5 tips for aspiring music producers.

At Spirit Studios, we love music and sound. That’s why we’re here to help anyone who wants to get into music production. Here our five of our music production tips for beginners:

Listen to a variety of music

By listening to a range of music, you’re expanding on your musical knowledge and experiencing new sounds and ideas that you might not have heard before. Solely listening to the same genre you want to produce could restrict your development. Listen to a range of styles to find inspiration and get the creative juices flowing.

Experiment

If you think there’s potential in something, then have a go. After all, originality is key for standing out in such a competitive industry. Trying something new, and maybe even unconventional, could help you create exactly what you’re looking for. It’s also a great way to learn. If you don’t try, you’ll never know. 

There’s no need for lots of equipment starting out

Essentially, all you need to get started is a computer, a digital audio workstation (DAW) and a pair of headphones. You may want a MIDI keyboard or controller if you want to utilise some software instruments, or perhaps an audio interface and a microphone if you want to record vocals and a guitar. 

Over time and with experience, you’ll gather a greater understanding of what you might need next to take your productions to the next level, whether it be a pair of monitors, some plug-ins and software instruments or even some hardware. Keep an eye out for sales, especially around Black Friday. Students also benefit from discounts on a range of software and hardware.

Choose a DAW that works for you

This is an important one, because you could be using your DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) for a long time. Whether you plan on using a free DAW or buying one, we recommend you conduct some research before committing. It could save you money and time down the road.

All DAWs are different, and your workflow could vary depending on the one you choose. Some have a steeper learning curve than others, certain features and tools may be exclusive to a particular DAW, and others are perhaps more suited to working with recorded audio. It’s crucial you pick one that works for you. Popular DAWs that are used at Spirit Studios include Ableton Live Suite, Logic Pro and Pro Tools Ultimate.

Take care of your ears

This is our most important tip for music producers. Your ears are your most valuable tool and they are irreplaceable. Listening or mixing at high volumes and for long periods of time can cause permanent damage. Protect your ears by listening to music at a low volume and take regular breaks. If you go to club nights, gigs or any loud events, always wear attenuating ear plugs. When you can, invest in a pair of professionally moulded earplugs for improved performance and comfort. Tinnitus isn’t uncommon for those who are subjected to loud noise without hearing protection, and for some it can be incredibly distressing. 

Strive for your music production dream!

Did you find our music production tips for beginners useful? Well, if you’re an undergraduate or postgraduate looking for a Music Production course, we offer a BA (Hons) Music Production course and a MA Music Production course. Or if you prefer to get into music management and events, then our Music Business courses are just for you!

Our Sound Engineering courses are fantastic if you’re eager to learn how to record and deliver audio to the highest standards. We’ll help you gain the essential skills you need to send a shockwave through the music industry! Want to plan some incredible shows? Well the skills you’ll develop on our Event Management courses will help you do exactly that! 

You’ll get real opportunities, learn from industry experts, and develop your skills on your journey to a career in music and sound. Take a look at our range of subject areas, or see what student life at Spirit Studios is like by attending one of our open days.

If you’re ready to kickstart your music career, then apply now for the course that suits you. Contact us today if you want to find out more.