Music Theory for Electronic Producers

This method covers the basic Music Theory needed by current electronic music producers. Contrasting with classical music theory approaches, this book is aimed to focus on the basics used in popular music. Topics covered include: basic drum groove programming, chord progressions, scales, melody writing, arranging, transposing and modes. The digital component of the book consists of activities to be completed in the DAW (digital audio workstation) of your choice. Activities reinforce topics covered by the book, in genres of popular electronic music (from house, to trap, to hip hop, etc). After completing the method, students will be able to compose music, without needing MIDI packs or samples. Students will also better understand how to use these MIDI packs, samples, and other tools, in conjunction with their modern compositions.

In a time period when composition happens on the computer, Music Theory is more important than ever. A computer is like the most sophisticated orchestra on the planet. Music Theory helps us to compose music for this "orchestra", in a systematic and purposeful way. Theory allows us to better understand our influences, and our own music. This method covers the basic Music Theory needed by current electronic music producers. Contrasting with classical music theory approaches, this book is aimed to focus on the basics used in popular music. Topics covered include: basic drum groove programming, chord progressions, scales, melody writing, arranging, transposing and modes. The digital component of the book consists of activities to be completed in the DAW (digital audio workstation) of your choice. Activities reinforce topics covered by the book, in genres of popular electronic music (from house, to trap, to hip hop, etc). After completing the method, students will be able to compose music, without needing MIDI packs or samples. Students will also better understand how to use these MIDI packs, samples, and other tools, in conjunction with their modern compositions.

Andrew Krause is a multi-instrumentalist, composer and producer with over 10 years experience teaching guitar, piano, drums, ukulele, and music theory. Andrew also teaches Apple Logic, Ableton Live and Finale, in conjunction with music composition and production techniques. As an electronic music producer, under the alias D.R.U., Andrew has produced official remixes for several notable artists, including Grammy nominees The Nappy Roots. His original compositions have been featured in music libraries and have received placement in television shows and events. (MTV, CBS, VH1, Netflix, Fox and Hulu) Andrew holds a Bachelors Degree in Music from the University of San Diego, where he received department honors.