Beginner training plan
Your first lessonTopics:
Intro to the DAW: What is Ableton?
Audio interface / MIDI / Headphones setup
Tour of the Ableton interface (Session vs Arrangement View)
Basic audio vs MIDI track
Playing with stock sounds (Drum Rack, Simpler)
Making your first loop (using drum samples or preloaded clips)
Lesson 2-3Topics:
Understanding tempo, bars, grid, quantization
Programming drums (kick, snare, hi-hats)
Introduction to MIDI (drawing vs playing notes)
Adding basslines and melodies
Using scale helper + piano roll
Basic clip editing and session view jamming
Mini Project: Create a full 8-bar loop with drums, bass, and melody.
Lesson 4-10Lesson 4:
Arrangement View intro: turn loops into a song
Track structure: Intro, Hook, Verse, Outro
Lesson 5:
Audio editing & sample manipulation (e.g., chopping vocals, stretching)
Lesson 6:
Automation (volume, effects, panning)
Adding FX: reverb, delay, filters
Lesson 7:
Sound selection: how to pick the right instruments
Layering sounds for depth
Lesson 8:
Basic mixing: volume balance, EQ, panning
Loud vs clear
Lesson 9:
Reference tracks: what to listen for
Finishing their first full demo (2 min+)
Lesson 10:
Exporting stems / mastering basics
How to share your music online
Project: Student finishes their first song from scratch.
Lesson 11+Goal: Move into creative direction, niche skills, and personal goals.
Focus options based on student interest:
Beat Making: Advanced drum programming, swing, genre variations (trap, lo-fi, R&B, house)
Sound Design: Using Simpler, Wavetable, plugins like Arturia, etc.
Remixing: Chopping vocals, remixing songs
Recording Vocals: Mic setup, comping, and processing
Creative Direction: Building a brand sound
Releasing Music: Platforms, metadata, cover art, etc.
