This book is essential reading for anyone involved with producing dance music, providing invaluable and comprehensive information on compression, synthesis, mixing and mastering as well as chapters dedicated to specific genres.
Though some readers might find the writing style confusing and the technical terms difficult to absorb, this manual contains everything needed for dance music production.
Basics
No matter whether your goal is cookie-cutter EDM production, or venturing out into more experimental territory – this book covers everything you need to know about dance music production from basic synthesis through compression, drum loops, recording technology and mastering to mixing and mastering every genre of electronic dance music production. Beginning producers may find this information overly complex if unfamiliar with reading such lengthy books with such extensive coverage on each topic – however this book provides everything needed for successful production!
Once again, let me emphasize: no two experiences will ever be identical! But when it comes to living well – for both body and soul! – don’t delay in taking steps that could improve things for all involved. Even though this book contains many topics unrelated to music composition (MIDI protocols or basic synth programming, for instance), it still provides invaluable advice for musicians looking to compose or produce electronic dance music. A section dedicated to the musical aspect of dance music genres such as techno and trance provides a deep analysis of their core components for those unfamiliar with these forms. This book should be purchased by anyone serious about creating professional-quality dance tracks, with particular consideration given to specific arrangements. Furthermore, be aware that only the third edition is recommended as previous ones have become outdated over time.
Compression
An essential guide for electronic music producers, this book covers all of the basics needed to produce top quality dance music. From MIDI protocol and DJ production through DJ promotion and promotion. In addition, all essential concepts from music theory such as chords, bass and melody are explained clearly making learning music simple even for novice producers.
Snowman provides invaluable instruction on composing songs in specific genres like trance, techno or house using specific arrangements, synthesizer sounds and effects along with tips to make production sound professional.
However, the writing style could have been stronger; the book begins by overloading readers unfamiliar with this subject matter with too much information that may be hard for newcomers to process – particularly in its opening chapter where author introduces MIDI protocols and their mathematical underpinnings; perhaps it would have been wiser for him or her to give a general introduction of topics covered instead.
Synthesis
This book provides an abundance of knowledge for any individual interested in creating dance music, from basic MIDI and synth programming techniques through specific genres and computer programming/web page creation. However, due to its exhaustive and in-depth nature it can sometimes become challenging for readers who may not yet be acquainted with its topics.
This book begins with an overly lengthy lesson on the MIDI protocol and its mathematical theory behind its functioning, which may be necessary for professional musicians but will likely bore beginners or readers unfamiliar with its subject matter. A better approach would have been to cover these technical terms briefly before going onto explain their practical uses later in the book.
The next section explores synthesis techniques, providing an in-depth explanation of how producers and engineers create the distinctive sounds characteristic of dance music. Furthermore, this section covers various arranging and compositional aspects across various dance genres, offering valuable lessons about house, techno, and trance music styles as well as providing an overview of various audio equipment and software used by professional producers.
Sound Design
This book provides an in-depth exploration of all aspects needed to produce dance music, from MIDI protocols and basic synth programming, audio mixing and DJing skills, through to web page design – it covers it all! For anyone interested in electronic music production. This book should become essential reading.
However, reading experience was somewhat intimidating due to technical terms which might confuse novice producers. A substantial portion of pages was dedicated to explaining compressor operation on a mathematical and theoretical level; adding glossaries or chapters about specific technical or theoretical subjects at the end would be most helpful.
As part of their discussion on dance music genres, various chapters devote some space to discussing specific traits of each genre of dance music – which may be useful but is less applicable for beginners given that these characteristics arise naturally from each genre rather than technology used to produce it.
Furthermore, the author provides detailed analysis and compositional techniques of every genre of dance music; this section serves as a valuable resource for producers seeking to understand different genres such as house, techno, and trance music production styles. Furthermore, non-dance producers will find this knowledge beneficial when applying similar concepts into other genres.
Mixing & Mastering
This book provides a comprehensive guide for anyone who aspires to produce dance music. It covers everything from MIDI and its associated mathematical theory, sound design, production techniques and mastering. Furthermore, this guide also features tips on producing house, techno and trance genres of music, creating drum loops as well as advice for using different software packages.
This book’s author takes an accessible, practical approach to dance music production, making the information easily understandable for people of all levels of experience. Topics discussed in depth include compression, synthesis and recording technology as well as mastering best practices. Since its original publication date it has been revised several times with updates reflecting current trends in dance music production.
This book is an invaluable resource for learning dance music production, from beginners to veteran producers alike. With an in-depth coverage of essential topics such as MIDI, synthesizers, recording equipment and advanced topics such as EQing and mastering as well as providing detailed explanations of different genres such as techno trance dubstep music this book can prove a useful guide – though beginner readers may find its technical language and complex subjects challenging.
Genres
Though its writing style may be somewhat lacking, this book offers much to those interested in the composition and production of dance music. It covers topics ranging from MIDI protocols to basic synth programming techniques and drum loops to recording technology as well as sound design fundamentals like compression. Furthermore, this text presents various dance genres with their respective techniques, including house, techno and trance genres with complete musical analyses of them all.
The author takes an approach that is highly practical, providing many tips and tricks for creating amazing dance tracks. Of particular note is his recommendation of listening actively to popular and classic dance tracks in order to learn from their structure, mood, and rhythm.
Overall, this book should be required reading for any serious producer looking to produce their own unique and engaging dance tracks. However, nothing can replace practice, active listening, immersion and an abundance of creativity; therefore if purchasing it make sure that you allow enough time for processing all the information provided.