Electronic Music Production Specialization Course Syllabus

Overview: This specialization provides a comprehensive journey through the core aspects of electronic music production, blending technical skills with creative application. Spanning approximately 19 weeks with flexible pacing, learners engage in hands-on projects across sound design, DAW proficiency, vocal production, and live performance. Each module builds toward a final project that synthesizes all acquired skills, ideal for aspiring producers and performers.

Module 1: The Technology of Music Production

Estimated time: 18 hours

• Understanding sound fundamentals and signal flow
• Recording audio into a computer
• Organizing sound along a timeline
• Mixing techniques: compression, equalization, and delay

Module 2: Introduction to Ableton Live

Estimated time: 9 hours

• MIDI programming in Ableton Live
• Audio recording and warping
• Looping, editing, and processing
• Performing and troubleshooting in Live

Module 3: Creating Sounds for Electronic Music

Estimated time: 12 hours

• Introduction to music synthesis
• Designing custom synthesizer patches
• Using FXpansion Strobe 2 for sound creation
• Integrating synthesized sounds into compositions

Module 4: Vocal Production

Estimated time: 10 hours

• Recording vocal tracks professionally
• Editing and tuning vocals
• Mixing vocals in electronic music
• Guidance from Grammy-winning producer Prince Charles Alexander

Module 5: Electronic Music Performance Techniques

Estimated time: 12 hours

• Performing live with Electronic Digital Instruments (EDIs)
• History and evolution of electronic music performance
• Live setup and workflow optimization
• Integrating technology into dynamic performances

Module 6: Final Project

Estimated time: 20 hours

• Produce an original electronic music track
• Include custom synthesized sounds and vocal production
• Prepare and perform a live set using Ableton Live and EDIs

Prerequisites

• Basic familiarity with music production concepts
• Access to a computer and digital audio workstation (Ableton Live recommended)
• Some prior experience with music software is beneficial

What You'll Be Able to Do After

• Record, edit, and mix professional-quality audio
• Use Ableton Live fluently for production and performance
• Create custom sounds using software synthesizers
• Produce and process vocal tracks for electronic music
• Perform electronic music live using EDIs and DAWs