This Specialization will give you the knowledge and tools you need to record and produce professional sounding music. You will begin by developing your identity, vision, and intention as an artist and producer. Next, you will learn the technical aspects of music production, including how sound is translated into audio signals, recording techniques, and effects such as reverb, delay, and compression. You will also learn how to use the industry standard Digital Audio Workstation, Pro Tools, to create professional recordings. Finally, you will apply the knowledge and tools you gained in a culminating 4-week Capstone where you will complete a project beginning at the pre-production stage through the recording, mixing, and mastering stages.
Music Production Specialization
Music Production Specialization
Develop Your Creativity as a Music Producer . Learn the art and technology of music production to create professional music compositions.
Instructors: Stephen Webber
50,426 already enrolled
Included with 
Get in-depth knowledge of a subject
4.8
(1,853 reviews)
Beginner level
Recommended experience
1 month
at 10 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
What you'll learn
Identify and use reference tracks to establish a vision for your production
Use the Production Check-List to run an efficient and well-organized recording session
Edit your tracks while using your reference tracks and emotional and dynamic timelines to realize your vision for your production
Evaluate your mix by crtically listening to it on different sound systems (ear buds, in the car, sound system, computer, etc.)
Skills you'll gain
Details to know
Shareable certificate
Add to your LinkedIn profile
Taught in English
See how employees at top companies are mastering in-demand skills
Advance your subject-matter expertise
- Learn in-demand skills from university and industry experts
- Master a subject or tool with hands-on projects
- Develop a deep understanding of key concepts
- Earn a career certificate from Berklee
Earn a career certificate
Add this credential to your LinkedIn profile, resume, or CV
Share it on social media and in your performance review
Specialization - 4 course series
The Art of Music Production
Course 113 hours4.8 (2,029 ratings)
What you'll learn
Discuss why one musical recording is more compelling than another and identify the unique elements of the recording that contribute to it
Begin to assess and establish your identity, vision, and intention as an artist and producer
Write and develop a compelling piece of music by utilizing various tools
Establish the sonic signature of your production by utilizing specific production techniques
Skills you'll gain
Category: Music
Category: Songwriting
Category: Music production
Category: Audio Production
Category: Music recording
The Technology of Music Production
Course 217 hours4.8 (1,058 ratings)
What you'll learn
Discuss the nature of sound, how it travels, and its properties
Set up your Digital Audio Workstation, record audio, and utilize basic audio editing techniques such as trimming, fades, and merging
Define the different categories of effects: Dynamic Effects, Delay Effects, and Filter Effects and use them effectively in a recording project
Discuss the role filters play in music synthesis and define how they effect the input signal
Skills you'll gain
Category: Audio Editing
Category: Music
Category: Sound Design
Category: Audio Recording
Category: Audio Production
Pro Tools Basics
Course 311 hours4.7 (596 ratings)
What you'll learn
Identify the various components in the Pro Tools interface and organize session files
Discuss difference between a synthesizer and sampler and know how to use each of them
Record a live performance into Pro Tools
Balance your production mix by adjusting levels, using pan, and applying effects such as EQ, reverb, and compression
Skills you'll gain
Category: Music
Category: Pro Tools
Category: Music production
Category: Music recording
Category: MIDI
Music Production Capstone
Course 48 hours4.8 (122 ratings)
What you'll learn
Create a mock up of your song, using the emotional and dynamic timeline technique to "map" the arrangement of your production
Run a recording session effectively, including creating a comfortable space and providing effective feedback to musicians
Edit your tracks while using your reference tracks and emotional and dynamic timelines to realize your vision for your production
Ensure all instruments sound their best by using level, panning, EQ, and other effects and evaluate your mix by listening to it critically
Skills you'll gain
Category: Music
Category: Music production
Category: music editing
Category: Music mixing
Offered by
Why people choose Coursera for their career
Felipe M.
Learner since 2018
"To be able to take courses at my own pace and rhythm has been an amazing experience. I can learn whenever it fits my schedule and mood."
Jennifer J.
Learner since 2020
"I directly applied the concepts and skills I learned from my courses to an exciting new project at work."
Larry W.
Learner since 2021
"When I need courses on topics that my university doesn't offer, Coursera is one of the best places to go."
Chaitanya A.
"Learning isn't just about being better at your job: it's so much more than that. Coursera allows me to learn without limits."
Open new doors with Coursera Plus
Unlimited access to 7,000+ world-class courses, hands-on projects, and job-ready certificate programs - all included in your subscription
Advance your career with an online degree
Earn a degree from world-class universities - 100% online
Join over 3,400 global companies that choose Coursera for Business
Upskill your employees to excel in the digital economy
Frequently asked questions
You can complete the specialization at your own pace, however, if you stick to the schedule, the whole specialization is 18 weeks:
The Art of Music Production - 4 weeks
The Technology of Music Production - 4 weeks
Pro Tools Basics - 4 weeks
Capstone - 4 weeks
You do not need to have any prior experience or knowledge in music production to take this specialization, however, if you are a seasoned music producer, this specialization will help you to continue to build your skills and hone your craft.
Yes. The recommended order is:
The Art of Production
The Technology of Production
Pro Tools Basics
Capstone