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Reason Course - Beginners

Overview

Reason is easy to learn but difficult to master. No matter what style of music you want to make, you'll find the tools for the job right here. Featuring in-depth guides to drum programming, synthesis, EQ, effects and mixing. Perfect for beginners, but even experienced Reason users will benefit by uploading their music each week for DVR™- expert analysis and video feedback on your work from a pro producer.

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Course Materials

1-2-1 video feedback on your music
Weekly online masterclass with a pro producer
Over 20 video tutorials on Reason
Extensive course notes

Reason projects to download
Exclusive samples & audio resources
24/7 access to student / tutor discussion forums

Course Contents

Week 1: What is MIDI Sequencing?

Music structure: beats, bars, tempo & time signature
Instruments and devices in Reason
Your first MIDI recording

Week 2: Drum Programming - Step sequencing

Drum machines and step sequencing
How to make a beat in Reason
Syncopation and accents

Week 3: Drum programming: Live feel & Groove

MIDI editing: using note length and velocity
Record 'live' MIDI drums and use quantize functions
How to add groove to your beats in Reason

Week 4: Percussion & using REX Files

Percussion instruments and their roles
The Dr. REX player in Reason. Using REX files
Create a basic arrangement for your rhythm track

Week 5: Basic Music Theory - Chords

Basic Theory: notes, octaves, tone & semi tone
Scale and chord construction and inversion
Using the NN19 & NN-XT instruments in Reason

Week 6: The Bassline

The role of the bassline & groove in modern music
Which notes to play & why
Recording & editing techniques in Subtractor

Week 7: Basic Analog Synthesis (part 1)

Using synthesizers in Reason: Subtractor
Shape sounds using the oscillator, filter & envelope
Tips for creating 'classic' synth sounds

Week 8: Basic Analog Synthesis (part 2)

Using modulation to give expression to a sound
Modulate the filter using envelope & velocity
How to use LFO & portamento / glide

Week 9: The Matrix

Creating riffs and sequences
Using The Matrix: analogue style step sequencing
Pattern switching and synth parameter control

Week 10: Structure & Arrangement

Arrangement & instrumentation
Tips on structuring a club track
Add breaks, cuts and fills to add interest

Week 11: Basic Mixing

How to use the mixer in Reason
Levels & panning controls
How to use EQ, reverb & delay

Week 12: Final project

Mix your finished track for audio CD and MP3
Final Test
Submit your final project

Tutor profile

JC Concato
JC's previous projects include production, engineering and remix work for the likes of Bjork, Portishead, The Cure, Erasure, Allister Whitehead, Galliano, Pressure Drop, Raggatwins and Renegade Soundwave.