Synth School! Creating Sound with Hardware and Software Music Synthesizers

From 61.63 £ /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!

Klaas

5.0

(1)

From my studio at the Berlagebrug, I give Piano lessons to beginners and (semi) advanced students. The lessons take place on a Yamaha wing and when a piece is well under control, we can make a professional recording of it.

I graduated in 1992 as a musician from the Hilversum Conservatory (nowadays Conservatory of Amsterdam) in the direction of light music, or jazz and pop. So with me, you learn not only to read notes but also chord schemes and - if you want - improvisation. Or we search together for a song that you would like to play and make a nice adaptation of it. Together we first look at exactly what you want to learn and align the curriculum.

I can also help you learn how to compose and produce. I work with Pro Tools and Logic Pro X.

For classical Piano lessons, I would rather refer you to someone else.

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

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.

Fani

5.0

(1)

Music Production, Music Technology, Electronic music composition. Audio Recording and mixing.
Learn how to use Logic Pro X, Ableton, Reaper etc. Depending on your level the lessons start from basic music technology principles to advanced music production techniques.

Beginners: I can teach you about the types of microphones and how to use them (Audio Recording), introduce you to the basic audio equipment, and teach you how to use a Digital Audio Workstation (Audio mixing & Audio editing).
Intermediate/Advanced: For advanced levels, we can focus on production and mixing techniques, special effects, composition, aesthetics, and adjust the lesson to your knowledge.

Get in touch to discuss your needs, every lesson is personalized.

Lucy

5.0

(1)

[EN below]

Do you have a passion for music and dream of learning to sing, play the piano, write your own songs, or even discover the magic of music production in Logic Pro X? Search no further!

Together we can search for the perfect lesson content that is specifically tailored to you, so that I can always offer what you want. Multiple interests? – then we can even combine different disciplines for an even richer learning path. The lesson material is infused with my personal experiences as a professional musician in the pop industry, knowledge from previous classical piano and theory lessons, singing lessons and the insights I gained during my completed studies at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam (Pop).

Expect a professional approach during class, combined with a fun and unique teaching experience designed especially for you.

-

Are you passionate about music and do you dream of learning to sing, play the piano, write your own songs, or dive into the enchanting world of music production using Logic Pro X? Look no further!

Together, let's embark on a journey to tailor the perfect lesson content to your desires, ensuring that I can always provide exactly what you're looking for. Multiple interests? – then we can even combine various disciplines for a more enriching learning experience. The teaching material is infused with my personal experiences as a professional musician in the pop industry, insights from earlier classical piano and theory classes, singing lessons and the knowledge acquired from my studies at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam (Pop).

Expect a professional approach during the lesson, paired with a warm and distinctive learning experience crafted just for you.

Gita

5.0

(1)

Private lessons for beginners to advanced level of flute playing. All ages are welcome. I am a professionally trained teacher and flutist for almost two decades. My lessons are given in English, Spanish and (soon) Dutch.

My teaching method is variable depending on the students' needs, but the goal is shared: to make a great musician and qualified flutist out of the pupil. I work on both technical and musical aspects from a healthy and enjoyable perspective. Particular emphasis on having fun with the little ones!

I pay special attention to creating a personalized education and experience for every one of my students. I also give some additional tools applicable to the flute playing which includes: The Inner Game of Music, Feldenkrais, Alexander Technique and Body & Mind. All the basic theory is taught too.

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

Dimitra

5.0

(1)

Currently, I am studying Composition at the Conservatory of Amsterdam.

I have been playing guitar for more than 15 years and I have participated in music bands and live shows.

I am also working on electronic music through my laptop and hardware devices (synths, drum machines, etc)

I would be happy to teach you how to play the guitar, music theory tips, and some basic production skills!

In the beginning, we will work on your favorite songs. At some point, you will be able to make your songs and you will have the opportunity to record your ideas and share them with the public!

For the super young ones: We will start with easy tunes and then, we will work on your favorite songs!

- It is never too early or too late to learn an instrument!

- Music theory is a very important tool to go further in playing, don't be scared of it. You can do it!

-Guitar techniques to apply to your playing :)

- Interested in making your own music? I will help you to do it! Get your music online and don’t be afraid to share it! I will show you the basic ways to record and produce. It is the best feeling to share & listen to your own music.

If you are interested feel free to contact me! The available hours can be discussed and changed according to your availability.

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.

Enrico

5.0

(1)

Hello everyone, I'm Enrico and I come from Italy. Right now I am in Utrecht where I am doing a master's degree in cello under the guidance of Timora Rosler.
During my years of studies I always had the possibility to teach music, in fact while I was doing my Bachelor in Italy at the Conservatory of Turin, I taught cello and music theory in a private music school called "Isla de Musiqueros", in this school I had the opportunity to teach people of all ages, including children under 4 years old.
When I moved to the Netherlands little by little I started to find students and many many concerts.

I believe that playing is the best way to have fun and express your emotions, the work I want to do is work on tensions and try to help you melt away while playing, in this way you can have more sound and feel more free.
Technique is also very important in the everyday life of a musician, together we can see the best exercises for you, to help you improve and have more confidence with the instrument.

Mikolaj

5.0

(1)

In this class, we will be exploring music by learning your favorite songs from any genre you enjoy. I will personalize the lessons to your needs and make sure we cover all the fundamentals that will set you on the right track!

I will teach you how to:
- learn songs by ear, (pop, jazz r&b, funk, fusion, hip-hop, and whatever you like honestly)
- improvise,
- compose,
- understand music theory (harmony, rhythm, scales, progressions, sight-reading etc.)
- produce and sound design in any DAW

About me:

Education:
I started playing music at 7 years old, went through 12 years of music school, and then moved to Amsterdam and spent 4 years learning jazz guitar at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam. I frequently play with various bands ranging from Pop and Funk to Jazz Fusion and even Techno.

Teaching style:
I’m open-minded and straightforward, and I focus on giving my students the tools and basics they need to learn and explore on their own.

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.