• The seminar is a 5 week overview of the art, process and business of modern music production
• Students will enjoy challenging real-world assignments producing tracks and learning the real word technics of the successful producer
• Student will interact and critique each other in a positive environment where everyone is there to learn and improve
• Requirements include a basic knowledge of music, a DAW (Protools, Digital audio workstation i.e. Digital Performer, Logic etc) and basic sounds to create arrangement ideas
• A basic sample library will be given to students to use on their cues if needed.
• Students will be taught by real world working producers with major credits
• The goal is to give the student a real world perspective and prepare them for making money as a music producer
• Finally the student will be given knowledge the many avenues to create passive income and find work in this vast industry

The Art and Business of Music Production will be taught by Emmy-nominated, veteran composer Michael Whittaker and Award winning producer Akil Thompson at Velvet Cinema Studios in Nashville, Tennessee. Sessions are 6-9pm for 5 consecutive weeks beginning April 11, 2016. Class size is limited to 15, so it is important that you register early to guarantee your enrollment. Cost is $550 via PayPal or check.

SPECIAL GUESTS
* Michael Omartian
* Danny Duncan
* Paul Salveson

 PREREQUISITES
* Basic Music Understanding
* DAW (like Logic, Pro Tools, Digital Performer) to do homework
* Basic sound set to create musical cues for homework assignments - an "amazing" setup is not required
* Attend 4 out of 5 classes

Week One: The Art of Arrangement
This class will deeply dive into the mind and skillset of the modern producer as it pertains to arranging. Elements such as harmony, melody, rhythm, tempo will be discussed. Also working and creating arrangements with creative and solid dynamics, density, instrumentation will be analyzed. All the elements a producer should be mindful of from musician selection to the arc of the arrangement will be discussed. Alternative harmony and creative ideas with regard to genre and style will also be taught.  Student will have a take home assignment.

Week Two: Programming 
The student will gain insight into modern plugins, synthesizers, drum loops, and sound design. Basic synthesis methods will be discussed from additive to granular synthesis, including an overview of some of the most popular synthesizers for popular music in different genres. Also drum programming as well as modern remix effects and tricks will be demonstrated. Student will have take home synthesis assignment. 

Week Three: Tracking/working with a live band
In week three, students will get in the headspace of how to successfully bring out the best in their musicians. Elements such as achieving different styles, textures and creative arrangement will be discussed and interpreted with a live band.

Week Four: Tones and Vocal Production
The modern producer should have a good working knowledge of the possibilities of what every instrument is capable of. A master engineer will discuss getting a great tone as well as discovering effective recording techniques. Understanding Vocals and vocal tuning, comping and arranging will be discussed as well as working with a singer to bring out their best.

Week Five: Mixing
A creative mix and solid mix is so important. Elements such as EQ, compression and reverberation will be discussed as well as the use of busses and modern plug ins. A master mix engineer will break down a popular mix and discuss how to achieve a radio ready mix.