How to start making music (beginner’s guide)

Making your first track is more approachable than it looks. Here is the path.

A video walkthrough for this guide is coming soon.

1. Choose a DAW. Pick your music software and install it (many have free trials).
2. Learn the piano roll and sequencer. These are where you place notes and drums.
3. Start with a simple beat. Lay down kick, snare and hats in a short loop.
4. Add a bassline and chords. Build a simple progression under the beat.
5. Arrange a loop into a track. Repeat and vary sections to form intro, verse and chorus.
6. Mix roughly and export. Balance levels, then export an MP3 to share.