There are many people who want to enter the field of music production, but they forget the fact that for becoming a music producer, one needs to an interest as well as a basic knowledge of music. Only those individuals who are interested in music or sound production, can make it as a music producer. Music producers are music professionals who are responsible for working on the mixing and sound consoles, and assisting musicians in songwriting and carrying out the studio recording procedure. They are responsible for ensuring that musicians are using their talent to the full potential and giving their best in the recording process. Below are some tips on being a music producer.
Guidelines for Becoming a Music Producer
As mentioned above, the principal prerequisite for becoming a music producer is to have an excellent ear for music and sound. Most of today's music producers are well-known musicians. It is recommended to learn and master any widely-used musical instrument such as a guitar or a piano. You may also attend formal music trainings for this purpose. You may also try to familiarize yourself with other instruments such as the bass guitar, drums and percussion, mandolin, etc. However, you don't need to be perfect in playing all the musical instruments.
Try to gain common musical knowledge, as it would certainly help you in music-related problem solving. Research on music theory and composition, which would enable you in determining errors if the music does not sound right. It is a good idea to gather an understanding of songwriting and lyric writing. Listen to all types and genres of music, and try to determine different musical instruments played. Also pay heed to the sound mixing techniques. This may be of great help when working with sound engineers to improve the sound quality of the music composed.
Try to obtain knowledge about the actual recording process. There are various sound recording and mixing software available which you can use to get the basic idea of how sound recording and mixing is done. The basic education needed for a music producer may be offered at several colleges. You may learn audio engineering from a reputed institute or a certified training school. There are some universities which offer majors in music production and audio engineering. These courses generally include technical know-how relating to sound equipment, mixing consoles, monitors, main speakers, microphones, pre-amplifiers, digital effects, etc. You would also be trained on how to work on sound-related software.
Once you have the necessary skills and technical know-how, it's time to jump into the music industry. Experience certainly plays a very important role in this sector. Start searching for trainee jobs in recording studios or production firms. Such jobs generally have a low income, but they help accumulate the needed experience. You may have to work for extended hours and even on weekends. Initially, you may be offered jobs of office assistants in the recording facility. You may also be handed the responsibility of arranging sound equipment for musicians.
After you have adequate experience, start searching for a band who is looking for a music producer. Attend musical concerts and try to get information on such bands. After finding a band, offer to produce an album at a discounted rate, as you are new to the music production field. Guide the band to produce good music, and continue with your job. When you are experienced enough, try your hand on starting your own recording studio. Get hold of the necessary equipment, and start a studio at home or at a rented space. Rent it out to musicians and make good contacts with bands. Doing so, should help you in networking with various bands and musicians, which in turn, will have a positive effect on your music business and music production career.
These are some tips that will guide you in becoming a music producer. Just remember that a strong liking for music and good networking with music professionals, are two of the most important things for fulfilling your dream to be a music producer.
By Stephen Rampur
