ABLETON 101
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FULL 8HR+ OFFLINE COURSE
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Software Interface
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Starting point
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Instruments
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Track arrangement
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Signal processing
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Sculpting frequencies
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Compression and dynamics
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Effects
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Levels and planning
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8 ASSIGNMENTS
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FEEDBACK SESSIONS
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30 DAYS TRIAL VERSION OF THE SOFTWARE
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PRIVATE CHAT WITH INSTRUCTOR
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MASTER MIND CHAT WITH OTHER STUDENTS
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PROJECT FILE AND SAMPLES USED
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LIST OF RECOMMENDED PLUG-INS
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100+ DRUM SAMPLE PACK
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100+ MIDI FILES (CHORDS, MELODIES, AND PLUCKS
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50% OFF ABLETON SOFTWARE UPON ENROLLMENT
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In-person class starts May 11th, 2026
What will you learn in 8-week course
Focus: Getting to know Ableton Live
- Overview of the Ableton interface (Session View vs. Arrangement View)
- Basic navigation (zooming, scrolling, using the toolbar)
- Introduction to audio and MIDI tracks
Activities:
- Tour of Ableton’s features
- Create a simple project: Load and play a loop
Project: Create a "Welcome Jam" using pre-loaded loops.
Week #1
Focus: Working with loops and samples
- How to find and use loops in the browser
- Importing and arranging loops in the Session View
- Adjusting loop settings (length, pitch, more..)
Activities:
- Experiment with different genres of loops (e.g., drums, bass, melodies)
- Grouping loops for different sections
Project: Create a 1-minute loop-based track using at least 3 different loops
Week #2
Focus: Arranging loops into a song structure
- Understanding song structure (Intro, Verse, Chorus, Outro)
- Basic arrangement techniques (copy, paste, duplicate)
- Adding variation and dynamics
Activities:
- Arrange loops into a full song structure
- Practice adding and removing sections to vary the song
Project: Create a 2-minute song using arranged loops with a clear structure.
Week #3
Focus: Mixing and effects
- Introduction to audio effects (reverb, delay, EQ)
- Basic mixing techniques (volume, panning)
- How to use send/return tracks for effects
Activities:
- Experiment with adding effects to loops
- Practice mixing levels for clarity
Project: Finalize the 2-minute song from Week 3 with added effects and a polished mix.
Week #4
Focus: Working with MIDI
- Introduction to MIDI clips and how to create them
- Overview of Ableton’s built-in instruments (e.g., Drum Rack, Analog, Operator)
Activities:
- Create a simple drum pattern using MIDI
- Experiment with different synth sounds
Project: Create a 1-minute MIDI-based track using at least two different instruments.
Week #5
Focus: Composing original melodies and harmonies
- Basic music theory (scales, chords)
- Writing catchy melodies and harmonies using MIDI
Activities:
- Compose a simple melody over a chord progression
- Experiment with counter melodies
Project: Create a 2-minute song that features both MIDI and audio loops, focusing on melody and harmony.
Week #6
Focus: Advanced arrangement techniques
- Building tension and release in a song
- Using silence and space effectively
Activities:
- Rearranging previously created songs to enhance dynamics.
- Explore different transition techniques (fills, risers, breaks).
Project: Revamp a previous project by applying advanced arrangement techniques.
Week #7
Focus: Finalizing tracks and preparing for sharing
- Exporting tracks (WAV, MP3)
- Tips on presenting music (feedback, performance)
Activities:
- Mix and master your final project for a polished sound.
- Prepare a short presentation of your song (talk about your creative process and choices).
Project: Complete a final song that showcases everything learned over the course.
Week #8