THE PROGRAM 

WEEK 1

FUNDAMENTALS OF COMPOSITION

To kick things off, we'll learn how to establish a firm foundation with our musical ideas. Week 1 will focus entirely on the fundamentals of composing, including:

• Melody writing and development
• Chord progressions and harmonic language
• Form and structure for a cohesive piece of music

By the end of week 1, you’ll have a complete piece of music ready for arranging!

WEEK 2

INTRO TO ORCHESTRATION & ARRANGEMENT

It's time to dive into the world of orchestration! Among many other topics, this week will explore:

• How each instrument and section functions, both in solo and ensemble contexts 
• Common/uncommon doubling combinations for unique textures and emotional results 
• Why many arrangements sound muddy and static, and how to create clarity instead

This material will enable you to choose the right instrumentation for your piece, and convey the appropriate musical message you're aiming for.

WEEK 3

WRITING IN THE STYLE OF FILM & VIDEO GAMES

Now that we've covered the fundamentals of composing and orchestration, it's time to apply them to specific styles and genres! We'll cover:

• How to write and arrange in common styles, including action, romance, adventure, and underscore 
• How to evoke desired colours and emotions through instrument selection and layering  
• Examples of our own personal projects for real-life examples

With these fundamentals in place, you'll know how to write and arrange in any particular style you're aiming for. 

WEEK 4

INTRO TO SAMPLE LIBRARIES & DAW WORKFLOW 

Now that we understand the basics of orchestration and instrumentation, it's time to explore the world of DAWs and sample libraries! Week 4 will break down:

• Which sample libraries are the best for you and your music
• How to use your tools quickly and efficiently, so you'll never be overwhelmed by the tech and can focus on creating
• Our essential DAW workflows so you can create with ease and confidence

By the end of week 4, you'll know exactly what sample libraries to use for your music, as well as how to use them in your DAW of choice.

WEEK 5

ADVANCED VIRTUAL ORCHESTRATION TECHNIQUES

Now that we've uncovered the world of DAWs and sample libraries, it's time to put our virtual instruments to use. You'll learn exactly how to:

• Create realistic-sounding mockups without worrying about realism itself
• Use modulation, volume, and expression effectively for natural and musical results
• Create an arrangement that tells a story, and takes your listener on a satisfying journey  

After week 5, your mockup will be complete and ready for mixing!

WEEK 6

MIXING & MASTERING

It's time to polish up our track to a professional level through mixing & mastering! We'll discuss:

• A simple & repeatable mixing & mastering workflow you can use immediately
• How to create cohesion, balance, and warmth in your mixes
• Essential reverb and mic placement techniques for a consistent and realistic sound

By the end of this week, you'll have a fully completed piece of music in your hands that's ready to be published!

WEEK 7

LAUNCH PARTY & TRACK RELEASE

We've made it! This week is all about finalizing our tracks, sharing them with the world, and celebrating together!

• Personalized feedback on your music to wrap up your track for good
• Next steps to take your learning and career even further
• A custom certificate to mark your progress and completion of the program!

This is where we can truly celebrate one another, cheer on each other's success, and walk away with a piece of music (or two) that you can be proud to share with the world.