in your lessons?

A project that I worked on during a summer camp this year was called Classiqlo. I applied my knowledge of different genres , knowing my way around Ableton, and adding hooks to my track in order to create it.

How has your understanding of Electronic Music Production evolved since you started?

I went into this not even knowing how to operate an Apple mouse. It looked the same both ways and I was very confused. Up to where I’ve learned risers, how to operate Ableton and how to use so many different things, even the Apple mouse!

What inspires your creative process when working on a new track?

Usually when I am working on a new track or song I find inspiration in my emotions and my life experiences.

Are there non-musical influences that find their way into your music?

Yes. Some non-musical influences I have are my family, friends, experiences, and things that I have seen and/or places I have been.

How do you overcome creative blocks or challenges in your production?

When I have a creative block I try to refocus myself and either start a new track because nothing comes to my mind or work on a different part of my track.