Music production can be a lot of fun, but learning the ropes is also fairly complicated. Even if you just want to set up a small music studio in your own home, it might be a good idea to take a couple of classes. Consider enrolling in one or more of the following courses.
One easy way to go is to consider enrolling in a music program at a local community college. Not only can this be cost effective, you can interact with other students interested in production, and with a community college, you often receive better individualized instruction than at a four-year university. Some community colleges, even offer short, online classes that will at least give you a basic understanding of music production.
One example of a great community college program is at Cedar Valley College. Located in Lancaster, Texas, this community college offers two-year associates degrees in recording technology, as well as a shorter one-year certificate program. With either option, not only will you be prepared to produce your own music, but you also will be trained if you would like a career in recording or prefer to transfer to a university for a bachelor’s degree.
For those who would like to earn a bachelor’s degree, there are plenty of schools out there with great music production degree opportunities. The Mediatech Recording Institute, for instance, has a comprehensive program that includes a wide variety of classes. You will learn about audio engineering for film, video, radio, television and music production, as well as for live performances and field recording.
These days you don’t have to opt for the traditional approach to college, you can head online and earn a certificate or degree. At the Online Audio School, there are quick, 8-week classes in music production, with course titles such as ProTools 101 and ProTools 102. You will still be able to interact with an instructor, and the course includes plenty of lab work and tutorials. Another option for those who are hoping to earn a degree is to check out Full Sail University, which offers a bachelor’s degree in music production, and you can learn it all online.
A good first step before enrolling in any classes is to head down to your professional audio equipment dealer and ask for a consult. You can spend some time talking about classes and training, as well as learning about the equipment you will need to start your own home studio. A good salesperson, such as those at AudioDawg.com, can be a huge asset, helping you stay on budget, as well as ensuring that you have everything you need to get started recording.
Lance Bratten loves writing and talking about audio issues. For more information about Avid Pro Tools HD or to discover a Pro Tools HD Native supplier, please check out the AudioDAWg website today.