You can record real singers and players, use a wide array of software instruments, utilize a large library of Apple Loops, and mix with an excellent palette of EQs, compressors, reverbs, delays, guitar amp and stomp box simulations, etc. Not to mention LPX’s fantastic and further updated Flex audio that allows you to change the tempos of recorded audio in real time.
This curriculum was built specifically with songwriters in mind, prioritizing functionality and practices essential to songwriters.
Special added service of this class: we record Jay's desktop and audio and make those materials available online optionally for no additional cost so that students can
- review materials from the previous week and all weeks
- make up class material in the event you must miss a class
- review long after class has concluded
Our ambition is to make Logic a go-to creative tool. From the forethought Jay puts into the curriculum to your access to reviewing the material, we believe this class is unique and unparalleled in the field for its value.
In Level 1, you will start with the basics of Logic Pro and over the course of the six classes delve deeper so that everyone in the class learns to create and record their own original material. Jay's patient and encouraging teaching style will make the class understandable for you if you have never used recording software before, and his creativity as a composer and teacher will keep the class engaging for you if you are new to Logic but are migrating from another platform like Pro Tools or Reason. Create beats, make use of the vast library of songs and loops, access the sounds of orchestras, scratch DJs, and rock bands with the click of a mouse--all in the service of realizing your vision and creating your music. By classes 5 and 6 we will learn the elements and principles of mixing and mastering audio to present finished versions of your songs. Each week the homework assignments allow you to put the concepts of class to work as you create your recordings.
SCROLL DOWN FOR MORE ABOUT LEVEL 2, DECIDING WHICH LEVEL IS RIGHT FOR YOU, ETC.
Materials for Level 1:
- Macintosh Intel computer running Logic Pro software, installed and licensed and updated (note: you must have LOGIC PRO installed and updated with content downloaded if you are bringing your own computer!). This is a lengthy and large download--get started!
- portable MIDI control surface/keyboard (instructor will let you know when you need to bring your keyboard--not required the first class meeting). Note: If you prefer not to purchase a MIDI keyboard, your laptop QWERTY keyboard can serve as one by pressing the CAPS LOCK.
- headphones/earbuds
- the instructor will make a supplementary text suggestion for class that may be his brand new text on Logic Pro! Class members will be notified as class start approaches, as this will address any updates to Logic, etc.
In Level 2, you will build upon those foundational skills and gain a professional repertoire of techniques and concepts, from programming and arranging to recording and mixing to mastering your final works. Special attention will be paid to Flex Audio, use of plug-ins, and the ins and outs of this versatile professional music creation software. Jay is interested in the individual ambitions of the members of the class and will use that to drive some of the particulars of the curriculum. Some sample topics will include but not be limited to
- Advanced automation and signal flow with auxes.
- Logic Pro X's amazing Flex Audio and Varispeed and the sophisticated updates and nuances to each that it brings
- Logic's amazing and little understood Sculpture string modeled synthesizer.
- Using Sidechain compression and Logic's Evoc Vocorder
- Logic Pro X's Amp Designer and Pedalboard.
- Track Importing
- Working with other songwriters who also use Logic.
- (opt.) Preparing simple parts for musicians with Logic's Score Editor
- more advanced mixing and mastering approaches
Each week your homework assignments will help you apply the functionality and principles in Logic to YOUR songs, and you will receive personal feedback from Jay on how you might further enhance or improve your recordings and mixes.
School Notes: For new students, there will be a $35 one-time registration fee, payable in person at the start of the class.