Week 1: Explore essential studio theory, maintenance, and workflow.

This week provides a foundational understanding of the recording environment, from simple setups to complex systems with mixers, effects processors, and recording software. Learn about signal flow and the crucial interconnection of audio devices. We’ll also explore the differences between professional and home studios, delve into various studio industry roles, and discuss the chain of command within a recording environment.

Week 2: Basic Studio Devices and Equipment

Dive into the world of microphones, effects processors, and reverbs. This hands-on week focuses on understanding when and how to use different types of studio equipment. We’ll also examine near-field monitors and their importance in creating an optimal listening environment.

Week 3: Understanding Devices – Part II

Trace the journey of sound through a console and various processing gear. Learn about mixing boards, mic preamps, EQs, aux sends, patch bays, compressors, and reverbs, and discover how to apply them effectively in music production.

Week 4: Music Production Overview

Analyze and critique modern recorded music. Explore the concept of the “mixing screen” and learn how to strategically position different elements within a mix, including drums, vocals, guitars, keyboards, and effects.

Week 5: Micing Techniques – Part 1

Master the art of microphone selection and placement. This week covers various micing techniques for drums, electric instruments, acoustic instruments, and vocals.

Week 6: Micing Techniques – Part 2 & Basic Tracking – Part 1

Building on Week 5, we’ll delve deeper into drum micing and explore techniques for capturing exceptional drum sounds. Learn to manage room acoustics and address potential challenges in different recording spaces.

Week 7: Basic Tracking – Part 2

Understand the recording chain and achieve optimal signal levels. This week focuses on tracking bass guitar, guitar, keyboards, and vocals. We’ll also discuss the role of the producer and how to approach recording with a musical ear.

Week 8: It’s the Ear and Not the Gear

Develop critical listening skills by analyzing recorded tracks and understanding the interplay between instruments. Begin mixing in the “music screen” and learn to make informed decisions about the tonal quality of the music.

Week 9: Introduction to Hard Disk Recording

Explore the differences between hard disk recording and analog recording, considering the practicalities of each in today’s evolving music industry. We’ll examine various hard disk recording programs, with a focus on Steinberg Cubase SX. Learn the fundamentals of this platform and discover why, how, and when to use it.

Week 10: Basic Mixing – Part 1

This two-part class covers track allocation, naming conventions, basic sampling and looping techniques, and essential metering. We’ll also explore reverbs, effects, compression, aux sends, groupings, busses, and channel fundamentals.

Week 11: Basic Mixing – Part 2

Continue your mixing journey with hands-on practice. Set up mixes and prepare audio files for the mastering process.

Week 12: Basic Mastering

Gain a practical understanding of mastering techniques. Prepare mixed two-track sessions for mastering and learn how to finalize your music. This week culminates in the creation of a mastered CD.