Have you ever wondered how techno music is created? Surprisingly, the tools involved are not necessarily expensive drum machines, synthesizers and recording studio software. Follow this easy guide to learn how to make your own techno music with just a few simple computer programs that won’t cost you too much.
Step 1 – Compose the Song in Your Head
Imagine in your head how you want it to sound. This goes for creating music of any type. Do you have a specific melody in mind? Or a certain beat? Try to capture these with a tape recorder or phone as a reference point. Since techno is a very rhythmic style of music, you might not need to come up with very much of a melody, but you should have a clear idea of what you want to create.
Step 2- Create the MIDI
How To Make Techno
Computer-driven compositions use a system called MIDI sequencing. Think of a MIDI as sheet music the computer can read and fire off imaginary instruments at the correct moments. You can use programs like CakeWalk to hook up a MIDI keyboard and play the notes on an actual keyboard. If you prefer to create the music on in a sheet music type format, you can use Noteworthy Composer to create sheet music like staffs with all the notes you want.
Most techno songs start with a simple “4 to the floor” bass beat and adds more elements as the song progresses. Don’t worry to much about how the MIDI sounds, most sound cards have a cheap ‘keyboard’ sound for their MIDI sequencer, but you’ll replace this with better sounding instruments in the next step.
Step 3 – Assign Virtual Instruments
Import your MIDI into a program like Cubase LE or FL Studio. You can also perform Step 2 in these programs as well but the interface is not as nice. Here we reach the fun part! These programs come with virtual instruments – or VSTs – which you can assign to each of the parts of your song. Virtual Instruments include drum machines, synthesizers and bass note players. Take time to adjust the settings of the VSTs you are using to get a sound you like. You can also get a variety of free VSTs on the internet for a greater variety in sound.
Step 4 –Record Samples or Vocals
If your song has words or you plan to incorporate samples, you can use Cubase or FL Studio to record the vocals while your MIDI tracks play in the background. Take time to select samples that fit well with your music. Don’t be afraid to go back to previous steps if things aren’t working out with the vocals.
Step 5 – Add the Finishing Touches
Once you have all the tracks in the program, you can add special effects. This might include delay effects which produce echoing sounds, distortion, chorus, flange, and other sound altering special effects that add to the overall sound of your song.
Creating techno music is fun and very easy once you learn your way around the virtual instrument world. Take some time to learn how to compose online and you’ll be creating your own techno like a professional.
Related posts: