Join today

Music Composition 101: Fundamentals, Principles, and Myths

Demystifying music composition, film scoring, music production, and more
Write your awesome label here.
What you are going to learn

When most people think of a composer, they imagine someone sitting in a dusty attic with a grand piano, big white wig, and the year is 1800.

That might have been accurate back then, but the modern composer is just like you and me. In fact, I am one. 

In this course I'll show you techniques I use for writing music in a variety of styles and situations. I've worked with major American orchestras, film studios, and video game designers, so I've got more than a little experience. I'm also a PhD in music composition and a university professor (of music composition).
Here is a list of some of the topics we will cover:
  • My background, and listen to some of my music
  • What you need to know
  • Myths of the composer
  • Tools of the trade: Software
  • Tools of the trade: Pencils and fine paper
  • How do you start?
  • The process
  • Program music and metaphors
  • Character sketches
  • Writing through canon
  • Form
  • Starting with a plan
  • Graphic form representations
  • Film Music and Tension Cues
  • Composing for Films and Games
  • Any much, much, more!

Dr. J. Anthony Allen

Music PhD, Producer, Composer, Instructor, Professor, Author, & Ableton Certified Trainer. 
About
Dr. Allen is a professional musician, top-rated online instructor, and university professor. In 2017 the Star Tribune featured him as a "Mover and a Shaker," and he is recognized by the Grammy Foundation for his music education classes. He currently teaches at Augsburg University in Minneapolis, MN, Slam Academy, and Punkademic Courses.

Course reviews

Very interesting and helpful advice on how to approach composing music. J. get's you started regardless of your skill level. Amazingly refreshing.
- Colja Belgium
I've sung in choirs and choruses (barbershop to church to symphony) all my life. Also studied classical voice. Now that I'm retired, a "bucket list" item of mine has been to compose a choral piece or "art song" of some kind. I just loved this class! Jason is so knowledgeable, accessible, and amiable! 
- Sylvia Ahern