Music production is a powerful and rewarding skill, one that allows you to transform creative ideas into polished, professional tracks. With the rise of digital technology and online learning platforms, you no longer need to attend expensive in-person classes to master the art of music production. Instead, there are numerous high-quality online courses available that cater to various levels, from beginners to advanced producers.
Whether you’re an aspiring beat maker, a musician wanting to record your own music, or someone looking to enter the professional music industry, there’s an online music production course suited to your needs. In this article, we’ll explore the best online music production courses and provide insight into what to look for when choosing the right course for you.
Why Choose an Online Music Production Course?
Online courses offer several advantages that make them appealing for aspiring music producers:
Flexibility: With an online course, you can learn at your own pace. This is especially beneficial for those balancing other commitments like work or school. You can revisit lessons as needed and fit your learning around your schedule.
Accessibility: Online music production courses provide access to a wealth of information from expert instructors, sometimes industry veterans, that you might not find in local institutions. You can learn from anywhere in the world, as long as you have an internet connection.
Affordability: Compared to attending traditional music schools, online courses tend to be much more affordable. Many platforms offer competitive pricing, subscription models, or even free introductory lessons.
Networking Opportunities: Many online platforms offer community forums or live sessions where students can connect with peers and instructors. This network can lead to collaborations and valuable feedback, enriching your learning experience.
What to Look for in a Music Production Course
Choosing the right course depends on several factors, such as your skill level, preferred software, and goals. Here are some key elements to consider when selecting an online music production course:
Instructor Credentials: Look for courses taught by experienced professionals with a proven track record in the music industry. An instructor who has produced for notable artists or has extensive experience using the software can provide invaluable insights.
Comprehensive Curriculum: A good course should cover a wide range of topics, including digital audio workstations (DAWs), sound design, music theory, mixing, mastering, and more. If the course is specialized (e.g., electronic music production), make sure it covers the necessary tools and techniques for that genre.
Software-Specific Training: Different courses focus on different DAWs like Ableton Live, Logic Pro X, FL Studio, and Pro Tools. Choose a course that offers instruction in the DAW you intend to use.
Hands-On Projects: Learning by doing is crucial in music production. Look for courses that offer assignments, exercises, and real-world projects to help you apply what you’ve learned.
Certification: Some courses offer certificates upon completion, which can be a nice addition to your resume or portfolio if you’re looking to enter the professional music industry.
The Best Online Music Production Courses
Here’s a breakdown of some of the top online music production courses available today, suitable for different skill levels and preferences:
1. Masterclass: Deadmau5 Teaches Electronic Music Production
Masterclass is known for offering courses from top-tier professionals across various fields, and their course with Deadmau5 is no exception. If you’re into electronic music, this course is a must. Deadmau5 (Joel Zimmerman), a Grammy-nominated producer, offers students an inside look at his creative process.
Course Content: This course covers foundational music production techniques with a focus on electronic music, including sound design, mixing, and mastering. Deadmau5 also shares his approach to building a career in the music industry and performing live.
Duration: 23 lessons, about 6 hours of content.
Skill Level: Intermediate.
Platform: Masterclass.
Certification: No formal certification, but knowledge from a world-class producer.
Why It’s Great: Deadmau5’s course provides a rare opportunity to learn from a leading electronic music producer. It’s an excellent resource for those who want to focus on electronic and dance music production.
2. Berklee College of Music – Music Production Specialization on Coursera
Berklee College of Music is a prestigious institution in the music world, and their Music Production Specialization on Coursera brings their expertise to the online space. This program is perfect for those looking to build a strong foundation in music production.
Course Content: The course covers a wide range of topics, from the technology behind music production to advanced production techniques. You’ll learn about music theory, recording, mixing, mastering, and music business strategies.
Duration: 4 months, assuming 5-6 hours per week.
Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate.
Platform: Coursera.
Certification: Yes, upon completion.
Why It’s Great: The Berklee Music Production Specialization offers a comprehensive and academic approach to music production, making it an excellent choice for beginners and those looking to understand the technical side of music creation.
3. Point Blank Music School – Music Production Master Diploma
Point Blank Music School is a well-known institution for music production education, and their Music Production Master Diploma is one of the most in-depth online programs available. This course is designed for those who want to build a professional career in the industry.
- Course Content: This diploma program covers everything from music theory, sound design, mixing, mastering, and music business, to working with various DAWs like Ableton Live, Logic Pro X, and Pro Tools. You’ll also get exposure to real-world scenarios through project-based learning.
- Duration: 64 weeks (part-time).
- Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced.
- Platform: Point Blank Music School.
- Certification: Yes, Music Production Diploma.
Why It’s Great: This program is highly comprehensive and industry-recognized. With direct feedback from professionals and the opportunity to work on real projects, it is a great fit for aspiring producers who are serious about pursuing a career in music production.
4. Udemy: Music Production in Logic Pro X – The Complete Course
For those on a budget, Udemy offers excellent options, including Music Production in Logic Pro X by Tomas George. This course is perfect for beginners and intermediate users who want to get up to speed with Logic Pro X, one of the most popular DAWs in the industry.
- Course Content: This course covers all the essentials of music production in Logic Pro X, including MIDI composition, arrangement, mixing, and mastering. It also includes practical assignments to help you apply what you’ve learned.
- Duration: 36 hours of video content.
- Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate.
- Platform: Udemy.
- Certification: Yes, Udemy Certificate of Completion.
Why It’s Great: Udemy’s Logic Pro X course is an affordable and detailed introduction to music production. Frequent discounts make this course accessible to almost anyone, and it provides a solid foundation for aspiring producers.
5. Noiselab: Learn Ableton Live
Noiselab is a platform specifically tailored to teaching Ableton Live, one of the most widely used DAWs in electronic music production. If you’re looking to master Ableton, Noiselab’s extensive catalog of lessons and tutorials is the perfect resource.
- Course Content: The course covers everything from basic DAW operation to advanced production techniques like sound design and live performance setups.
- Duration: Self-paced.
- Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate.
- Platform: Noiselab.
- Certification: Yes, upon completion.
Why It’s Great: Noiselab is specifically designed for Ableton users, making it a valuable resource for electronic music producers and anyone who wants to master this versatile DAW.
Conclusion
The world of online music production courses is vast, with offerings ranging from beginner-friendly introductions to in-depth, career-focused programs. Depending on your goals, budget, and preferred DAW, you can choose a course that best suits your needs.
For those looking for inspiration from an industry leader, Deadmau5’s Masterclass is a fantastic option. If you prefer a more academic, structured program, Berklee’s Music Production Specialization or Point Blank’s Master Diploma will provide comprehensive learning. On a budget? Udemy’s Logic Pro X course offers excellent value for beginners. Finally, if you’re an Ableton enthusiast, Noiselab is the platform to check out.
Whichever course you choose, online learning offers the flexibility and access needed to start producing your own music and potentially building a rewarding career in the music industry.
