How to make Electronic music in 5 steps
We keep receiving requests for advice on how to start make Electronic music – this is a short video which breaks down the steps to get you up and running and making music in to 5 easy steps.
Number 1. – Get some Software
Sequencers, Digitial Audio Workstations, Music Editing Software – call them what you will, this is the tool you need to get creative and arrange your masterpieces. Software you can use, such as Ableton, Cubase, Reason, FL Studio, Logic and Sonar.
Most of the common D.A.W. software has entry level versions that are :-
a. Inexpensive
b. Have most of the features you’ll need and
c. Will also offer you an upgrade route to more feature rich versions in the future.
Number 2. Get a Virtual Instrument
Synthesizers, drum machines, Romplers, Samplers – you need to get yourself a good sound source.
If you’re just getting started, a Rompler could be the way to go – plenty of useable, out- the-box sounds and presets.
If you want to get into making your own sounds then you can look to get a programmable synthesizer such as Native Instrument’s Massive or Lennar Digital’s Sylenth 1.
Also you really need to think about the type of music you want to make as this will help you decide on what Virtual Instrument you should get.
Virtual Instruments range from free, through inexpensive and expensive, right up to very expensive Orchestral sampling. Whatever your budget is, there’s an Instrument out there for you, which will help you make electronic music !
Number 3. Get some Content
To get you started creating tracks quickly, be sure to pick up some sample packs. This will help you achieve the sound you’re after.
Having trouble writing Breakbeats ? Simple – grab a breakbeat sample pack.
After particular drum sounds back can’t afford a Roland TR 909 ? Grab a sample pack.
It’s a cheap, effective and quick way to get your tracks sounding how you want.
Number 4. Get a Controller
You don’t need a controller to start make Electronic music but it really helps !
from USB portable keyboards to drum pads to Performance Controllers, there’s a huge array of choice out there to suit both budget and feature requirements
Number 5. Get creative!
You’re good to go – the secret here is to write, write some more and keep writing.
Keep at it. Don’t give up. Listen closely to the music you aspire to make.
Save out your work onto a portable device and listen to it on the go !
On the bus, train or plane – wherever – it helps. Play your music to friends and family.
Keep going, the more you write – the better you’ll get – and you will pick up more and more techniques as you go.
Additionally there’s an abundance of music tutorial sites out there that offer
– helpful advice,
– insightful overviews
– technique tutorials
Finally you can connect with the outside world
– Join a forum
– engage with like minded individuals
– and grab a soundcloud page – showcase your talents.
There’s a world of helpful people out there who will offer you feedback and advice.
Most of all, enjoy it – remember – music is its own reward
