A standard string orchestra is based on the string quartet; Violin I, Violin II, Viola, and Cellos, with the addition of Contrabasses on the low end. In this series on arranging for strings, we'll look first at how to take an existing four-part harmonization and have it effectively performed by a string orchestra. And second, we'll learn how to use that same foundation to create more interesting variations.

It's an amazing thing to be able to move an audience with a carefully crafted song or melody, giving them a taste of your own emotions and experiences. To be able to do that effectively is a real gift, but a gift that needs to be developed.

Creating a unique song involves multiple steps—crafting lyrical ideas, expressing those lyrics through a memorable melody, working on the song harmonically and rhythmically, giving the song an appropriate structure, and honing all of those elements until it's perfect. Skill is required... and patience! Here is a range of tutorials from basic to advanced that explain it all.

I’ve been involved in audio production for well over 12 years, but just like everybody else I had to start somewhere. However, I didn’t have the benefit of having somebody show me everything there was to know for a beginner just starting out. In this series I’ll give you the helping hand I didn’t have when I was first starting out.

This series focuses on showing complete beginners how to write a simple song. It will focus predominantly on the process of writing a song, rather than the specific software and hardware techniques, skills and applications you might need in the recording, mixing, and mastering of that song.

People have been notating music for four thousand years - today it remains an essential skill for every musician. Here is a collection of tuts and articles that will help you read and write chord charts, guitar tab, and sheet music.

Are you an aspiring songwriter? We have something just for you. West Latta begins a brilliant new series on songwriting and production where he speaks from the heart from his own experience. This week he begins with techniques to cultivate creativity in your songwriting.