For anyone looking to learn music production, choosing the right site can be overwhelming due to the sheer number of options. The best overall pick is Coursera’s Music Production Specialization, offering a comprehensive curriculum that covers everything from mixing to mastering. Point Blank Music School stands out for its hands-on courses with industry professionals, while Udemy provides affordable and flexible learning for beginners. The main challenge lies in balancing quality, depth, and cost—some platforms excel in one area but fall short in others. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown to find the site that best fits your learning style and goals.
Get audio and creator gear delivered free — and shop member deals
- Fast, free delivery on millions of items
- Access to Prime Big Deal Days deals on October 6–7
- Prime Video, Amazon Music and more included
Complete the kit
Key Takeaways
- Top-ranked sites combine structured curricula with practical exercises, making learning more effective.
- Price and access to industry professionals vary widely, influencing overall value.
- Beginner-friendly platforms often sacrifice depth for simplicity, while advanced sites offer more comprehensive content.
- User reviews and course update frequency are strong indicators of a platform’s current relevance.
- Many top platforms include community features, which can accelerate learning through peer support.
| sites to learn music production | Format |
|---|---|
| The Beginner’s Guide to Comput | Book |
| Audio Engineering 101: A Begin | Book |
| Music Production for Beginners | Book |
| Music Production For Beginners | Paperback |
| FL Studio Music Production for | Book |
| Music Production For Beginners | Book |
| Beginner’s Guide to Music Prod | Book |
| Music Production For Beginners | Book with bonus video lessons |
| Music Production For Beginners | Book |
| Music Production Masterclass: | 2 Book Bundle |
| The Music Producer’s Ultimate | Book |
| Music Production | Book |
More Details on Our Top Picks
The Beginner’s Guide to Computer-Based Music Production
This book stands out for its focused approach to introducing complete novices to the fundamentals of producing music on a computer. Unlike more comprehensive guides like Audio Engineering 101, which covers broader technical concepts, this guide zeroes in on the initial steps of home recording, making it ideal for those new to digital tools and music theory. The absence of detailed content makes it less suitable for learners seeking in-depth software tutorials or advanced techniques. Its simplicity helps newcomers build confidence, but it may leave more advanced students wanting more technical detail.
Pros:- Designed specifically for absolute beginners, making complex concepts approachable
- Focuses on core computer-based music production fundamentals
- Provides a gentle introduction to home recording setups
Cons:- Lacks detailed content or advanced topics for further growth
- No information on specific software or practical exercises
Best for: Complete beginners with little to no prior knowledge seeking an accessible starting point
Not ideal for: Intermediate or advanced producers looking for detailed software tutorials or mixing techniques
- Format:Book
Our verdict“A solid starting point for absolute beginners who need a straightforward introduction to computer-based music production.”
Audio Engineering 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Music Production
This guide provides a well-rounded introduction to audio engineering and music production, covering essential concepts like signal flow, recording, and mixing. Compared with The Beginner’s Guide to Computer-Based Music Production, which is more software-focused, Audio Engineering 101 offers a more technical perspective that benefits those interested in understanding the underlying principles of sound. However, for seasoned users or those seeking software-specific workflows, it may feel too basic or theoretical. Its broad scope makes it ideal for beginners aiming to grasp the technical backbone of music production.
Pros:- Provides a clear, beginner-friendly overview of audio engineering fundamentals
- Covers essential concepts needed for recording and mixing
- Serves as a strong foundation for further technical learning
Cons:- May be too basic for those with prior knowledge or experience
- Limited focus on specific production software or modern workflows
Best for: Newcomers wanting a foundational understanding of audio engineering principles
Not ideal for: Experienced producers seeking advanced mixing techniques or software-specific guidance
- Format:Book
Our verdict“Ideal for beginners seeking a broad technical grounding in audio engineering and music production basics.”
Music Production for Beginners, 2024+ Edition: Music Business, EDM, Songwriting, and Producing Music (Book 1)
This edition excels by integrating current industry trends with a wide-ranging overview of music production, including EDM, songwriting, and the music business. Unlike Music Production for Beginners 2020 Edition, which may lack the latest industry insights, the 2024+ edition offers updated content relevant to today’s digital landscape. Its breadth benefits newcomers interested in multiple facets of music creation but may lack depth in specific areas, making it less suitable for those seeking detailed technical tutorials or software guides. It’s a comprehensive starting point for those looking to understand the modern music scene.
Pros:- Covers a broad spectrum: music business, EDM, songwriting, producing
- Updated for 2024, reflecting current trends and tools
- Provides a holistic view suitable for beginners exploring multiple areas
Cons:- Lacks detailed explanations or technical depth in specific topics
- Content verification is limited, which may concern learners needing thorough guidance
Best for: Beginners interested in current industry trends, EDM, and the music business
Not ideal for: Producers seeking in-depth technical or software-specific training
- Edition:2024+
- Series:Book 1
- Format:Book
Our verdict“A good choice for beginners wanting a contemporary, broad overview of music production and industry essentials.”
Music Production For Beginners 2020 Edition: How to Produce Music, The Easy to Read Guide for Music Producers
This guide emphasizes clarity and ease of understanding, making it suitable for complete novices. Unlike the more detailed or software-focused FL Studio Music Production for Beginners, this edition offers straightforward explanations of fundamental concepts. Its simplicity is an advantage for newcomers but becomes a drawback for those wanting the latest techniques or updates on recent software versions. The 2020 edition may also lack coverage of newer tools or industry developments that emerged after its publication, limiting its relevance for ongoing learning.
Pros:- Written in an easy-to-read style, ideal for absolute beginners
- Focuses on core music production fundamentals
- Provides a gentle introduction without overwhelming detail
Cons:- No detailed content or updated material beyond 2020
- May not cover the latest software or industry trends
Best for: Beginners who need simple, easy-to-understand instructions without technical overload
Not ideal for: Producers seeking current software features or advanced production techniques
- Edition:2020
- Format:Paperback
Our verdict“A suitable starting point for absolute beginners who prefer simple, clear guidance over detailed technical content.”
FL Studio Music Production for Beginners: Step-by-Step Guide to Making Beats, Melodies, and Full Songs
This guide makes the most sense for beginners committed to learning FL Studio, offering detailed workflows for creating beats, melodies, and complete songs. Compared with general guides like Music Production For Beginners 2020 Edition, which covers broader concepts, this book dives into specific software with practical, step-by-step instructions tailored for FL Studio users. Its focus on a single DAW makes it less useful for those interested in exploring other software options or wanting a more general overview. The lack of detailed content description means the depth of instruction may vary, but it remains a highly targeted resource for FL Studio learners.
Pros:- Tailored specifically to FL Studio, providing clear workflows
- Covers the complete process from beats to full songs
- Designed specifically for beginners, with step-by-step guidance
Cons:- Limited to FL Studio; not applicable to other DAWs
- No detailed content or review content available for deeper insight
Best for: Beginners dedicated to mastering FL Studio for beatmaking and song creation
Not ideal for: Producers looking for a broad overview of multiple DAWs or general music production techniques
- Format:Book
- Topic:FL Studio / Digital Music Production
- Skill Level:Beginner
Our verdict“Perfect for beginners focused on learning FL Studio through practical, structured instructions.”
Music Production For Beginners 2022+ Edition: How to Produce Music, The Easy to Read Guide for Music Producers & Songwriters
This book stands out for its approachable, easy-to-read format that covers a wide range of fundamental topics, including music business, EDM, and songwriting. Compared to other beginner guides like Beginner’s Guide to Music Production, it offers a more structured breakdown of multiple aspects of music creation, which helps newcomers grasp the full scope of producing music. Its clarity makes it ideal for those who feel overwhelmed by technical jargon, but the lack of detailed depth might leave more advanced beginners seeking further resources. The inclusion of diverse topics ensures a well-rounded start, yet it might risk superficial coverage for learners wanting in-depth technical skills.
Pros:- Easy-to-read format that simplifies complex concepts
- Covers multiple key areas: music business, EDM, songwriting
- Suitable for those new to music production with no prior experience
Cons:- Lacks detailed technical guidance or step-by-step exercises
- No information on the depth of content, which may limit advanced learners
Best for: Complete beginners who want an accessible, broad overview of music production and related topics
Not ideal for: Readers seeking detailed technical tutorials or hands-on software training, since the book focuses on concepts rather than practical step-by-step instructions
- Format:Book
- Edition:2022+ Edition
- Target Audience:Beginners
Our verdict“This guide is best for absolute beginners who want a comprehensive overview without technical complexity.”
Beginner’s Guide to Music Production
This guide is designed for newcomers who need a straightforward introduction to core production concepts. Unlike the more expansive Music Production For Beginners 2022+ Edition, it aims to distill essential skills into a concise format, making it suitable for absolute beginners. Its simplicity, however, might be a drawback for learners eager for broader context or more advanced techniques. Without detailed content information, it’s unclear how much depth it offers, but its focus on fundamentals makes it a gentle starting point for those just getting their feet wet in music production.
Pros:- Clear, beginner-friendly writing style
- Focuses on core concepts to build foundational knowledge
- Ideal for those starting from zero without prior experience
Cons:- Limited information on content depth or coverage
- May be too basic for learners with some prior music background
Best for: Complete beginners with no prior knowledge looking for a quick, simple introduction
Not ideal for: Intermediate or advanced students seeking comprehensive technical training or industry insights, as the content may be too basic
- Format:Book
Our verdict“This book makes the most sense for absolute beginners who need a simple, no-frills introduction to music production basics.”
Music Production For Beginners: The Easy to Read Guide for Music Producers, Artists & Songwriters (The Modern Musician Series)
This guide excels for musicians who want to learn production alongside songwriting and artist perspectives, which sets it apart from more technical guides like Music Production For Beginners 2020 Edition. The inclusion of bonus video lessons enhances its value for visual and auditory learners, making complex concepts more accessible. While it offers a broader view of music creation tailored to artists, this broader scope might mean less focus on in-depth technical skills, making it less suitable for those seeking detailed production tutorials. Its structured series helps learners progress systematically, but the basic level might not satisfy more experienced beginners looking for advanced insights.
Pros:- Includes bonus video lessons for visual learning
- Covers production, songwriting, and artist perspectives
- Part of a structured series that aids progressive learning
Cons:- May be too basic for experienced producers
- Limited focus on technical production details
Best for: Aspiring artists and songwriters new to production who want a holistic understanding with multimedia support
Not ideal for: Producers seeking advanced technical skills or in-depth mixing and mastering tutorials, since the content leans more toward beginner-level concepts
- Series:The Modern Musician Series
- Format:Book with bonus video lessons
- Audience:Beginners, producers, artists, songwriters
Our verdict“This guide is ideal for artist-focused beginners who appreciate multimedia learning and a holistic approach to music creation.”
Music Production For Beginners 2020 Edition: How to Produce Music, The Easy to Read Guide for Music Producers
Compared to the 2022+ edition, this guide focuses on foundational music production skills with an emphasis on EDM and music business basics. Its straightforward, easy-to-read format makes it appealing for those new to the scene, but the lack of detailed content information makes it hard to gauge its depth. For learners interested in EDM production or the business side, it offers relevant topics, yet more advanced students or those wanting comprehensive technical training may find it insufficient. Its simplicity is a plus for absolute beginners, but it might not satisfy learners seeking a deeper technical dive.
Pros:- Easy-to-read format suitable for beginners
- Includes music business topics relevant to new producers
- Focuses on accessible entry into EDM production
Cons:- No information on content depth or exercises
- Limited to EDM and business topics, less broad in scope
Best for: Beginners interested specifically in EDM production and music industry basics
Not ideal for: Experienced producers or learners seeking detailed technical tutorials or broader genre coverage beyond EDM
- Format:Book
- Edition:2020 Edition
- ASIN:1654985791
Our verdict“This edition makes sense for newcomers keen on EDM and music business fundamentals, but may be too narrow for those wanting wide-ranging production skills.”
Music Production Masterclass: 2 Book Bundle – Producing, Studio Recording, Mixing, Mastering and Songwriting
This bundle offers an extensive overview of the entire music production process, from initial production and studio recording to mixing, mastering, and songwriting. Compared with single-volume guides like the Beginner’s Guide to Music Production, this two-book set covers a broader range of topics and provides a more comprehensive foundation. However, the sheer scope might be overwhelming for absolute beginners who prefer a gradual learning curve, and the lack of detailed content descriptions makes it unclear how deep each topic goes. It’s well-suited for those who want a one-stop resource, but beginners should be prepared for a potentially dense introduction.
Pros:- Covers full music production workflow from start to finish
- Two-book bundle offers excellent value and depth
- Includes both technical and creative aspects of production
Cons:- Lack of detailed content descriptions makes depth unclear
- Potentially overwhelming for complete beginners seeking focused tutorials
Best for: Aspiring producers seeking a comprehensive, all-in-one guide to start and improve their entire production workflow
Not ideal for: Beginners who prefer incremental learning or detailed step-by-step tutorials on specific software or techniques, as the broad scope may feel intimidating
- Format:2 Book Bundle
- Topics:Producing, Studio Recording, Mixing, Mastering, Songwriting
- ASIN:B0H34NL7MC
Our verdict“This bundle is perfect for learners ready to explore all facets of music production at once, but beginners should be prepared for a broad and dense introduction.”
The Music Producer’s Ultimate Guide to FL Studio 20: Create Production-Quality Music with FL Studio
This book stands out for its targeted focus on FL Studio 20, making it an essential resource for producers who want to master this specific software. Unlike broader guides like Music Production (ASIN 1138626104), it offers step-by-step techniques tailored to FL Studio’s interface and workflows, helping users produce professional-quality tracks. Its strength lies in translating software features into real-world music production outcomes, but its narrow scope means it may not be suitable for those interested in other DAWs or comprehensive music theory. While it provides practical insights, there’s limited information on the depth of content, which could be a drawback for advanced users seeking more detailed technical guidance.
Pros:- Highly focused on FL Studio 20, ensuring relevant and actionable advice
- Helps produce professional-quality music with clear techniques
- Serves as a practical step-by-step guide for intermediate users
Cons:- Lacks detailed content assessment, making it hard to gauge depth
- Limited to FL Studio 20, not suitable for users of other DAWs
Best for: FL Studio 20 users who want a focused, hands-on resource to elevate their production skills quickly.
Not ideal for: Beginners seeking a broad overview of music production or those using different DAWs like Ableton Live or Logic Pro.
- Format:Book
- Software Covered:FL Studio 20
- Pages:Not specified
- Author:Not specified
- Language:English
- Publication Year:Not specified
Our verdict“This guide makes the most sense for FL Studio 20 users who want a focused, task-oriented resource to improve their craft.”
Music Production
This book offers a broad overview of music production, but it suffers from a lack of detailed content or specific guidance, unlike the more focused Ultimate Guide to FL Studio 20. Its general nature makes it suitable for beginners seeking an introduction, but it doesn’t provide the in-depth techniques or software-specific tips that intermediate or advanced learners might need. The absence of detailed descriptions and the minimal available information about its scope limit its usefulness for serious learners aiming to develop a comprehensive skill set. Compared with more targeted resources, it might serve as a starting point, but it won’t replace dedicated tutorials or courses.
Pros:- Provides a general overview suitable for absolute beginners
- Accessible language and straightforward explanations
- Potentially useful as a first step into music production
Cons:- Insufficient detail to support advanced skill development
- Lack of specific guidance or technical depth
- Limited information available about content scope
Best for: Beginners who want an introductory overview of music production concepts without focusing on a specific software.
Not ideal for: Producers looking for detailed, software-specific tutorials or advanced production techniques.
- Format:Book
- ISBN/ASIN:1138626104
- Pages:Not specified
- Author:Not specified
- Language:English
- Publication Year:Not specified
Our verdict“This book is best suited for complete beginners who need a broad introduction before moving on to more detailed resources.”
How We Picked
Our evaluation focused on the comprehensiveness of course content, ease of use, reputation among industry professionals, and accessibility for different skill levels. We prioritized platforms that balance practical skills with theoretical knowledge, ensuring learners can produce music confidently. Price, user feedback, and the availability of interactive elements or support also influenced the rankings. This approach ensures the selected sites cater to both beginners and more experienced producers seeking to deepen their craft.Factors to Consider When Choosing Sites To Learn Music Production
Choosing the right site to learn music production depends on several key factors. Beyond course content, consider how much support you need, your budget, and your preferred learning style. A good platform should also stay current with industry trends and provide opportunities for hands-on practice. Being aware of common pitfalls—like overly generic instruction or outdated material—can help you avoid wasting time and money. The following factors will help you make an informed decision:Course Content and Depth
Look for platforms that offer a well-rounded curriculum covering both technical skills and creative techniques. Beginners should prioritize introductory courses that build foundational knowledge, while advanced learners may seek specialized modules such as mixing or sound design. Depth matters because superficial courses won’t prepare you for real-world production challenges, so verify that the platform updates its content regularly to include the latest industry standards.
Instructor Expertise and Industry Connections
Platforms featuring instructors with professional experience or industry recognition tend to deliver higher quality education. Some sites also offer mentorship or live Q&A sessions, which can accelerate learning. Beware of courses with unverified instructors or those that lack credible credentials, as they might not provide reliable or current information.
Cost and Value
Pricing varies widely—from free resources to premium subscriptions—so consider your budget carefully. Cheaper courses may lack depth or support, while more expensive options often include personalized feedback or exclusive content. Evaluate whether the platform offers a free trial or sample lessons to test its suitability before committing financially.
Learning Format and Interactivity
Interactive courses with practical exercises, project-based assignments, and community features tend to be more engaging and effective. Video tutorials, downloadable resources, and quizzes can reinforce learning, but ensure that the platform also provides opportunities for hands-on practice, such as project submissions or software tutorials.
Community and Support
Access to a community of learners or direct instructor support can significantly enhance your progress. Forums, live sessions, and peer feedback help you stay motivated and troubleshoot issues. However, some platforms lack active community features, which might slow down your growth if you’re a self-directed learner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I learn music production entirely online?
Yes, many platforms offer comprehensive courses that cover all essential aspects of music production, making it possible to learn entirely online. While online courses provide flexibility and a wide range of resources, success depends on your dedication and practice. Supplementing lessons with free tutorials, forums, and software practice can help reinforce your skills, making online learning a viable alternative to traditional in-person classes.
Are free sites sufficient for learning music production?
Free sites can be a good starting point, especially for understanding basic concepts, but they often lack depth and structured progression. They may also lack personalized feedback or industry insights. For serious learners aiming to develop professional skills, investing in paid courses or platforms with curated content, instructor support, and project-based learning is usually more effective and time-efficient.
What should I look for in a course if I want to produce electronic music?
If your focus is electronic music, seek courses that cover digital audio workstations (DAWs) like Ableton Live, FL Studio, or Logic Pro, along with sound design, synthesis, and beat making. Courses with specific modules tailored to electronic genres tend to provide more relevant techniques and production tips. Additionally, look for tutorials that include sample packs and presets to experiment with sounds typical of electronic music styles.
How important are industry connections or mentorship in learning music production?
Industry connections and mentorship can significantly accelerate your learning curve by providing insider knowledge and feedback from experienced producers. Platforms that facilitate live Q&A sessions, mentorship programs, or active communities often offer valuable networking opportunities. However, even without direct mentorship, consistent practice and community engagement can lead to substantial growth in your skills.
Should I choose a platform based on the software it teaches?
Yes, selecting a platform that specializes in your preferred DAW or software is beneficial because it allows you to focus on mastering tools used in your style of music production. Some platforms offer courses dedicated to Ableton Live, FL Studio, Logic Pro, or Pro Tools, giving you in-depth knowledge of features and workflows. However, learning multiple DAWs can be advantageous in the long run, so consider starting with one but remaining open to exploring others later.
Conclusion
For casual learners or those just starting out, free or low-cost beginner courses like those on Udemy or Coursera provide excellent value and flexibility. If you aim for a comprehensive, industry-ready education, investing in platforms with structured curricula and expert instructors—such as Point Blank Music School—makes sense. Producers seeking a premium, in-depth experience should consider specialized courses or mentorship programs. In the end, your choice depends on your budget, skill level, and specific goals—whether you want quick results or a deep mastery of music production techniques.
Fall Picks
fall essentials
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
