Synth School! Creating Sound with Hardware and Software Music Synthesizers

From 59 £ /h

Have you bought a synthesizer or modular rig and are not sure where to start? Tired of using stock presets when working with softsynths in your DAW? Ready to learn how it all *works*?

Learn from a pro - Andrew built Studio D, the electronic music suite at Omega Studios in Washington, DC. He created and ran the electronic music curriculum at Omega's School of Recording Arts and Sciences, where his students included industry professionals and recording artists like BT (EDM/trance pioneer, DJ and soundtrack composer).

Andrew holds a degree in Electronic Music from the American University, and is an avid synthpop producer himself, via his band Birmingham Electric, where he regularly works with collaborators including Peter Hook (New Order), Malcolm Holmes (Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark), Marco Pirroni (Adam and the Ants, Sinead O'Connor, Siouxsie and the Banshees) and Mark Reeder (MFS Records, Factory Records). He performs with synths live on a regular basis as well.

Andrew is a firm believer in going back to the root fundamentals and gaining a deep understanding of how sound works, as well as experiencing synthesis hands-on to build "muscle memory" for programming. Learn at your pace - whether you're an absolute newbie or further along and exploring where to go next. It's possible to learn in Andrew's studio in Haarlem, or in your own space on your own gear. You don't need to have any synths to get started, but if you do, we can use them.

Topics including -
- How sound works (a little friendly physics)
- Ways we model sound and the major types of synthesizers
- Hands-on with different synthesis techniques
- Translating sound ideas to synthesis
- Using synths in music composition
- Performing live with hardware and/or software synths
- How to choose synths or plugins for your studio
- Setting up your workspace - and workflow

Ready to up your synth game? Book a lesson with Andrew today!

Location

Use Ctrl + wheel to zoom!

At student's location :

Around Haarlem, Netherlands

At teacher's location :

Vredenrijkstraat, Haarlem, Netherlands

About Me

I've taught electronic music, sound synthesis, and digital audio workflows to all ages and abilities - from kids to some of the industry's most seasoned pros. I especially connect with people who want to go deeper into the "why" of electronic music rather than just learning rote instructions. I prefer teaching while students actually use the gear so that there is instant feedback as we work together - either in my studio or on your own gear.

Education

BA Electronic Music, The American University (via AU's highly-regarded Audio Technology Program)
MS Biotechnology / Bioinformatics, The Johns Hopkins University

Experience / Qualifications

Instructor and curriculum designer, Electronic Music and Sound Synthesis - Omega School of Recording Arts and Sciences, Washington DC
Producer and Lead Singer, Birmingham Electric (synthpop collaborative project with electronic pop pioneers)

Age

Teenagers (13-17 years old)

Adults (18-64 years old)

Seniors (65+ years old)

Student level

Beginner

Intermediate

Advanced

Duration

60 minutes

The class is taught in

English

Skills

Computer generated music

Sound (music)

Audio production

Availability of a typical week

(GMT -05:00)

New York

At teacher's location

At student's home

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Sun

00-04

04-08

08-12

12-16

16-20

20-24

Valeria

5.0

(1)

I am a classical and baroque bassist. Graduated from Amsterdam Conservatory (Bachelor and Master )
With more than 15 years playing my instrument and 3 years of teaching young kids and people from all ages and levels!

If you always wanted to learn the double bass is never to late to start!

Kirsi-Marja

5.0

(1)

Have you always wanted to play an instrument that is extremely diverse and used in many different music styles? Have a dream to learn to play the trumpet but never knew where to go and where to start? Have you been playing in the past and now you want to pick it up again, or continue learning with a teacher?

Your situation might be described above or be something different, it doesn't matter. I'm offering high-quality, student-centered trumpet lessons with years of teaching experience. My goal is to help you to reach your goals with whatever you want to learn with the instrument, and also equip you with good instrument technique and general music theory knowledge. I have studied both classical and jazz music and played also pop, funk and other styles of music. I have recently graduated from the Conservatorium van Amsterdam. In addition to trumpet playing, I'm also a singer and composer. I would be more than happy to teach you what I know from these fields of activities. I hope to see you at my lessons!

Kirsi

Pietro

5.0

(1)

Hallo! (Lessons in English)
Wilt u muziek uitgelegd?
Ik produceer Hiphop en elektronische muziek !
Beats, Instrumentals, Liedjes, Geluiden, Jingles : alles wat ik wil.
Ik ben altijd erg gepassioneerd geweest door geluiden en tot Ik 10 was, probeer ik het lekkerste muziek te creëren.
Ik heb onafhankelijk muzikale onderwijs maar heel technisch.

I wish you feel to
Be Ambitious to succeed
Be Imaginative to push the boundaries
Be Inspirational
Be Results-focused to exceed expectations and create structure

[LESSONS ARE GONNA BE IN ENGLISH]

The kind of lessons that I will host are very different and not mainly implemented on the theoretical part of the music production but on the practical one. I will explain you every step that I will take during my production process.
I will produce beats using my techniques and methods during the lessons and I'll try to transplant in you the beauty of immagine, composing, editing, mix and producing your own ideas, IN YOUR OWN NATURAL WAY.

As long as I'm not an academic teacher what I'm offering is close contact with my students to inspire, correct when is really needed and create together what is really close to our soul.
The most important goal during our path? To work and discover your strong points and avoid the bad ones trying to understand them, understand your root.

I will follow you like I follow the artist that I produce.
First rule: HAVING FUN, BECAUSE MUSIC IS FUN!
The feeling that you have when your music is there and is playing for you and for the others will be amazing. I promise you.

Hartelijk Bedankt
Pietro

Santiago

5.0

(1)

Learning to play the guitar can be an amazing experience at every stage of the process! My ultimate goal is to help my students to develop their skills and musical understanding by learning and playing music that they like.

Therefore I adapt my teaching methodologies to the tastes and needs of every student. Throughout every lesson, we will work on three main courses of development: technical aspects, theoretical knowledge, and performative practice.

My classes are open for anyone who would like to enjoy exploring the universe of music: beginners and advanced, children and adults, you are all welcome to book the first lesson.

Diana

5.0

(1)

Hallo! If you love cello, it is the right time to start learning!

As a teacher with 12 years of experience I offer private lessons for all ages and all levels.
I have learned my teaching skills from famous cello pedagogues from all over the world. I have experience in teaching to children as well as adults and I consider essential that we both have fun while learning such a wonderful thing as playing music! Lessons will be adapted to your needs and we will develop together your musicality and technical skills.
Also possible to ask for academic support with the instrument, music theory or history.

Lessons can be in English, Spanish, French and Dutch. If you still don't have an instrument yourself, I can give some suggestions about where and how to find it - please don't hesitate to contact me if interested!

Hope to hear from you soon!
Diana

Iara

5.0

(1)

Hi there! Have you always wanted to learn the flute or do you feel like picking up this beautiful instrument again after a break?

As a teacher with more than 6 years of experience, I offer private lessons for all ages and all levels.
I learned my teaching skills from famous flute teachers of our time. I have experience teaching both children and adults and I think it is essential that we both have fun while learning something as wonderful as playing music! Lessons are adapted to your needs and we will develop your musicality and technical skills together. In addition to Classical music, we can also work on other music styles if necessary. For example, I am familiar with Brazilian folk music, Baroque music, Modern Music and Jazz.
It is also possible to request academic support with the instrument, music theory or history.

Lessons can be given in English and Dutch. If you don't have an instrument of your own yet, I can give some suggestions on where and how to find/rent one - don't hesitate to contact me if you're interested.

I hope to hear from you soon!
Iara

Jim

5.0

(1)

Hi, my name is Jim. I'm an electronic music producer with a Master’s degree in Music from the Fontys Academy of Arts (Rockacademie) in Tilburg, Netherlands. Music has always been my way of exploring the world — through raw field recordings, synthesis, and emotional storytelling. Over the past 12 years, I’ve developed a complete, self-sufficient creative process: from concept to composition, sound design to vocal production, mixing, mastering, and live performance. I’m passionate about helping others gain those same end-to-end technical skills — so they can bring their own musical vision fully to life.

As Malvae, I’ve written, sung, recorded, produced, mixed, mastered, and performed all of my work. My music reached #17 in the Spotify Viral 50 charts in the USA, gathered millions of streams, and featured in international film productions including King of the Streets and Netflix’s Terrace House Japan. One of the most formative moments in my career was my Amazonas album project, where I traveled into the Amazon rainforest to record and manipulate natural sounds. 90% of that album was created entirely from these field recordings, reshaped through granular synthesis and advanced sound design into a cohesive sonic journey. That experience deeply shaped how I approach my music and how I teach sound design and composition.

I’ve headlined shows at iconic venues like Melkweg Amsterdam with immersive, self-built audiovisual live sets using Ableton Live, modular gear, sequencers, and Resolume for live integrated visuals. I curated my own events and performed at venues like A’dam Tower, OT301. I also teach at studios such as Wisseloord in Hilversum, guiding students through the technical and creative intersections of sound and performance.

Selected Works & Collaborations:

My EP Like Bees to a Hive began as a soundscape for fashion brand Lobomar’s collection Final Orders, Please, presented at the Amsterdam World Museum. I collaborated with South African poet Julia-Beth Harris, integrating her spoken word into a seamless, atmospheric release. From sequential Prophet 6 textures to ADX1 drum machine layers and detailed field recordings, I handled every layer, from concept through multitrack production to the final live performance in London.

My Chrysalis EP, released as a limited-edition heavyweight red vinyl, pushed that even further, combining ethereal vocals, analog grit, and unique textures to craft an emotionally rich release. I personally led every part of the project’s technical and creative execution, from arrangement and vocal production to final mixing, mastering and vinyl press preparation.

In addition to my own projects, I’ve worked as a vocal producer and mixing engineer, including on Esther Veen’s EP Before I Go, where I handled recording, complex vocal layering, creative processing, production, multivocal arrangement and final mixing to deliver a polished, high-impact sound.

About the lessons:

My sessions are fully customised to your experience level, goals and grounded in real-world music production. Whether you’re just getting started or want to deepen your technical ability, you’ll learn how to develop professional workflows and the creative independence to finish what you start.

We can explore:

- Building advanced music production workflows and creative strategies
- Recording, Composition, arrangement, and storytelling through sound
- Full-stack mixing and mastering — from bedroom setups to pro-level delivery
- Synthesis and sampling — from sound shaping basics to high-level manipulation
- Multi vocal production, vocal recording, editing, layering, FX, and creative processing techniques
- Translating your music into a compelling live set with Ableton Live
- Applying music theory practically in electronic, cinematic, and contemporary music

Lessons are available online or in-person at my studio in Amsterdam. For online students, I use high-quality real-time tools that allow us to collaborate with full-resolution audio directly from your DAW — no screen sharing limitations, just real work in real time.

My own musical path often started by blending the sounds I encountered in the world, whether from distant rainforests or my own voice , into something personal and expressive.
I found my sound that way, and I’d love to help you find yours.

(And don’t worry — we won’t have to go to the ends of the earth to do it. I’ll show you how to turn the sounds you already have into something truly your own.)

Whether you're just starting out or ready to go deeper, I look forward to helping you grow through structured, creative, and technically grounded electronic music education.

Lucy

5.0

(1)

For artists, songwriters, and creatives ready to shape their vision.

Are you working on your own songs and feeling stuck?
Do you have a head full of ideas but struggle to bring them together into one clear artistic story?
Or maybe you’ve already created something you're proud of, but you want to take it further — deeper, bolder, more you.

I'm here to help you connect the dots.

As a singer, songwriter, producer and creative director working on my own debut album, I know how overwhelming the creative process can feel. There’s so much more to being an artist than just making music. Your sound, your visuals, your story, your live performance — it’s all connected. That’s where I come in.

In our sessions, we can explore whatever part of your creative world needs support:

🎵 Songwriting – melody, lyrics, structure, harmony
🎧 Production Direction – from early sketches to refined ideas
🌙 Artistic Identity – visual storytelling, aesthetics, branding
🎤 Performance & Presence – connecting with your audience
💡 Creative Strategy – organizing ideas and unlocking new ones
🌀 Intuitive Guidance – sometimes you just need a sounding board

You don’t have to do this alone.

Whether you're a beginner or a more advanced artist, we’ll work with what’s already inside you — your instincts, your taste, your questions. Sessions are fully personalized and can be a one-time deep dive or part of a longer creative journey together.

Deniz

5.0

(1)

In this class, we use Ableton Live as a creative tool to explore music production, composition, and sound design. Whether you're a beginner or already producing, the lessons are tailored to your goals. whether that’s making beats, writing songs, or designing experimental soundscapes. You'll learn how to turn your musical ideas into finished tracks, while gaining practical knowledge of arrangement, audio effects, MIDI, sampling, and more. Theory is introduced in a simple, intuitive way to support your creativity, and improvisation is encouraged to help you find your own sound. My goal is to give you the tools—and the confidence—to create music that feels truly yours.

Yehorii

5.0

(1)

If you've ever wanted to record your own song, make a beat, create a musical demo, or bring a musical idea to life, you'll need some basic knowledge of a DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) and how music recording works.
I can help you set up your home studio and guide you step-by-step through using Ableton Live or FL Studio.

If you don’t have a background in music theory, no worries — I’ll also introduce you to the basics of music theory and piano playing. This will give you the tools to create your own music from scratch, without needing to go to a studio — everything can be done right from your home.

During the lesson, we can create a beat or work on an idea you’d like to turn into reality.
My goal is to give you the tools that will help bring your musical ideas to life.

Bea

5.0

(1)

The world of electronic music can feel overwhelming at first, and knowing where to start isn’t always easy. My goal as a teacher is to help you create the music you truly want to make, or further develop your skills regarding:
- Ableton Live: From Basics to Advanced levels
- Electronic Music practice: recording, looping integrating acoustic instruments, MIDI instruments, sound synthesis, audio manipulation and sound design.
- Ear Training & Music Analysis: Analyse songs and sounds that inspire you to understand their musical elements.
- Sound Effects & Mixing: EQ, compression, distortion, reverb, panning, etc.
- Sound Processing & Manipulation: Advanced techniques to design unique sounds from scratch (stretching, pitch shifting, deconstruction, sampling and more).
- Music theory and creative tools.

I always focus on personalised guidance (no matter if you have not started yet, or want a more advance and concrete guidance) by helping you overcome doubts and supporting you on your journey into the exciting world of music creation!

Joris

5.0

(1)

Looking for high-quality piano lessons? Joris offers personal coaching for beginning and advanced pianists in Amsterdam East. With me, you will not only learn to play the right notes, but also understand how to make them sound. With 'the best ears in town,' I guide you like a sound architect in developing technique, musical insight, and the art of listening.

Whether you want to perfect your piano technique, compose your own pieces, or learn how to create a professional production: I offer meticulous, tailored guidance.

My expertise includes:
• Piano lessons (Classical, Jazz, Pop, Crossover)
• Music Theory & Composition
• Coaching in Music Production (Editing, Mixing & Mastering)

In my studio on Zeeburgereiland (or at your home in Amsterdam), your musical development and enjoyment of playing come first. Professional guidance with a personal approach.

---

George

5.0

(1)

If you are interested in composition, music production, songwriting and performance but feel like you need some technical or creative motivation, this is the lesson for you. If you feel discouraged or overwhelmed by the technical aspects of a creative process, this is the lesson for you.

In these lessons, we will work on making the most of what we have through creative-problem solving and inspiration-hunting. You bring your ideas and we develop them together, have challenging conversations and explore alternative approaches to composition, production and songwriting to get you closer to your vision. We will also explore the many possibilities of working with a live band, ensemble or orchestra and how to encourage a healthy but focused work process.

Some more things covered in the process:

- Logic Pro X (mixing, producing, sampling, midi, audio recording)

- Composition (score writing / editing, notation software, orchestration / arrangement, music theory, composing for film / video)

- Songwriting (arranging, alternative score-writing, band communication, demo-making)

- Experimental production (eg. no-input mixing, prepared instruments, effect-pedals)
_________________________________________________________________

Do not let your ambition be hindered by limitations, but allow it to be inspired by them!

Natalie

5.0

(1)

Ableton is an diverse, creativity-fueled music production software that allows you to create, compose and experiment with sound. It is a powerful tool for both music production and for live performances. Although it can seem daunting at first, I will guide you through the software via a custom-made path based entirely on your goals.

My classes are suitable for complete beginners, as well students at an intermediate levels. Together we will dive into the software on both a practical and creative level, all while keeping your creative goals in mind.

I have been a making music for over fifteen years, and producing in Ableton for seven. I am a graduate of AEMA - the Electronic Music department at Conservatory of Amsterdam. I produce and perform electronic music under the name Age of Aconitum.

Classes are available in English and Spanish

Alexandru

5.0

(1)

I'm an electronic music producer, former international DJ, record label founder, and music industry professional with over 15 years of experience in music production, DJing, artist development, and the recording industry.

My goal is to help aspiring producers, DJs, and electronic artists develop their own sound, improve their technical skills, and transform their ideas into professional, release-ready music.

Throughout my career, I've explored a wide range of electronic music genres, including Minimal, Techno, Rominimal, Deep Tech, Tech House, Raw Hypnotic Techno, Melodic Techno, and Hard Techno. This versatility allows me to adapt my teaching to different production styles, whether you're interested in stripped-back underground grooves, hypnotic rhythms, melodic arrangements, or harder, more industrial sounds.

My Professional Background

My journey in electronic music began around 2008–2009, when I started producing and experimenting with different sounds. What began as a passion eventually developed into an international career spanning music production, DJ performances, record label management, and the corporate music industry.

As a DJ, I was a resident at Amsterdam's iconic Sugarfactory and held other club residencies and performed across the Netherlands, Germany, Italy, and Romania and other countries. These experiences taught me much more than simply mixing records. I learned how to understand different audiences, build energy throughout a set, create a musical journey, and recognize what makes a track work on a club sound system.

In 2013, I founded Consumed Music, an independent electronic music record label that I managed until 2024. Running my own label gave me firsthand experience in A&R, music production, artist relationships, release management, distribution, promotion, and the challenges of building an identity in the underground electronic music scene.

My music has received support from internationally recognized DJs, including Richie Hawtin, and my production work has also extended into projects connected with Netflix's Sense8 and Crytek .

Alongside my creative career, I've worked professionally with Universal Music Group (UMG) and Armada Music, gaining experience in the international recording industry, digital music platforms, royalties, and music business operations.

Having worked on both sides of the industry, as an independent artist and label owner as well as within major music companies, I can offer students a practical understanding of how music is created, released, distributed, and developed professionally

What You Will Learn

1. Electronic Music Production & Sound Design (Ableton Live)

Whether you're completely new to Ableton Live or already producing music, I can help you develop a more structured, creative, and efficient approach to production.

We'll cover:

- Creating powerful kicks, basslines, rolling grooves, and dynamic percussion.
- Understanding the relationship between kick drums, bass frequencies, and low-end balance.
- Synthesis, sampling, sound layering, atmospheric textures, and creative sound design.
- Building grooves and arrangements across genres such as Rominimal, Deep Tech, Tech House, Melodic Techno, and Raw Hypnotic Techno.
- Turning simple 8-bar loops into complete tracks without losing energy or musical direction.
- Improving your Ableton Live workflow, project organization, and creative decision-making.
- Developing your own recognizable sound instead of simply copying existing artists.

One of the biggest challenges producers face is finishing music. I'll help you understand how to move beyond endless loops and develop complete arrangements that are ready for mixing, mastering, and release.

2. Mixing & Mastering for Electronic Music

A good production needs a good mix, especially when it's intended for club environments.

I'll teach you how to approach mixing and mastering with a better understanding of sound, dynamics, and frequency balance.

Topics include:

- EQ, compression, saturation, reverb, delay, and stereo imaging.
- Creating clean, controlled low frequencies while maintaining punch and energy.
- Balancing individual sounds so they work together naturally.
- Understanding loudness, dynamics, headroom, and limiting.
- Preparing your mixes for mastering and professional distribution.
- Improving how your tracks translate between headphones, studio monitors, and club sound systems.

We'll also discuss the technical expectations of professional record labels and how to prepare your music for submission.

My aim is to help you understand not only which tools to use, but why and when to use them.

3. DJing, Club Performance & Live Workflows

DJing involves much more than beatmatching or transitioning between tracks.

Drawing from my international club residencies and performances, I can help you develop the musical awareness and technical confidence needed to build engaging sets.

We'll explore:

- Track selection, mixing techniques, and music library organization.
- Understanding phrasing, rhythm, energy, and musical transitions.
- Building a set that tells a story rather than simply playing one track after another.
- Reading the dancefloor and adapting to different audiences.
- Developing your own musical identity as a DJ.
- Preparing music for club performances and integrating Ableton Live into hybrid setups.

I'll also share practical lessons from my years performing internationally, including the challenges of playing different venues, understanding different crowds, and maintaining a consistent musical direction.

4. Music Business, Record Labels & Artist Development

This is an area where my experience goes beyond traditional music production lessons.

Having founded and managed an independent record label and worked with Universal Music Group and Armada Music, I can help you understand how the music industry operates behind the scenes.

We'll cover:

- How to prepare and present demos professionally.
- Understanding what A&R teams and record labels look for when reviewing music.
- Approaching labels and building professional relationships.
- Understanding music distribution, royalties, and digital music platforms.
- Planning releases and understanding the role of platforms such as Beatport.
- Developing your artist identity, branding, and long-term musical direction.
- Understanding the differences between independent labels and major music companies.
- Learning when to release music independently and when to approach an established label.

I can also help you evaluate your own productions from both a creative and industry perspective, identifying what can be improved before submitting them to labels.

My Teaching Approach

I believe music production is best learned through practice, experimentation, and understanding the creative decisions behind each sound.

My lessons are practical, relaxed, and tailored to your individual goals. I don't believe in teaching everyone the same formula, because every artist has different influences, abilities, and ambitions.

If you're a beginner, we'll focus on building a strong foundation and helping you become comfortable with Ableton Live and the fundamentals of electronic music production.

If you're already producing, we can work directly on your existing projects, identify areas that need improvement, and develop the skills needed to bring your tracks closer to a professional standard.

If your goal is to release music, we can focus on arrangement, mixing, final production details, demo preparation, and understanding how to approach record labels.

I encourage students to bring their own Ableton Live projects, unfinished tracks, musical references, and creative ideas to our sessions. This allows us to work on real challenges rather than spending hours on generic tutorials.

You'll receive direct, constructive feedback, practical demonstrations, and insights from my experience in studios, clubs, independent record labels, and major music companies.

Most importantly, I want you to understand what you're doing and why, so you can eventually make confident creative decisions independently.

Who Are These Lessons For?

My lessons are suitable for:

- Beginners who want to learn Ableton Live and start producing electronic music.
- Intermediate producers looking to improve their sound design, arrangements, and mixing.
- Experienced producers who struggle to finish tracks or want an outside professional perspective.
- DJs who want to start producing their own music or develop their performance skills.
- Independent artists preparing demos, planning releases, or approaching record labels.
- Anyone interested in understanding the creative and business sides of the electronic music industry.

You don't need expensive equipment or a professional studio to begin. A computer, Ableton Live, and a genuine interest in making music are enough to get started.

Let's Work on Your Music

After more than 15 years in electronic music, I've learned that there is no single formula for becoming a successful producer or artist. Developing your own sound takes time, patience, experimentation, and a willingness to keep learning.

My role is to share what I've learned throughout my career, help you avoid common mistakes, and give you the tools and confidence to develop your music in your own direction.

Whether you want to finish your first track, improve your productions, prepare a release, or better understand the music industry, I'd be happy to help.

Book your first lesson, bring your ideas or unfinished projects, and let's start making music.