Into the world of production

[zaporzan]

Hello everyone,

It is my dream to become a producer in the electronic music industry. To create my own professional music, perform, travel the world, ect. It may seem like a cliched dream (probably is), however, I am really keen on pursuing this dream and achieving my goal. However, I don't know where to start, what to expect, and where to learn. What should I do based on my situation?

I am a 16 year old in Canada. There isn't any electronic music scene (Trance, Drum & Bass, House, etc.) where I live, Only Pop, Rock, and Hip-Hop. The only place to go to is the internet. Over the internet I have learned the basics of any DAW (except trackers), the basics of most genres of music, and the basics of DJing. Now I sit here on my computer with 7 Computer Music magazines, 3 small pieces of gear (25 key MIDI keyboard, Hercules dj console Rmx, and Sennheiser HD 280 pro's), and the internet.

I only have 1 year until High-School is finished and I'll have to go to University somewhere or in the workforce. I have no idea what to do to achieve my goal, what to expect in the music industry, how much work is needed, and where to start. I have browsed through this forum and I noticed there are many experienced and professional people here. Could you please point me in the correct direction?

All help is very appreciated,
Justin Zaporzan

[Reptil]

1. learn to play an instrument. ANY instrument. take lessons. SLAVE until playing and expressing yourself through it becomes a second language.
2. follow your heart. what is your connection with music?
you got to really go for it, so without loving it, it's going to be hard
3. learn to listen "into the music" instead of just enjoying it. (ask yourself why, and how) - more important than getting the best samples.

Oh and get decent monitors and a good soundcard, and some software that you feel comfortable with. Be careful of headphones. They can make you deaf without you noticing it.

and let no one (including me) tell you what to do.

[corwinstephen]

Everyone who was ever interested in making music has been where you are right now, and I really do believe that it's this point in your life that separates the people who truly desire to make music, from those who want the money and the fame.

So here's what you do: You prepare yourself for a series of several very long days at the computer, you sit down, and you read. If you really are at a basic level, find the tutorial that comes with whatever DAW you'd like to use, and learn to use your software like the back of your hand. And once you've got that down, you dedicate the rest of your free time to both using what you already know to practice writing music, and to searching for new information and techniques.

There are only two ways this could end up. Either you'll open up the first page of the tutorial, and realize that you don't really feel like reading when you could be out doing something else, at which point your story ends, or, you'll remain determined no matter how discouraged and troubled you feel, and you'll pursue your dreams. Don't worry about the whole touring and performing thing; If you make good music, you won't have to struggle to build a following. The business will come to you.

If you've got music inside your head, it'll find a way to let itself out. You just have to support it while it's figuring it out.

[space2012]

Originally Posted by zaporzan

I am a 16 year old in Canada. There isn't any electronic music scene... Could you please point me in the correct direction?

no electronic music scene in canada ?

[doubledecker]

There is no recipe.
Everyone's story is probably different.
Get hold of Cubase,Logic,FL or whatever and learn it inside out.
Any of these new sequencer programs are so complex that most of us are only scratching the surface.
And in each of them you can make song from start to finish just by using internal synths,samplers,eq,compressors, etc.
Learn some basic keyboard playing.
Its not necessary, it just makes life easier and you can get results faster.
On the other hand i cant play keyboards and yet i work as a producer for 20 years now,making good living and programming my own keyboard parts just by ear.
Most important thing in music is the time you put in it.
More time you spend at the computer= better results.
More time you spend at the computer= faster results.
And if you are talented you will succeed.

[chrisso]

I'm a bit shocked that everyone's number one suggestion is to spend hours at the computer.
For one thing, there is no premium on speed for the electronic musician.
If it takes you a day to finish a track, or two weeks, it wont increase your output or your income. There's only so many tracks you can release over a short period without swamping the available fanbase.

Secondly, I would highly recommend finding something you would enjoy studying at college/university.
The music business in general and specifically electronic music don't have a certain future. It is the norm for musicians and producers to supplement their income from a variety of sources. A second qualification/career will give you something secure to fall back on.
Just as importantly, 3 or 4 years at university will give you more time to develop your music, expose you to a lot of new experiences and place you in a hothouse environment with similar people to yourself.
Of course, studying music and taking music to a higher level like university would be GREAT.
Finally, I agree with those who've suggested learning at least one musical instrument.

[zaporzan]

Thank you everyone. I really appreciate the help. I haven't made a definite decision of what to do yet. I will spend every waking moment trying to better myself though. I will go to university somewhere. I like the idea of having something safe and secure to fall back on if music doesn't work out.

Originally Posted by space2012

no electronic music scene in canada ?

Where I live in Canada. Belleville.

[Tapwatr]

When you're older move out of Belleville, your in between two big cities with big scenes. Montreal has a very nice electronic music scene. Mutek, Igloofest, Piknic Electronic and Eclipse Festival are all amazing events. Toronto also has a lot going on. James Holden just played here for about 4000 people outside in in the snow at -10.

You really need to network, make contacts with people who are like minded. My trip began when I starting organizing parties. I'd ask artist a million questions about their techniques and found out the stuff I wanted to know. I also dj which helps a lot. I have been lucky to play all over in Europe and made many contacts that way also but it all started by connections I made from organizing parties with international artists.

You need to be very dedicated and stick with it, it takes awhile and I've known many people who have quit.

[chrisso]

Montreal certainly has a VERY interesting music scene.

[crufty]

just general advice--a wise man once told me:

two things impact a dream
- other dreams
- reality

reality you can control, but typically (not always) at the expense of other dreams. so make sure you have a feeling for your other dreams too.

"know when to hold 'em, know when to fold 'em."

[chrisso]

Originally Posted by crufty

reality you can control, but typically (not always) at the expense of other dreams.

I don't understand that (forgive me I'm dense).

And while I'm at it, I also feel you can't always plan reality, you can just do what you can to prepare for it. With regards to reality I always liked this saying:
'Life is what happens when you are planning something else?'

[Dopamine]

I second the recommendation to learn an instrument. Practice every day for years.

[zaporzan]

Once again. Thank you all for helping me. You have all helped inspire and motivate me further.

[zebastian21]

Originally Posted by zaporzan

Hello everyone,

It is my dream to become a producer in the electronic music industry. To create my own professional music, perform, travel the world, ect. It may seem like a cliched dream (probably is), however, I am really keen on pursuing this dream and achieving my goal. However, I don't know where to start, what to expect, and where to learn. What should I do based on my situation?

I am a 16 year old in Canada. There isn't any electronic music scene (Trance, Drum & Bass, House, etc.) where I live, Only Pop, Rock, and Hip-Hop. The only place to go to is the internet. Over the internet I have learned the basics of any DAW (except trackers), the basics of most genres of music, and the basics of DJing. Now I sit here on my computer with 7 Computer Music magazines, 3 small pieces of gear (25 key MIDI keyboard, Hercules dj console Rmx, and Sennheiser HD 280 pro's), and the internet.

I only have 1 year until High-School is finished and I'll have to go to University somewhere or in the workforce. I have no idea what to do to achieve my goal, what to expect in the music industry, how much work is needed, and where to start. I have browsed through this forum and I noticed there are many experienced and professional people here. Could you please point me in the correct direction?

All help is very appreciated,
Justin Zaporzan

without doubt I would recommend you to learn Logic, it is the industry standard for electronic musicians, Also give Ableton Live a shot, it has become the djs Daw by choice. Also learn whichever DAW you chose like the palm of your hand, and buy the Future Music mag to check out the DVD where Pro musicians show the way they work.

[crufty]

Originally Posted by chrisso

I don't understand that (forgive me I'm dense).

Ah. Controlling reality is a bit strong I guess.

Suppose you are working at a mcdonalds on the beach. You gripe about the pay. Your mgr offers you a job inland that pays more, but now you aren't at the beach.

one might think their dream/need is high pay, but find out their dream/need is really to hang out the beach after work (metaphor for anything). That's all...simply think about all dreams while on the road to the one dream, and try not to permanently close doors until you are sure you want to commit. Some dreams/needs one might find they can do without (being an astronaut AND a dj) and some dreams/needs one might find they really need (family, shelter, food etc).

If one has the oppty attend a university, and the mental capacity to do so, I would strongly advise doing so in case the music thing doesn't pan out. BUT...that said, if everyone followed that advice where would we be? *shrug*

[msl]

I agree with Tapwater, I think the main thing is you need is to move, if you can go to college/university, then go to one in a big city with the best scene. Go out and get into that scene, make friends, other musicians, dj a bit if you can, have fun. Live the scene, learn your daw of choice, collaborate, one thing always leads to another.

The truism I've learned is that it's not the destination that matters so much as the journey.

[lcvl]

just make as much music as you can.
that's how you learn the craft.
can't believe nobody mentioned that.

[la grange]

Hi Justin,
Here is another one for you,
find a mid size studio and go and offer your help for free. You might end up making coffee or tea to start with. Being able to prepare a good brew will help you building a good relationship with producers and musicians....
but seriously, watch, learn, ask questions when the time is right, feel the work. A dream is one thing and reality is often another and that is why you need an experience. And as we all know, an experience is often what you got instead of what you wanted.
And after this, if you think you still want to do it then make a list of all the advices above and start digging.
But for sure, learn to be a musician before you spend time in front of a computer, programing tracks.

best of luck

Oli

[CircusofMind]

My advice would be to set incremental goals for yourself. Every time you sit down to make some music, try to learn something new. Patience is a virtue. One piece of advice I got when I was first starting out and I still try to remember is to never be lazy with your craft. If what you want to do takes weeks, then take the time to do it right. Eventually you will learn to do all these things faster and more efficiently, but at first it will be slow.

There will be plateaus where you feel you aren't getting anywhere. This is okay, just keep working and eventually breakthroughs will come. Inspiration and learning are interesting processes. Part is within your control, part is a mysterious property of the universe and your mind. Trust the process and don't give up.

[spunkadellic]

start by making tracks on your computer.

do it everyday for hours a day

you will notice they get better over time

[ignatius]

Originally Posted by spunkadellic

start by making tracks on your computer.

do it everyday for hours a day

you will notice they get better over time

+1

the best way to learn is to just start doing it. and go to college and have fun and learn something but always make tracks and learn new things. i don't think it's absolutely necessary to learn an instrument but it helps to know music and structure especially if you hope to venture into producing other people and doing some engineering

honestly.. college is a good place to be these days. economy sucks, not too many jobs out there..

also, as some one said.. there is no formula/recipe.. just make your own path and follow it as best you can and try to stay productive.

[Simon The Gooch]

Learning to DJ and playing (or at least going to) parties is pretty important. Just like knowing some theory is important, you also need to know what works on a crowd and why. I'm constantly having to edit other people's tracks because a breakdown might be too long etc... it kind of forces me to keep my own productions tight as well.

Learning to DJ with Ableton would be good because the techniques you use there would be applicable to your productions as well. However, you definitely lose a lot of the spontaneity (not even gonna try and spell that correctly) and honestly it's pretty boring to watch.

If you don't really care to DJ and just want to produce, get out there and party your ass off. Clubs, raves, house parties... go out and have a blast, and keep an eye on what the dancers are responding to. Just don't smoke too much weed or you'll never get anything done.

[Selidor]

Hey fellow Canadian! I hope some of this helps.

01) There is apparently a really good audio engineering school in Quebec, though the name does elude me, and Quebec has a really happening music scene. Before you go though you should have a thorough discussion with your health care provider, OHIP I believe it is for you, so you can understand how health care works in Quebec if you're from another province attending school there. It's a little wacky.

02) There is a really good audio engineering school in Vancouver, though the name eludes me as well. The West coast music scene isn't quite as happening as in Quebec, but the weather is beautiful here. Additionally after going to school in Vancouver you could go to UVic, in Victoria (the most beautiful city in Canada if you ask me), where they have an electronic music course that involves using a Buchla synthesizer (a 200 series modular I believe).

03) It doesn't really matter where you're located, though some places make it easier than others. If you got the talent and the drive, and you're willing to put in the time to really perfect your skills, you'll do well wherever you are.

04) Protect your ears. They're your greatest asset. Buy earplugs, carry them with you wherever you go, and wear them when you're in a situation involving loud noise (such as going to a club, concert, etc.).

05) It's already been said but is worth repeating: learn to play an instrument.

06) Learn a little music theory with the Complete Idiots Guide Music Theory.

07) If your compositions develop further give the HarperCollins College Outline for Music Theory a read.

08) Rick Snowman's Dance Music Manual contains tons of useful information for anyone wanting to work with electronic music.

09) Sound Studio Production Techniques, though no longer in print and only available used (I believe), is a great place for anybody to start as it covers a little bit of everything, even good habits to have when working in a studio environment or live.

10) Your ears are your greatest asset in the world of music, and Critical Listening Skills For Audio Professionals will certainly help you develop them.

11) You'll probably start working in a small studio, perhaps even a home studio, and the S.M.A.R.T. Guide to Recording Great Audio Tracks in a Small Studio is really quite handy when you're working with limited gear.

12) The S.M.A.R.T. Guide to Mixing And Mastering Audio Recordings is really quite useful for a beginner to learn audio enigeering techniques.

13) The S.M.A.R.T. Guide to Mixers, Signal Processors, Microphones, and More is a pretty good book to gain a decent understanding of general and specific knowledge about the gear you'll be using.

14) Always have a copy of Modern Recording Techniques available for reference when you really start to get in to it. I'm willing to bet this book is used as the textbook at most audio engineering schools, as it's quite thorough and full of information, though it can be an overwhelming read if you haven't developed a solid basic understanding of audio engineering first.

15) When you're ready to understand the mathematical point-of-view, as it is a ridiculously useful point-of-view to be able to utilize, check out Theory and Problems of Acoustics.

16) If you can find a studio or audio engineering that's willing to show you the ropes, perhaps in exchange for some menial tasks around the studio, that will provide you with a wealth of experience and knowledge.

17) Listen to as much music as possible -- even music from genres you don't want to work with or may even dislike. Seriously, listen to everything you can find or get your hands on, especially music that is considered in high regard for it's specific genre.

18) Have fun.

[Simon The Gooch]

Originally Posted by Selidor

06) Learn a little music theory with the Complete Idiots Guide Music Theory.

That reminds me, you should also check this out as it's pretty much aimed at dance/electronic producers and doesn't assume you know how to read sheet music etc...

Ravenspiral Guide to Music Theory 0.6

Definitely a good read, I actually skimmed through it recently and it's a great resource for a beginner.

[hogo]

I also think learning an instrument is very important, but be open to new interpretations as to what that means. By no means are you limited to the traditional instr.'s our predecessors played. I think electro and it's many similar music forms will eventually be the dominant music on the planet. There are so many new and innovative control devices, modular synths, and amazing sound libraries to explore with now. Think of anything you can use to produce inspiring music as an instrument, and learn that. Gotta find out what drives you, and follow that. Good luck

[zaporzan]

Thanks everyone. The advice, pointers, tips, and lead way have all inspired and prepared me very much.

Ever since the first couple of replies I have been working towards reading and learning as much as I can (wow there is a lot out there I need to learn). I really really appreciate every response on here. Thank you all very much!

Now I must get working!

Cheers,
zaporzan