Progression Over 10 Weeks

Semester 1 – Foundations (Weeks 1–12)

Focus: DAW Basics, Arrangement, and First Short Track

Weeks 1–3

• Introduction to DAWs (Ableton, Logic)

• Interface, track types, navigation, basic workflow

• MIDI basics: instruments, quantization, editing notes

Weeks 4–5

• Building loops and beats

• Song structure: intro, verse, build-up, drop, breakdown

• Layering instruments/sounds effectively

Weeks 6–7

• Creative use of samples and loops

• Understanding tempo and groove

Weeks 8–10

• Practice: Create short sections (8–16 bars) for multiple song parts

• Intro to basic arrangement techniques

Weeks 11–12

• Semester project: Students create a short 1–2 minute track using loops and arrangement
  (Goal: A complete song sketch with basic structure.)

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Semester 2 – Recording & Editing (Weeks 13–24)

Focus: Recording Live Sounds and Advanced Arrangement

Weeks 13–14

• Microphone basics, placement, signal flow

• Recording vocals and instruments

Weeks 15–16

• Multi-track recording and overdubbing

• Editing audio: trimming, crossfades, timing corrections

Weeks 17–18

• Advanced arrangement: transitions, effects, automation

• Combining live recordings with MIDI/samples

Weeks 19–21

• Adding creative elements to arrangements

• Integrating different sound sources for a fuller mix

Weeks 22–24

• Mid-project check: refine and structure a 3-minute track with at least one live recording
  (Goal: A track with live and electronic elements, arranged from start to finish.)

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Semester 3 – Mixing & Mastering (Weeks 25–36)

Focus: Finalizing and Preparing Tracks for Release

Weeks 25–27

• Introduction to mixing: balancing levels, panning

• EQ, compression, reverb/delay basics

Weeks 28–29

• Genre-specific mixing techniques and creative effects

Weeks 30–32

• Mastering basics: enhancing loudness, tone balance

• Preparing for streaming platforms (file formats, metadata)

Weeks 33–34

• Advanced mastering tips

• Testing mixes on different playback systems

Weeks 35–36

• Final project presentation (playback session)

• Feedback, portfolio tips, and next steps
  (Goal: A fully mixed and mastered track ready for release.)