Music Production 1
A year-long, standards-aligned curriculum that makes modern music production accessible for beginners.
CTE Introductory Course
Grades: 4-12
Software: Soundtrap (Chromebook, Mac, PC)
Cost: $2,000/year (includes Music Appreciation)
Get FREE access to Units 1 & 2 and test out Music Production 1 in your classroom now!
Curriculum Overview
This innovative curriculum breaks down the core concepts of music production in a way that is approachable and engaging for students at any level. Students will learn the ins and outs of Soundtrap, create original productions, cultivate their artistic voice, and contribute as members of a creative community.
The Music Production 1 Core Curriculum includes Key Concept Videos, In the Studio Videos, and Basics of the Basics Videos, all supported by glossaries, assessments, and assignments. Together, these materials form the backbone of a year-long course, guiding students step-by-step through essential music production skills. We also provide a rich selection of supplemental resources, giving teachers tools for differentiation, backup options if Soundtrap goes down, and flexibility to meet the unique needs of their students.
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Categorizing sounds (high, mid, low) and learning the Soundtrap interface.
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Combining high, mid, and low sounds into larger pieces of music.
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Placing sounds on a grid to create patterns.
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Writing rhythms with subdivisions, syncopation, and space.
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Building scales, chords, and writing melodic and harmonic parts.
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Arranging music into multiple sections and experimenting with form
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Capturing instruments, voices, and found sounds with microphones.
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Using volume and effects to balance and blend layers.
Young Producers Group is the official Soundtrap curriculum partner!
Young Producers Group is the official Soundtrap curriculum partner!
High-Quality Video
Each unit begins with a Key Concept video that zooms out to frame the essential concept of the unit on a macro level. Each Key Concept video is paired with clear instructional demonstrations that show how to apply those ideas within the browser-based digital audio workstation Soundtrap.
The video lineup includes:
12 Key Concept Videos
11 In The Studio Videos
6 Basics of the Basics Videos
25 Assignments with Demo Videos
9 Activity Demo Videos
Key Concept:
Sounds
In this video from Unit 1, Sounds, we take a look at the YPG Curriculum Band to describe how low, mid, and high sounds come together as layers to create a larger piece of music.
Key Concept:
Layers
In this video from Unit 2, Layers, students explore how different sounds work together as layers to create a complete piece of music. Using the band setup as a framework, the lesson examines the roles of drums, bass, vocals, and other instruments across low, mid, and high frequencies.
Unmatched Teacher Resources & Support
Teachers receive a comprehensive, digital Teacher’s Handbook to help set up and maintain a productive atmosphere where students feel safe to explore their creativity, respond to peers’ work, and connect their projects to the world around them.
The handbook includes:
Detailed pacing guide
Grading rubrics for each assignment
Pedagogy guides
In-depth, grade-specific instructional techniques