How to Make Electronic Music has a fascinating history that stretches back to the mid-17th century, with early instruments like the electrified harpsichord and the clavecin électrique musical loom. However, it was in the 20th century that the first electronic musical instruments began to emerge in compositions, particularly through innovations like the Etherophone and Rhythmicon, created by the pioneering inventor Leon Theremin.
As technology has advanced, making electronic music has become more accessible than ever. The synthesizer units that were once limited to professional music studios are now widely available, allowing you to create electronic music either at home or as part of a live band. The process of arranging and recording electronic compositions has also evolved, with modern tools enabling artists to compose on the fly or in a dedicated music studio.
If you’re curious about how to make electronic music, you’ll find that today’s advancements in digital audio workstations (DAWs) and virtual instruments offer endless possibilities for creating unique, intricate tracks. From experimenting with synthesizers to using built-in loops and effects, the creative options for electronic music production are vast, making it easier than ever to bring your musical ideas to life.
In summary, how to make electronic music involves embracing both the history of these instruments and the powerful modern tools at your disposal, blending innovation with creativity to produce something truly unique.
Part1 Electronic Musical Instrument Components
How to Make Electronic Music with a Synthesizer
The synthesizer is the key component of electronic music production. It is the instrument that generates the actual sounds—beats, rhythms, and tones—that form the backbone of electronic compositions. While the term “synthesizer” is often used interchangeably with “electronic musical instrument,” the synthesizer specifically refers to the device that creates these sound elements.
Early Synthesizers: Monophonic Limitations
In the early days, synthesizers like the Moog Minimoog were monophonic, meaning they could produce only one sound at a time. Unlike traditional instruments, which could produce multiple tones simultaneously, these early synthesizers were limited in their tonal capabilities. However, there were some models that could create two tones at once, provided the musician pressed two keys simultaneously.
Polyphonic Synthesizers: Expanding Sound Possibilities
By the mid-1970s, synthesizers evolved to become polyphonic, meaning they could now produce multiple tones at once. This opened up new possibilities for electronic music, allowing musicians to create chords, harmonies, and more complex compositions alongside individual notes. This shift significantly changed how music was made, giving artists the ability to create more intricate and layered sounds.
Integration of Synthesizer and Controller
In the past, synthesizers were separate from their control units, with musicians using various methods (such as manual knobs, switches, or even theremins) to manipulate the sounds. However, with advancements in technology, many modern synthesizers now feature an integrated control unit. This integration has made electronic music production more accessible, especially for home musicians and casual users, who can now control the synthesizer and its sound manipulation features in a more intuitive way.
Manipulating the Synthesizer with the Instrument Controller
The way synthesizers are controlled has evolved significantly since their inception. Early synthesizers were manipulated through manual switches, knobs, or even the positioning of hands over the Theremin. Today, more intuitive, musician-friendly controllers are used, most of which communicate with the synthesizer through the Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) standard. Below are some of the key types of controllers used to manipulate synthesizers:
1. Keyboard Controller
The keyboard is the most common controller for synthesizers. Keyboards come in various sizes, ranging from full 88-key (7-octave) models found on digital pianos to smaller 25-key versions (2 octaves) used for more compact or beginner-friendly setups. The typical home-use keyboard features 49, 61, or 76 keys (4, 5, or 6 octaves). Some keyboards offer weighted keys, which simulate the feel of a traditional piano, while others use spring-loaded keys or a lighter combination of springs and weights. Many also have touch sensitivity, where the volume of the sound changes based on how hard the keys are struck.
2. Mouthpiece/Wind Controller
A wind controller is used with wind synthesizers, which are designed similarly to traditional wind instruments like a soprano saxophone, clarinet, or trumpet. Musicians blow into the mouthpiece to produce sound, and they can modify the tone by adjusting their finger positions or jaw movements.
3. MIDI Guitar
A MIDI guitar allows musicians to use their traditional acoustic or electric guitar with a pickup to control a synthesizer. The guitar’s string vibrations are converted into digital data, which is then translated into synthesized sounds. However, MIDI guitars can have a slight delay between input and output due to the time needed for digital sampling.
4. SynthAxe
The SynthAxe is no longer in production but was a unique controller that divided the fretboard into six diagonal zones. The amount of bending on the strings determined the tone produced, providing a guitar-like interface for controlling synthesizer sounds.
5. Keytar
The keytar is a hybrid controller that combines a 3-octave keyboard (on the body of the instrument) with additional controls on the neck, similar to the shape of a guitar. Inspired by the 18th-century orphica, the keytar gives musicians the mobility of a guitar while maintaining the control of a keyboard, making it ideal for live performances.
6. Electronic Drum Pads
Electronic drum pads were introduced in 1971 and typically come in kits similar to an acoustic drum set, including cymbals. Early versions played pre-recorded samples, while modern versions generate sounds mathematically. These kits can be used with headphones, so the player is the only one who hears the sound, making them ideal for practice or quiet performances.
7. Radio Drum
The radio drum was originally conceived as a three-dimensional mouse for controlling digital interfaces. It uses two sticks to sense their position on a “drum” surface. The sound produced varies depending on where the sticks touch, offering a unique and spatial way to manipulate sound.
8. BodySynth
The BodySynth is a wearable controller that responds to muscle tension and body movement. Originally designed for dancers and performance artists, it uses body motions to control sound and lighting. While difficult to control in its original form, simpler versions using gloves or shoes have made it more accessible to artists and performers.
These diverse controllers open up many creative possibilities, giving musicians unique ways to interact with their synthesizers and create a wide range of electronic sounds.
Part2 Electronic Music Production Equipment
Choosing the Right Computer System for Electronic Music Production
To create electronic music, having a reliable and powerful computer system is essential. While standalone electronic musical instruments can help you play music, a computer system is necessary for producing and arranging electronic tracks.
1. Desktop vs. Laptop
Both desktops and laptops can serve well for music production, but your choice will depend on how and where you plan to make music.
- Desktop: Ideal for music production at a fixed location, such as a home studio or a dedicated workspace. Desktops typically offer better performance and more upgrade options.
- Laptop: If you need portability and plan to produce music on the go, a laptop is a more convenient option. This is especially useful if you want to create music wherever you rehearse or travel.
2. Choose the Right Operating System
You should use the operating system you’re most comfortable with, but ensure it’s the latest version of either Windows or MacOS. These systems are optimized for music production and support most audio software and hardware.
- Windows: Often preferred by users who build custom setups for music production.
- MacOS: A popular choice in the music production industry, known for its stability and compatibility with professional audio software like Logic Pro.
3. Powerful CPU and Sufficient Memory
Your system needs a powerful CPU and enough memory to handle the demands of music production. When working with complex tracks, virtual instruments, and multiple layers of sound, the system must be able to process everything smoothly without lag or crashes.
- CPU: Look for multi-core processors that can handle simultaneous tasks (e.g., Intel i7 or AMD Ryzen 7).
- RAM: Aim for at least 16GB of RAM, especially if you plan to work with large sample libraries or high-quality virtual instruments.
If you’re unsure about the specs, a custom-built system for audio production or gaming can give you a solid starting point. These systems are built to handle resource-intensive tasks and will give you an idea of what kind of components to look for when selecting your computer.
Pairing Your Computer with Quality Sound Equipment
While it’s possible to make decent electronic music with the basic sound chip in your computer and budget speakers, upgrading your sound equipment can significantly improve your production quality. If you can afford it, here are a few essential upgrades to consider:
1. Sound Card (Audio Interface)
If you plan to do external recording (e.g., recording instruments or vocals), investing in a sound card or audio interface is highly recommended. These devices are designed to offer higher-quality audio input and output compared to your computer’s built-in sound card. A dedicated sound card will provide better sound clarity, less latency, and more reliable connections for professional recording and mixing.
2. Studio Monitors
Unlike regular computer speakers, studio monitors are designed specifically for accurate audio reproduction. They allow you to hear your music exactly as it is, without the distortion or coloring that regular speakers may add. This is crucial for mixing and mastering, as you want to make adjustments based on an accurate representation of the sound.
- Affordable Options: Brands like M-Audio and KRK Systems offer good-quality studio monitors at a lower cost.
- High-End Options: For top-tier audio quality, consider brands like Focal, Genelec, or Mackie, which are known for their superior sound accuracy and durability.
3. Studio-Grade Headphones
While studio monitors are great for tracking and mixing, studio-grade headphones are a must for focusing on individual parts of your track. Headphones allow you to listen closely to details like rhythm, sound levels, and subtle effects that might be harder to hear through speakers.
- Popular studio headphone brands include Beyerdynamic and Sennheiser, known for their accurate sound reproduction and comfort for long listening sessions.
By upgrading to these sound tools, you’ll have the gear necessary to produce electronic music with better precision and a higher level of detail, improving both your creative process and the final mix.
Installing Quality Music-Making Software
To create electronic music, you’ll need a variety of software tools that work together to help you compose, edit, and produce your tracks. Below are the essential types of software you’ll need to get started:
1. Digital Audio Workstation (DAW)
A Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) is the core software that allows you to compose, edit, and arrange music. It serves as the main interface where you can work with your sound sources, manipulate tracks, and mix your composition. The DAW simulates the functions of an analog music studio, providing track mixers, transport controls, and a waveform display of recorded audio.
Popular DAWs include:
- Ableton Live
- Cakewalk Sonar
- Cubase
- FL Studio
- Logic Pro (MacOS only)
- Pro Tools
- Reaper
- Reason
There are also free DAWs available for beginners, such as:
- Ardour
- Zynewave Podium
2. Audio Editor Program
An audio editor program provides more advanced editing capabilities than a DAW, allowing you to perform detailed operations like sample editing and file conversions. For example, you can edit individual sounds, trim unwanted parts, and convert your composition into MP3 format.
Some popular audio editors include:
- Sound Forge Audio Studio (affordable and user-friendly)
- Audacity (freeware and open-source)
3. Virtual Studio Technology (VST) Synthesizers/Instruments
VST synthesizers are software versions of the synthesizers that you’d use in an electronic music setup. These plugins can be installed directly into your DAW, providing a wide range of synthetic sounds without needing physical hardware instruments.
- You can find free VST synths by searching for terms like “free soft synths” or “free VSTi” online.
- For more advanced options, consider purchasing VST instruments from providers like Artvera, H.G. Fortune, IK Multimedia, Native Instruments, or reFX.
4. VST Effects
VST effects plugins allow you to apply a variety of musical effects to your sounds, such as reverb, delay, chorus, and more. These effects can shape the tone and atmosphere of your tracks, adding depth and texture.
- Like VST synthesizers, VST effects can be found in both paid and free versions from providers like Native Instruments and Artvera, as well as third-party sites.
5. Samples
Samples are pre-recorded musical sounds, beats, or loops that you can incorporate into your tracks. They come in various genres (e.g., blues, rock, jazz, rap) and include individual sounds or complete loops. Using samples allows you to enhance your compositions without creating everything from scratch.
- Commercial sample packs are usually royalty-free, meaning you can buy the license to use them in your music.
- Many audio software companies offer access to free samples online, and there are numerous third-party sources for both free and paid sample packs.
By installing these key software components, you’ll have everything you need to create, manipulate, and perfect your electronic music compositions.
Considering a MIDI Controller for Music Production
While it’s possible to compose music using your computer’s keyboard as a “virtual piano keyboard” and the mouse for editing, most musicians find it more intuitive and natural to use a MIDI controller. A MIDI controller allows for more expressive control over your music, making the process more dynamic and responsive.
1. MIDI Keyboard Controller
The MIDI keyboard is the most common type of controller used for music production. It works by sending MIDI data to your computer, allowing you to play virtual instruments within your DAW, such as synthesizers, pianos, and drums. MIDI keyboards come in various sizes, from compact 25-key models to full 88-key setups. Many also feature velocity-sensitive keys, meaning the harder you press, the louder the sound.
2. Other Types of MIDI Controllers
Aside from the traditional MIDI keyboard, there are several other types of MIDI controllers that can help you add different elements to your music production. These can include:
- Pad controllers (ideal for triggering drum sounds or samples)
- Wind controllers (great for musicians who prefer to play using wind instruments)
- MIDI guitars (allowing guitarists to control synthesizers via their regular guitar)
- Keytars (combining the mobility of a guitar with the functionality of a keyboard)
If your DAW supports these controllers, they can be integrated into your workflow to provide a more versatile and customized music-making experience.
Using a MIDI controller can make your production process feel more like a traditional music performance, providing you with greater precision and creative flexibility.
Part3 Before Making Your Own Electronic Music
Learning Some Basic Music Theory
While it’s possible to create electronic music without knowing how to read music, understanding some basic music theory can significantly improve your compositions. It helps you understand musical structure, make better arrangements, and spot mistakes in your work before they become problematic.
1. Why Music Theory Matters
Music theory provides the foundation for understanding how different musical elements work together. Even a basic knowledge of theory can enhance your ability to create harmonious melodies, arrange your tracks effectively, and make informed decisions during production. It can also help you troubleshoot and identify issues in your music, making your workflow smoother and more efficient.
2. What You Can Learn
There are various aspects of music theory that can benefit electronic music producers, including:
- Scales: Understanding major and minor scales helps you create melodies and harmonies.
- Chords: Knowledge of chord progressions enables you to build rich, interesting harmonies in your tracks.
- Rhythm: Understanding rhythm and time signatures is crucial for creating well-structured beats and grooves.
- Intervals: Recognizing intervals between notes allows you to craft melodies that flow naturally.
For more detailed guidance on music theory, check out resources such as the wikiHow article “How to Make Music,” which covers key concepts that can help you get started.
By learning just a little bit of music theory, you’ll be able to enhance the quality of your electronic music and make more informed creative decisions.
Understanding the Capabilities of Your Instrument or Software
Before diving into a serious music project, it’s essential to spend some time getting to know your instrument or software. Even if you’ve used it briefly before purchasing, dedicated exploration will help you unlock its full potential and spark creative ideas.
1. Experiment with Your Equipment
Take the time to experiment with all the features of your instrument or software. Familiarize yourself with different controls, settings, and options available. The more hands-on experience you gain, the easier it will be to use the equipment effectively when it matters most.
2. Discover New Ideas and Techniques
By exploring the full range of your equipment, you may discover new techniques or sound possibilities that you hadn’t initially considered. Experimenting can lead to creative breakthroughs and inspire new project ideas. It’s also a great opportunity to understand what your tools excel at and how to use them most efficiently.
Taking the time to understand your gear before starting a serious project will give you confidence in your creative process, making your work smoother and more enjoyable.
Familiarizing Yourself with Musical Genres
Each musical genre has unique characteristics and elements that define it. To understand and successfully compose in a specific genre, it’s important to familiarize yourself with these elements. One of the best ways to do this is by actively listening to songs within the genre you’re interested in.
1. Beats and Rhythms
Different genres use distinct beats and rhythms to define their sound. For example:
- Rap and Hip-Hop: Known for heavy, driving beats and rhythms that create a sense of urgency and energy.
- Big Band Jazz: Features bouncy, syncopated rhythms that emphasize swing.
- Country: Often incorporates a shuffle beat, giving it a laid-back yet rhythmic flow.
Listening to how different beats are structured in each genre will help you understand the rhythmic foundation of the style.
2. Instrumentation
Each genre has a signature set of instruments. For example:
- Jazz: Prominent use of brass (trumpet, trombone) and woodwind instruments (clarinet, saxophone).
- Heavy Metal: Dominated by loud electric guitars and powerful drum beats.
- Hawaiian Music: Known for the use of steel guitars, giving it a tropical vibe.
- Folk Music: Primarily features acoustic guitars, creating an organic, earthy sound.
- Mariachi: Characterized by the use of trumpets and guitars, adding to its vibrant and celebratory tone.
- Polka: Recognizable for the use of tuba and accordion, lending a unique, upbeat sound.
Genres often blend elements from different instruments, as seen with Bob Dylan’s use of electric guitar in folk music or mariachi trumpets in Johnny Cash’s “Ring of Fire.”
3. Song Structure
Song structures also vary widely by genre. For example:
- Pop/Rock Songs: Typically follow a structure of intro, verse, chorus, repeat verse, chorus, bridge, and outro.
- Trance Music: Often starts with an intro, followed by a melodic hook that builds up to a point where all elements come together, ending with a fading outro.
Understanding the typical structures within a genre will help you structure your compositions in a way that feels authentic to the genre’s style.
By immersing yourself in the sound, instrumentation, and structure of the genres you want to compose in, you’ll be better equipped to create music that resonates within those styles.
Part4 Producing Your Own Electronic Music
Lay Down the Beats First
The beats and rhythms form the foundation of your track and serve as the backbone for everything else in your composition. Establishing these elements early on gives your song structure and helps guide the other musical components.
1. Why Beats Are Crucial
Beats provide the framework for your track, creating the groove and energy that will drive the rest of the composition. Whether you’re creating an energetic dance track or a laid-back hip-hop groove, the rhythm section sets the tone and pace of the song.
2. Using Drum Sounds from Sample Packs
One of the easiest ways to build your beats is by using drum sounds from your sample packs. These pre-recorded drum sounds allow you to quickly experiment with different rhythms, textures, and styles, adding layers of complexity to your track. You can modify these samples to fit your song’s unique vibe, whether by adjusting the tempo, adding effects, or layering multiple sounds.
By starting with the beats, you set a solid foundation for the rest of the song, making it easier to build melodies, harmonies, and other musical elements around your rhythm section.
Add the Bass Rhythm
Once your beats are in place, the next crucial step is to add the bass rhythm. The bass, whether played on a bass guitar or using another low-pitched instrument, complements the drums and helps solidify the track’s groove.
1. Ensure Bass and Drums Work Together
Before adding any other instrumental sounds, make sure that the bass rhythm and the drum beat are in sync. The bass should work in harmony with the drums to reinforce the overall rhythm and energy of the song. Together, they form the rhythmic backbone, giving the track depth and drive.
Add Additional Rhythms, If Desired
Not all songs rely on a single rhythm. In many cases, you may want to incorporate additional rhythms to add complexity and intrigue to your track. These extra rhythms can help highlight key moments in the song or provide a dynamic shift to capture the listener’s attention.
1. Ensure Rhythms Work Together
When adding additional rhythms, be mindful that they should blend seamlessly with the main rhythm. The new rhythms should complement the primary beat, creating a cohesive sound that enhances the overall flow of the song. Whether it’s for a breakdown, a bridge, or a build-up, additional rhythms can be a powerful tool for shaping the mood and direction of your composition.
Layer in the Melody and Harmony
Once the rhythm section is solid, it’s time to layer in the melody and harmony. This step adds musical depth and emotional impact to your track.
1. Using VST Instruments
At this stage, your VST instruments are essential for adding melody and harmony. You can use the preset sounds provided by your VSTs or dive deeper by experimenting with their controls to create unique, custom sounds. By layering melodies and harmonies, you build a more dynamic, full-bodied composition that brings your track to life.
Mix the Sounds to the Levels You Want
Once all the elements of your track are in place, it’s time to mix the sounds to ensure they work together harmoniously.
1. Set a Reference Sound
Start by choosing one component of your track as the reference sound, typically the beat sound. This will serve as the foundation against which you adjust the levels of other components, ensuring everything balances properly.
2. Achieve a Richer Sound
If you’re aiming for a fatter (richer) sound rather than just a louder one, consider using multiple instruments for a given part or layering the same instrument multiple times. This technique is commonly used with vocal recordings, where background vocals or multiple takes of the lead vocals are combined to create a fuller sound. For example, Enya achieves her lush sound by layering multiple vocal tracks.
3. Introduce Variety
To keep the composition dynamic, you can introduce variety by using different instruments on different choruses of the song. This can help evoke different emotional responses from your listeners. Additionally, varying the register—changing the pitch at which the song is played—can keep the track lively and engaging.
4. Less is More at Times
Not every part of your track needs to be dense or layered with sound. Sometimes, particularly in the verses, you can strip back the arrangement by leaving out chordal harmonies and letting the beat, melody, and vocals carry the song. At the intro and outro, you might want to use only vocals to create a minimalistic, emotional effect.
Know What Your Audience Expects
When creating electronic music for an audience other than yourself, it’s important to consider their expectations.
1. Create an Engaging Intro
An effective intro is essential to grab your audience’s attention and entice them to listen to the rest of the song. Make sure it sets the tone for the track and captures their interest right from the start.
2. Stay True to Your Vision
While it’s important to keep your audience’s expectations in mind, don’t feel pressured to cater to every demand. If a grand production of the chorus doesn’t fit the vibe you want, stay true to your creative vision.
