Overview
Building Blocks is our foundational music production course, perfect for students looking to jump into music production for the first time or self-taught music makers seeking structure and professional guidance.
In this 3-month course, you'll participate in engaging, interactive classes focused on the essentials of producing music using Ableton Live, the industry-standard software for producers worldwide. From creating your first beat to understanding song structure and music theory, you'll learn how to build tracks from scratch—even if you've never used music production software.
With an emphasis on creative self-expression and musicianship, Building Blocks will teach you how to find your sound and transform your musical ideas into fully realized tracks. With weekly assignments, in-depth course notes, and class recordings, students are fully supported. By the end of the course, you’ll finish your first track and be ready to continue your music production journey.
Course Outcomes
• Learn Ableton Live: Gain confidence in using Ableton Live, from basic functionality to advanced techniques.
• Understand Music Production: Deepen your understanding of the music you love by learning how it’s made.
• Expand Your Musical Vocabulary: Master essential music theory and improve your songwriting without relying on pre-made loops.
• Produce Your First Track: By the end of the course, you'll have written and produced your own original song, from start to finish.
Class Topics
Ableton Live: Learn the ins and outs of Ableton Live, the industry-standard software used by music makers around the world.
Beatmaking and Drum Programming: Dive into beatmaking and drum programming using Ableton Live and Ableton Push hardware. Learn to sequence drum patterns, understand drum machine rhythms, timing, tempo, swing, and how to create compelling beats that drive your tracks.
Essential Music Theory: Dive into essential music theory concepts, including melodies, notes, scales, and chords. Learn to write original pieces of music without relying on samples and pre-made loops.
Session View vs. Arrangement View: Explore the differences between Ableton's Session View and Arrangement View. Develop flexible musical ideas in Session View, then transition to Arrangement View to turn recordings into fully arranged tracks.
Song Structure and Arrangement: Learn how to structure your music by studying popular tracks and understanding fundamental arrangement techniques. Develop the skills to transform your musical ideas into complete, well-arranged songs.
Circle Community
As part of the IO Music Academy Circle, students gain exclusive access to an online hub where they can connect, collaborate, and receive feedback on their tracks. You'll get lifetime access to course materials such as class recordings, dynamic notes, and workshop videos.
Weekly workshops and collaboration opportunities with fellow students and alumni ensure that you stay engaged and continue to grow, even after completing the course.
Program Options
Building Blocks is a cornerstone of several artist programs we offer, giving you the opportunity to expand your skills further:
New Producer Program (6 Months)
Singer Producer Program (9 Months)
DJ Producer Program (9 Months)
Electronic Producer Program (12 Months)
Total Producer Program (18-24 Months)
Custom Producer Program (6-24 Months)
By enrolling in one of these programs, you'll benefit from a comprehensive learning experience at a reduced per-course cost, perfect for those committed to becoming professional producers.
Student Requirements
• Laptop (2019 or newer MacBook Pro recommended)
• Wired Headphones
• 49-Key MIDI Keyboard
• Ableton Live 12 (available at 40% off)
Ready to Get Started?
When you’re ready to take the next step, select your city below to enroll in Building Blocks and begin your journey at IO Music Academy.
Still have questions? Click here to schedule a tour with one of our team members to learn more about our music production programs and see if IO Music Academy is the right fit for you.