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The Art of Music Production

4.8

Based on 2,032 ratings

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Stephen Webber

Explore the art of record production and how to make recordings that other people will love listening to. This course will teach you how to make emotionally moving recordings on almost any recording equipment, including your phone or laptop. The emphasis is on mastering tangible artistic concepts; the gear you use is up to you. You will learn to develop the most important tool in the recording studio: your ears. You will learn to enhance every aspect of your own productions, both sonically and musically, by employing deeper listening skills.

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Explore the art of record production and how to make recordings that other people will love listening to. This course will teach you how to make emotionally moving recordings on almost any recording equipment, including your phone or laptop. The emphasis is on mastering tangible artistic concepts; the gear you use is up to you. You will learn to develop the most important tool in the recording studio: your ears. You will learn to enhance every aspect of your own productions, both sonically and musically, by employing deeper listening skills.

Assignments will include posting your own recordings for peer review, and reviewing your classmates’ work by employing specific tools and strategies. If you use a digital audio workstation to record and mix, that’s great, but as long as you can record into your computer and post an MP3, you can complete the assignments.

As you learn about the art of record production in this 4-week course, you will also learn about yourself and who you are as an artist and producer. It is not necessary that you read music or play an instrument to take this course.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Welcome to The Art of Music Production

Welcome to The Art of Music Production! Before you begin the course, we will cover all the details about the course and what you'll need to know to get the most out of your experience.

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Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Develops skills in identifying and addressing the sonic signature of a song

Teaches essential listening strategies for effective music production and artistic development

Provides a creative and comprehensive study of the art of music production, which is highly relevant to the music industry

Suitable for learners of varied experience levels, as it offers a combination of fundamental concepts and advanced techniques

Stephen Webber's expertise as a renowned producer enhances the course's credibility

The course's multi-modal format, including discussions, peer reviews, and hands-on assignments, enhances engagement and learning

The online platform is convenient and accessible for remote learning

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Reviews summary

Focus on the art of production

According to learners, this course provides a solid foundation (positive) in the artistic and emotional aspects (positive) of music production, rather than focusing solely on technical skills or specific software. Students appreciate the emphasis on ear training and critical listening (positive), which helps them understand the 'why' behind production choices. The course includes practical assignments (positive) that require applying concepts and engaging in a peer review process (neutral) to gain perspective. While the course description suggests minimal technical requirements, reviewers note that some basic familiarity with recording equipment and software (warning) is practically necessary to complete assignments. Technical concepts like EQ and compression are covered, but students say this is often at a high conceptual level (warning), making it less ideal for complete technical beginners (warning) seeking hands-on software tutorials.

Covers concepts over practical application.

"...felt it stayed a bit too high-level on technical aspects. Concepts like EQ and compression were introduced, but not enough practical 'how-to' for a beginner..."

"I think this course is best for people who want to improve their creative process... not necessarily learn specific software."

"It's not about *which* button to push..."

"Don't expect a full guide on using Ableton or Logic, that's not the point."

Provides perspective, but quality varies.

"Peer reviews were incredibly helpful, though sometimes feedback was vague."

"The peer review process, while time-consuming, provided invaluable perspective on my work."

"The peer review process frustrating. Some classmates didn't give constructive feedback."

"Peer review quality varied greatly - some were very detailed and helpful, others were minimal."

Helps develop critical listening skills.

"This course truly changed how I listen to music..."

"Fantastic course! It really trains your ears to listen critically."

"The focus on ear training and artistic vision is gold."

Focuses on the creative and emotional aspects.

"This course truly changed how I listen to music. The focus on the artistic and emotional aspects of production rather than just technical gear was exactly what I needed."

"A solid foundation in the artistic side of music production. I appreciated the emphasis on intent and vision."

"Exactly what the title says - it's about the ART of music production. It's not a technical manual. It teaches you *how* to think like a producer..."

"It's refreshing to focus on the emotion and intention behind a production."

Requires basic recording setup/DAW knowledge.

"...it assumes you already have a basic understanding of recording equipment and software... Some technical guidance would have been useful."

"...If you're a complete technical beginner, you might struggle with assignments requiring recording and mixing."

"...if you don't have some basic recording setup and DAW knowledge, completing the assignments is difficult."

"Some technical basics are needed beforehand. Don't expect a full guide on using Ableton or Logic..."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in The Art of Music Production with these activities:

Start using the DAW of your choice

Show steps

Become familiar with the basic principles of a DAW (digital audio workstation), such as GarageBand, Logic Pro, or Ableton

Browse courses on Digital Audio Workstation

Show steps

Download and install a DAW
Complete the built-in tutorials
Search for beginner tutorials on YouTube, Udemy, or other online platforms

Read The Art of Production by Dave Pensado and Herb Trawick

Show steps

Extract knowledge from experts in the field of music production to better understand the methods behind successful productions

View The Pensado Papers: The Rise of Visionary... on Amazon

Show steps

Obtain a copy of the book
Set aside at least 30 minutes each day to read
Take notes and highlight key passages
Consider joining a book club or online discussion forum to engage with others

Record and mix a cover song

Show steps

Apply the principles of music production to create your rendition of an existing song

Show steps

Choose a song that inspires you
Record your own vocals and instruments, or use samples
Mix the different tracks together
Master the final mix

Five other activities

Expand to see all activities and additional details

Show all eight activities

Join a peer review group

Show steps

Share your work with others and receive constructive feedback

Show steps

Find a group of fellow musicians or producers
Set up a regular meeting schedule
Bring your work to each meeting for review

Attend a music production workshop

Show steps

Connect with audio professionals and learn from their experiences

Show steps

Research music production workshops in your area
Choose a workshop that aligns with your interests
Register for the workshop and attend

Complete mixing exercises

Show steps

Develop your mixing skills through repetitive exercises, using a library of sounds

Browse courses on Mixing

Show steps

Find a set of mixing exercises online or in textbooks
Set aside dedicated practice time each day
Listen carefully to the results of your mixes
Consider recording your mixes and sharing them with others for feedback

Produce an original song

Show steps

Challenge yourself to create a unique piece of music from start to finish

Show steps

Develop a song idea, including lyrics, melody, and chord progression
Record your vocals and instruments
Edit and mix the different tracks
Master the final mix

Organize a listening party for your work

Show steps

Present your music to a small audience and collect feedback

Show steps

Invite friends, family, or other musicians to a listening party
Set up a comfortable and intimate listening environment
Play your music and encourage everyone to share their thoughts

Career center

Learners who complete The Art of Music Production will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Audio Engineer

An Audio Engineer is responsible for recording, mixing, and mastering audio content. They work in a variety of settings, such as recording studios, broadcast facilities, and post-production houses. This course, The Art of Music Production, can help you develop the skills you need to succeed in this career. You will learn how to use recording equipment, edit and mix audio, and master your tracks to create professional-sounding recordings. You will also learn about the music industry and how to market your work.

See salaries and explore the career path for Audio Engineer

Music Producer

A Music Producer is responsible for overseeing the recording and production of music. They work with artists, engineers, and other professionals to create high-quality recordings. This course can help you develop the skills you need to become a successful Music Producer. You will learn about the music industry, how to work with artists, and how to produce recordings that meet the highest standards.

See salaries and explore the career path for Music Producer

Recording Engineer

A Recording Engineer is responsible for recording and mixing audio content. They work in a variety of settings, such as recording studios, broadcast facilities, and post-production houses. This course can help you develop the skills you need to succeed in this career. You will learn how to use recording equipment, edit and mix audio, and master your tracks to create professional-sounding recordings.

See salaries and explore the career path for Recording Engineer

Music Director

A Music Director is responsible for overseeing the musical aspects of a production. They work with musicians, singers, and other performers to create a cohesive and engaging performance. This course can help you develop the skills you need to become a successful Music Director. You will learn about music theory, conducting, and how to work with musicians.

See salaries and explore the career path for Music Director

Sound Designer

A Sound Designer is responsible for creating and editing sound effects for film, television, and other media. They work with directors, producers, and other professionals to create a sonic environment that enhances the storytelling. This course can help you develop the skills you need to become a successful Sound Designer. You will learn about sound design theory, how to use sound editing software, and how to create realistic sound effects.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sound Designer

Music Teacher

A Music Teacher is responsible for teaching music to students of all ages. They work in a variety of settings, such as schools, music studios, and community centers. This course can help you develop the skills you need to become a successful Music Teacher. You will learn about music theory, pedagogy, and how to work with students.

See salaries and explore the career path for Music Teacher

Composer

A Composer writes original music for a variety of purposes, such as film, television, and video games. They work with directors, producers, and other professionals to create a musical score that enhances the storytelling. This course can help you develop the skills you need to become a successful Composer. You will learn about music theory, composition techniques, and how to write for different media.

See salaries and explore the career path for Composer

Musician

A Musician performs music on an instrument or sings. They work in a variety of settings, such as concert halls, recording studios, and churches. This course can help you develop the skills you need to become a successful Musician. You will learn about music theory, performance techniques, and how to work with other musicians.

See salaries and explore the career path for Musician

Audiovisual Technician

An Audiovisual Technician is responsible for setting up and operating audio and visual equipment for events and productions. They work in a variety of settings, such as concert halls, theaters, and conference centers. This course can help you develop the skills you need to become a successful Audiovisual Technician. You will learn about audio and visual equipment, how to set up and operate it, and how to troubleshoot problems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Audiovisual Technician

Broadcast Engineer

A Broadcast Engineer is responsible for maintaining and operating broadcast equipment. They work in a variety of settings, such as television stations, radio stations, and satellite companies. This course can help you develop the skills you need to become a successful Broadcast Engineer. You will learn about broadcast equipment, how to maintain and operate it, and how to troubleshoot problems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Broadcast Engineer

Multimedia Artist

A Multimedia Artist creates art using a variety of media, such as sound, images, and video. They work in a variety of settings, such as studios, galleries, and museums. This course can help you develop the skills you need to become a successful Multimedia Artist. You will learn about multimedia art theory, production techniques, and how to exhibit your work.

See salaries and explore the career path for Multimedia Artist

Music Librarian

A Music Librarian is responsible for managing and preserving music collections. They work in a variety of settings, such as libraries, universities, and museums. This course can help you develop the skills you need to become a successful Music Librarian. You will learn about music librarianship, cataloging, and preservation techniques.

See salaries and explore the career path for Music Librarian

Music Therapist

A Music Therapist uses music to help people with physical, emotional, and cognitive disabilities. They work in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and schools. This course may be useful for you if you are interested in becoming a Music Therapist. You will learn about music therapy techniques, how to work with clients, and how to evaluate the effectiveness of your work.

See salaries and explore the career path for Music Therapist

Arts Administrator

An Arts Administrator manages the business and operations of arts organizations. They work in a variety of settings, such as theaters, museums, and dance companies. This course may be useful for you if you are interested in becoming an Arts Administrator. You will learn about arts management principles, how to budget and manage finances, and how to market and promote arts organizations.

See salaries and explore the career path for Arts Administrator

Event Planner

An Event Planner plans and coordinates events, such as weddings, conferences, and parties. They work with clients to determine their needs and budget, and then plan and execute the event. This course may be useful for you if you are interested in becoming an Event Planner. You will learn about event planning principles, how to budget and manage finances, and how to market and promote events.

See salaries and explore the career path for Event Planner

Reading list

We've selected eight books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in The Art of Music Production.

Cover image

Cover image

The Mixing Engineer's Handbook

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Comprehensive guide to the art and science of recording. It covers everything from microphones and recording techniques to mixing and mastering. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the recording process.

The Mixing Engineer's Handbook

The Mixing Engineer's Handbook

Cover image

Cover image

Recording Secrets for the Small Studio

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Practical guide to mixing music in a small studio. It covers everything from choosing the right equipment to mixing techniques. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn how to mix their own music.

Recording Secrets for the Small Studio (Sound On...

Recording Secrets for the Small Studio (Sound On...

Recording Secrets for the Small Studio (Sound On...

Cover image

Cover image

Mastering Audio

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Comprehensive guide to the art and science of mastering audio. It covers everything from the basics of mastering to advanced techniques. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the mastering process.

Mastering Audio: The Art and the Science

Cover image

Cover image

Recording and Producing in the Home Studio

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Step-by-step guide to recording music in your home studio. It covers everything from choosing the right equipment to recording techniques. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn how to record their own music.

Recording and Producing in the Home Studio: A...

Recording and Producing in the Home Studio: A...

Cover image

Cover image

Franz Waxman's Rebecca

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The Complete Guide to Music Production comprehensive guide to the art and science of music production. It covers everything from the basics of recording and mixing to advanced techniques like MIDI and synthesis.

Franz Waxman's Rebecca: A Film Score Guide (Volume...

Franz Waxman's Rebecca: A Film Score Guide (Film...

Cover image

Cover image

Save

Modern Recording Techniques comprehensive guide to the art and science of recording music in a modern recording studio.

Cybercrime: The Transformation of Crime in the...

Policing Cybercrime: Networked and Social Media...

Cover image

Cover image

Modern Recording Techniques

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The Audio Production Handbook comprehensive guide to the art and science of audio production. It covers everything from the basics of recording and mixing to advanced techniques like signal processing and mastering.

Modern Recording Techniques: A Practical Guide to...

Modern Recording Techniques: A Practical Guide to...

Cover image

Cover image

Save

Sound for Film and Television comprehensive guide to the art and science of sound for film and television.

5.1 Surround Sound: Up and Running

Surround Sound: Up and running

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Rating

4.8

Effort

Approx. 13 hours

Level

Intermediate

Via

Coursera

Institution

Berklee

Instructor

Stephen Webber

Language

English

Transcripts

Español Français Português Deutsch Italiano 中文 العربية 한국어 日本語 हिंदी Nederlands Svenska Pусский Türkçe Polski Ελληνικά українська мова magyar nyelv Bahasa Indonesia ไทย қазақша اُردُو, فارسی বাংলা پښتو آذربایجان دیلی

The Art of Music Production belongs to the following collections:

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Develops skills in identifying and addressing the sonic signature of a song

Teaches essential listening strategies for effective music production and artistic development

Provides a creative and comprehensive study of the art of music production, which is highly relevant to the music industry

Suitable for learners of varied experience levels, as it offers a combination of fundamental concepts and advanced techniques

Stephen Webber's expertise as a renowned producer enhances the course's credibility

The course's multi-modal format, including discussions, peer reviews, and hands-on assignments, enhances engagement and learning

The online platform is convenient and accessible for remote learning

Share this

Share to help others discover this course.

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