Beatmaking Essentials – Melodies

Lesson 1: Melodic Writing Fundamentals

Goal: Learn how to write melodies that are in key, harmonically complement the bassline, and enhance the overall track. Learning Expectations:

• Understand scales, modes, and how they influence melody creation.
• Use counterpoint to balance the melody with the bassline.
• Experiment with different rhythms and note lengths to create an engaging melody.

DAW-Specific Topics:

• Pro Tools: Use the MIDI Editor and Pencil Tool to create melodies in key.
• Ableton: Utilize the Scale MIDI Effect to stay in key and test melodic ideas.
• Logic Pro: Use the Scale Quantize feature and Smart Controls to shape melodies.

Lesson 2: MIDI vs. Sampling for Melodies

Goal: Explore the differences between using MIDI instruments and sampling to create melodies. Learning Expectations:

• Create original melodies using virtual instruments or synthesizers.
• Understand how to chop and repurpose melodic samples.
• Identify when to use MIDI or samples for specific production goals.

DAW-Specific Topics:

• Pro Tools: Use Structure Free for sampling and MIDI instrument layers.
• Ableton: Use Simpler to chop samples and draw MIDI patterns in Clip View.
• Logic Pro: Utilize Quick Sampler for sampling and the Arpeggiator for MIDI melodies.

Lesson 3: Sound Design and Sample Selection

Goal: Design or select sounds that enhance your melody and complement the bass and drum loop. Learning Expectations:

• Choose sounds that fit the mood and genre of the track.
• Modify presets and use synthesis to create unique melodic textures.
• Layer melodic sounds for richness and depth.

DAW-Specific Topics:

• Pro Tools: Use AIR Hybrid for sound design and layering.
• Ableton: Explore Analog and Wavetable for custom melodic tones.
• Logic Pro: Use Alchemy and ES2 for advanced sound design.

Lesson 4: Adding Chords and Pads to Support the Melody

Goal: Learn how to build and layer chords and pads to harmonically support the melody and create a fuller arrangement. Learning Expectations:

• Create chord progressions that complement the bassline and melody.
• Layer pads to add texture, warmth, and atmosphere to the track.
• Use voicing techniques to avoid clashing with the melody or bassline.

DAW-Specific Topics:

• Pro Tools: Use AIR Mini Grand or AIR Velvet for chords and pads.
• Ableton: Use Chord MIDI Effect to create progressions and layer pads with Tension.
• Logic Pro: Use Smart Chords and Retro Synth for warm, evolving pads.

Lesson 5: Resampling and Processing Melodies

Goal: Learn how to resample and process melodies to create unique textures and fit them into the mix. Learning Expectations:

• Bounce melodies to audio for further manipulation.
• Use effects like reverb, delay, and distortion to add depth and character.
• Apply pitch-shifting or time-stretching for creative sound design.

DAW-Specific Topics:

• Pro Tools: Use Elastic Audio and AudioSuite for resampling and processing.
• Ableton: Resample audio using Freeze and Flatten or external recording.
• Logic Pro: Use Bounce in Place and Flex Time for creative processing.

Lesson 6: Adding Variation with Automation and Chopping

Goal: Introduce movement and variation into melodies through automation or chopping techniques. Learning Expectations:

• Use automation to change parameters like pitch, filters, and effects over time.
• Chop melodies into smaller segments to rearrange or create new patterns.
• Incorporate dynamic changes to keep melodies interesting throughout the track.

DAW-Specific Topics:

• Pro Tools: Automate plugin parameters and MIDI note velocities.
• Ableton: Use Automation Envelopes and Slice to New MIDI Track for chopping.
• Logic Pro: Automate Smart Controls and utilize Region Automation for dynamic changes.

Course Wrap-Up:

Goal: Export a completed track featuring a bassline, drum loop, melody, chords, and pads arranged cohesively. Learning Expectations:

• Finalize the mix with balanced harmonic elements.
• Export the track as a high-quality audio file suitable for sharing or further production.

DAW-Specific Topics:

• Pro Tools: Use Bounce to Disk with optimal settings for final export.
• Ableton: Use Export Audio/Video for high-quality output.
• Logic Pro: Use Bounce function to render the track.

Outcome: By the end of the course, students will have developed the skills to add melodies, chords, pads, and variations to pre-made basslines and drum loops, creating richer and more dynamic tracks. This course can be paired with other beatmaking essentials for a complete production workflow.