Discover top online courses in music production and marketing to enhance your skills and advance your music career. Explore offerings from Berklee Online, Soundfly, and more.
So you’re looking to level up your music game, maybe sharpen your production skills, or finally crack the code of music marketing. The good news? You don’t need to enroll in a fancy college or drop serious cash to do it. There are tons of online courses that can help you master everything from beat-making to building your brand.
Let’s break down some of the best options out there, and how to pick the one that’s right for you.
What to Think About Before You Dive In
Before you hit that “enroll” button, take a sec to ask yourself:
- Am I a total beginner, or do I already know a thing or two?
- Do the instructors actually have real-world experience?
- Is there any mentorship or personalized feedback included?
Answering these questions helps you avoid wasting time (and money) on a course that doesn’t really fit your vibe.
Top Online Courses for Music Production
Berklee Online: Music Production Courses
Overview: Berklee Online, the online extension of Berklee College of Music, offers accredited courses in music production. Their curriculum is designed by industry professionals and provides a deep dive into various aspects of music production.
Notable Courses:
- Music Production 101: An introductory course covering the fundamentals of recording, mixing, and mastering.
- Advanced Music Production: Focuses on advanced techniques in digital audio workstations (DAWs) and sound design.
Key Features:
- Accredited courses with transferable credits.
- Access to Berklee’s renowned faculty and resources.
- Flexible learning schedules to accommodate different time zones.
Learn more at Berklee Online Courses.
Soundfly: Creative Music Production Courses
Overview: Soundfly is an online music education platform that offers courses and mentorship sessions tailored to various music production topics. They collaborate with industry experts to provide unique learning experiences.
Notable Courses:
- The Art of Hip-Hop Production: Taught by RJD2, this course delves into sampling, beat-making, and arrangement techniques.
- Synthesizer Programming: Covers the essentials of sound design using synthesizers.
Key Features:
- One-on-one mentorship with industry professionals.
- Project-based learning for practical application.
- Access to a community of like-minded learners.
Discover more at Soundfly Courses.
Coursera: Music Production Specialization
Overview: In partnership with Berklee College of Music, Coursera offers a Music Production Specialization that covers the complete production process.
Notable Courses:
- The Technology of Music Production: Explores the tools and techniques used in modern music production.
- Pro Tools Basics: An introduction to one of the industry’s standard DAWs.
Key Features:
- Self-paced learning with flexible deadlines.
- Peer-reviewed assignments and community forums.
- Certificates upon completion.
Explore courses on Coursera Online.
Top Online Courses for Music Marketing
Berklee Online: Music Marketing Courses
Overview: Berklee Online offers courses that focus on the business side of music, including marketing strategies tailored for the music industry.
Notable Courses:
- Music Marketing: Teaches strategies for promoting music in the digital age.
- Social Media Marketing for Musicians: Focuses on leveraging social media platforms to build a fanbase.
Key Features:
- Curriculum designed by industry veterans.
- Practical assignments that apply to real-world scenarios.
- Networking opportunities with peers and professionals.
Find out more at Berklee Online.
Udemy: Music Marketing Mastery
Overview: Udemy hosts a variety of courses on music marketing, suitable for beginners and seasoned musicians alike.
Notable Courses:
- Music Marketing: Press, Promotion, Distribution, and Retail: Covers the essentials of getting your music heard.
- Spotify Marketing for Musicians: Focuses on strategies to increase streams and followers on Spotify.
Key Features:
- Lifetime access to course materials.
- Affordable pricing with frequent discounts.
- Practical tips from industry professionals.
Browse courses on Udemy.
Skillshare: Music Marketing Classes
Overview: Skillshare offers classes that cater to various aspects of music marketing, from branding to audience engagement.
Notable Classes:
- Music Marketing Strategies: Learn how to create effective marketing plans.
- Building Your Brand as a Musician: Focuses on personal branding and image.
Key Features:
- Community-based learning with project feedback.
- Access to multiple classes with a subscription.
- Classes taught by experienced marketers and musicians.
Explore classes on Skillshare.
| Platform | Focus Area | Best For | Key Features | Price (Est.) |
| Berklee Online | Production & Marketing | In-depth, accredited learning | College-level courses, flexible schedule | $$ – $$$ |
| Soundfly | Creative Production | Mentorship, genre-specific training | One-on-one mentoring, artist-led | $$ – $$$ |
| Coursera | Production | Foundational skills | Certificates, self-paced | Free – $$ |
| Udemy | Marketing | Quick, practical tips | Lifetime access, budget-friendly | $ – $$ |
| Skillshare | Branding & Social Media | DIY musicians & creatives | Unlimited classes w/ subscription | $ (monthly) |
Final Thoughts
If you’re serious about taking your music to the next level, whether that’s leveling up your sound or finally cracking marketing, these online courses can be total game changers. The best part? You can learn at your own pace, on your own schedule, and without breaking the bank.
No matter which platform you pick, the key is to stay curious, stay consistent, and keep creating.
Curious to learn more? Check out how to build a budget studio here.
FAQ
Yes, many online courses are designed with beginners in mind, offering step-by-step guidance and foundational knowledge to help you get started in music production.
Consider your current skill level, specific marketing goals, and the course curriculum. Look for courses that offer practical strategies relevant to today’s digital landscape.
It depends on the platform. Some, like Udemy, offer lifetime access, while others may have limited access periods. Always check the course details before enrolling.
