Music Producing Tips For Beginners
The field of music production is where creativity meets technology to craft masterpieces. Whether you're a budding producer or a seasoned sound sculptor, the journey of transforming musical ideas into polished tracks can be both exhilarating and complex. Knowing where to start can be challenging, but here are a few tips and tricks that can make the process easier.
Recording Gear
When getting started with producing music, it is important to have the correct gear to give yourself all of the resources needed to create a song. There is a wide variety of microphones, audio interfaces, and recording software that plays a pivotal role in capturing musical performances.
For starters, you want to make sure that you have a decent computer that will be able to store all of your songs and keep up with any programs that you may use. If your budget allows for dual screens, make sure you take it! Furthermore, having a top-notch audio interface can ensure a pristine signal path to the recording software.
A high-quality microphone can lend warmth to vocals or precisely capture the resonance of instruments. If you intend on recording in your own studio, having a way to record a set of clear recordings can make the process of editing and fusing the tracks together easier.
Wall pads are not needed but they can help improve the quality of recordings by reducing vibrations of the sound bouncing off of hard surfaces. If you want to ensure the same quality of sound each time, wall pads could be a good investment.
However, it is important to remember that it's not merely about amassing an impressive array of gadgets, but rather about selecting the tools that align with your artistic goals which enables you to translate your creative vision into reality.
Understanding Music Theory
Music theory serves as the foundation for all creative masterpieces. Understanding the language of scales, chords, and harmonies provides producers with a roadmap to navigate the vast landscape of musical expression.
The deeper your understanding is of music theory, the more you can learn when it’s okay to bend the rules and alter the guidelines. Many composers and producers tend to do this when they have a specific vision for a new piece. You can find several songs where the rules are broken such as “Johnny B. Goode” by Chuck Berry, “Space Oddity” by David Bowie, and many of Beethoven’s works.
Music theory is a guiding force, allowing producers to elevate their creations with a harmonious blend of artistry and technical prowess. With the growth of technology, bending the rules has gotten easier and there have even been new rules created to accommodate the evergrowing industry. Don’t be afraid to try new sounds and use what you have around you to create a brand-new sound!
Respect Your Ears and Tastes
Respecting and embracing your personal tastes are a key factor in authentic and fulfilling music production. In a world filled with diverse genres and styles, understanding what resonates with you on a deeper level becomes a compass for your creative journey.
Your unique preferences, whether influenced by specific genres, moods, or even unconventional sounds, are a part of what distinguishes your musical identity. Rather than succumbing to external pressures or trends, honoring your own taste empowers you to create music that genuinely reflects your artistic vision.
Whether your heart beats to the rhythm of electronic beats, classic melodies, or experimental sounds, recognizing and respecting your personal tastes is the compass that guides you through the vast and ever-evolving landscape of music production.
Practice Makes Perfect
It’s okay if it takes a few tries to discover what sound and genre you like. What’s important is remembering to practice and understand that you don’t have to get it right on the first try. Professionals in any field spend hours practicing in order to perfect their craft.
The act of creating music is an evolving journey, where each note played, every beat produced, and all the hours spent refining your craft contribute to a cumulative reservoir of expertise. Just as a musician refines their technique through repetitive exercises, a music producer sharpens their abilities by continuously experimenting with sounds, arrangements, and production tools.
Embracing the mantra of "practice makes perfect" in music creation not only refines your skills but also opens the door to limitless possibilities, allowing your artistry to evolve and resonate with ever-greater depth and authenticity. Don’t be afraid to test your music too. Having people listen to short tracks can help you learn where your strengths are and can boost your confidence.
References:
https://dittomusic.com/en/blog/10-important-music-production-tips-for-beginners
https://blog.native-instruments.com/ways-to-get-better-at-music-production/