The first step in becoming a music producer is selecting the most appropriate college to attend. Schools such as Berklee College of Music, Tisch School of the Arts at NYU, and Full Sail University are certainly at the forefront of the recording arts colleges but there are many other colleges that offer classes and degree programs in music production. While online recording arts courses are essential, becoming a producer requires supplemental knowledge that can only be learned through hands-on training in a multi-track recording studio.
Although a degree in music production is not a requirement for most recording industry production jobs, obtaining a degree is advisable and beneficial.
Coursework in music composition, theory and arranging provides basic knowledge about songwriting and arranging. Knowing music history is also important in order to get an overview of how modern music has evolved. Knowledge of other related industries such as film (since soundtracks accompany almost all films) and radio and television broadcasting can be very helpful. Courses in music history are important so producers can learn about various genres that have been popular in the past as well as knowing about how specific genres (e.g., hip-hop, rock, pop, country music) are produced and arranged.
Contemporary sound recording involves the use of sophisticated audio mixing, editing, streaming audio and production equipment. This requires obtaining knowledge about what technology is being used in studios for audio production, how to use it and programming of electronic musical instruments. Producers also need to learn about microphones, audiology and how to interact with studio personnel. Students will learn about the use of digital audio workstations (DAW), MIDI and ProTools software programs.
Top record production schools provide an overview of the recording industry, trade associations, music rights licensing organizations, intellectual property rights and entertainment law. Producers also need to know labor laws and about labor unions (such as the musician's union), business and artist management and business finance principles. Coursework should include classes in intellectual property law, contract law, how royalties are calculated, performance rights and copyright law. Many songs today use "sampling," which is the use of previously recorded recordings. This practice requires the ability to obtain the right to use samples from previously copyrighted material.