The Intro to Ableton course is a hands-on journey into music production using Ableton Live. Students will explore the fundamental tools and workflows needed to create, edit, and complete a track. This course is ideal for beginners eager to make music using MIDI, audio, and effects inside one of the industry’s most powerful DAWs.
By the end of the course, students will have produced and shared a short original track using MIDI sequencing, audio manipulation, and basic mixing tools.

 

 

  • Ableton Live Basics
    • Learn the interface, Session and Arrangement Views, browser, control bar, and track setup.
  • Warping and Audio Editing
    • Align audio to tempo, loop and trim clips, add fades, and apply creative edits.
  • MIDI Clip Creation
    • Enter notes, quantize timing, edit velocity, and set loop and clip parameters.
  • Sampling with Simpler
    • Load, chop, tune, and shape samples with ADSR to build playable instruments.
  • Drum Rack and Beat Programming
    • Build custom kits, map pads, add groove and swing, and save reusable racks.
  • Synthesis Fundamentals
    • Use oscillators, filters, envelopes, and LFOs to design leads and basses.
  • Effects and Routing
    • Apply EQ, compression, reverb, delay, modulation FX, returns, and FX chains.
  • Automation, Mixing, and Export
    • Write automation, balance a mix, and export a master and stems.

  • Produce an original track 2 to 3 minutes long with a clear, dynamic structure.
  • Warp and edit at least two audio clips to session tempo with clean crossfades.
  • Program a complete drum pattern in Drum Rack with quantization and groove applied.
  • Design at least two custom sounds using subtractive synthesis or Simpler.
  • Automate at least three parameters to create transitions and movement.
  • Mix for clarity using EQ and compression with master peaks below -1 dBFS.
  • Export a 44.1 kHz, 24-bit WAV and organized stems with labeled, color-coded tracks.

This product is currently out of stock and unavailable.

Here’s what our students are saying

“It was really nice to have a facility where I could come in and meet other people in the industry. I felt like I got more than just learning how to produce from the course. It kind of gave me tidbits that’ll help me as I continue to grow in my career and creative process.”

DJ Somani, Intro to Logic

“The SoundCollective community has enhanced my learning experience by having such a friendly and welcoming environment. As soon as I walk in here, I’m not met with an environment where I don’t fit in. I’m a lot more open and welcomed to ask any questions. The community here definitely enhances growth.”

Ashley T., Intro to Rekordbox and CDJs

“I’ve always been interested in music. This was sort of my way to push myself and get myself out there. I think honestly the best thing is the community that I’m getting. I didn’t realize how great the in-person element would be.”

Anna W., Intro to Rekordbox and CDJs

“I was motivated to enroll in the program because I wanted to take my music career to the next level. I had no technical music production skills before this. The information and the knowledge I gained I could apply immediately and start making music at home.”

Carlos S., Intro to Ableton

Hands-On Learning in New York City

Industry-standard tools of the trade and a playful space you can use to reach toward your artistic goals.

Our constantly growing community of student artists allows to work on your next project, practice for your next gig, or explore new technology. Our space is the place for you to learn, grow, and create.