Electronic music is everywhere these days and with current technology, a new breed of musician is able to create, distribute and promote their music from almost anywhere, anytime. I caught up with Chris Noonan from Oxygen College to get the low down on what Electronic Music Production is all about and how to get started.
How easy is it to start making electronic music?
Electronic music creation can take on multiple forms and there are many ways to get started, it really depends on what you want to achieve. Advances in technology have made the creation of electronic music affordable and easy to achieve. A great example of this is a product by Ableton called Push. Push is a new instrument that allows you to control melody, harmony, beats, sounds, and song structure. Push puts the fundamental elements of music making at your fingertips – and it fits in a backpack alongside your laptop!
What type of basic equipment is needed to start creating?
A simple inexpensive analog synthesizer can begin the process or you may wish to do multitrack recordings using a computer and software. Synthesis is easily performed with products like the new KORG Volca and beyond experimenting and performance, recording your ideas will require a computer/laptop an Audio interface and a DAW (sequencing software). Komplete Audio 6 by Native Instruments is a USB Powered, Low-latency audio interface perfect for a compact recording setup and Ableton Live 9 Intro, Standard or Suite 9 are great platforms for the artist starting out or the pro taking on the world stage.
What if I just want to mix songs by my favourite artists?
Native Instruments Traktor S2 or S4 is the trusted choice of pros while still remaining beginner friendly. Otherwise you can use the Z1 controller loaded with Traktor and rock the party from your iPhone or iPad.
Once an artist has began creating with a basic set up, what other gear can be added to take their music to the next level?
Creation and inspiration come in many forms. The important thing for you may be putting your own stamp on a song or improving your workflow to keep tapped into that inspiration. For example, having a decent set of Speakers can save you having to check and re-check your songs as they develop. This can be achieved at a fairly low cost with some trusted brands. Mackie MR Mark 3 Series studio monitors are an excellent example. MIDI Controller Keyboards are also a fantastic way to interact with your DAW and its VST instruments. Other common additions to a basic recording setup are: Headphones, Mixing desks, Microphones, Microphone pre-amps and good quality VST instruments/Plugins like Native Instruments Komplete 9.
With this type of equipment what styles/genres are artists able to create?
With the advent of modern music Technology, musical styles and genres have almost endless sub-categories. If it’s Techno, House, Hip Hop, Dub Step, Drum n Bass or Industrial Acid Moon Rock, you can create it and achieve magical results from the comfort of your bedroom.
How has the internet and sites such as YouTube effected the distribution of electronic music and the exposure that can be obtained by releasing music direct to the public?
The internet and Social Media like Youtube, Bandcamp and Facebook have opened a new chapter in the book of music. You can record, release, publish and promote a song yourself from your computer and have the chance to reach a wider audience than ever before.
For someone creating electronic music, are there opportunities to perform live and if so what kind of skills sets are required?
Live Performance opportunities are readily available, from your friends 18th Birthday to your local venues, festivals, national tours and on to the International stage. Don’t forget the internet! Music performance as an art form can be anything you like and as long as you have an audience, an imagination and a song or two, you have a recipe for sharing your skills with others.
Any other tips for people looking at getting into EMP?
Get Inspired. What makes you excited about music? Listen to a variety of music, talk to people about music, whether its friends, family or your local music shop. Remember, music is about the sound and feel of the instrument/equipment so ensure you learn how to use it, practise hard and develop your skills.
Chris Noonan is the coordinator of Oxygen College’s Electronic Music Production course. For more info on equipment, getting started or how to further develop your skills, contact Chris on 52 159175 or email [email protected]
Written by Phil Kearney