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Synthwave Fundamentals -Kihon Learning Path

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About Course

This learning path is for the true beginner in synthwave and its goal is to teach you the fundamental concepts of synthwave. It will take you possibly a few months to work through all of this material, and most importantly, to practice the techniques and concepts contained herein. It mus be emphasized that just watching WILL NOT develop your skills. You have to DO and PRACTICE. Be patient!

This learning path does not cover mixing/mastering techniques nor how to turn a Main Stack (initial idea or 8-bar loop) into a full length track. That will be taught in separate learning paths.

When you complete this learning path, you’ll have completed Stage 1 of the Synthwave Warrior’s Journey and will be ready to start Stage 2.

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What Will You Learn?

  • You'll learn the fundamental components for making synthwave like a boss!

Course Content

The Synthwave Warrior’s Journey

  • Synthwave Warrior’s Journey
    09:19

The Rosetta Cube
Kihon is the Japanese word for “basic” or “the basics”. It represents the fundamental and basic techniques needed to become a martial artist. At Synthwave Dojo, the basics of synthwave are encapsulated in The Rosetta Cube framework.

Drums
In this section we’ll cover the basics of how to program simple, yet effective drum patterns for synthwave. We’ll also touch on drum fills and programming percussion.

Bass
In this section we’ll cover the basics of how to program simple, yet effective bass patterns for synthwave.

Chord Progressions
I’ll now take you through many ways to approach creating chord progressions for your synthwave tracks. After going through this section, you’ll be well equipped to write all the chord progressions you need for your music. Make sure to download the reference files in the Resources section.

Pads

Arpeggios

Melody
In this section I’ll take you through the basics of melody and how you can apply it to synthwave. There will be a great deal of theory as well as examples, so don’t worry if your music theory knowledge is basic or non-existent; I’ll go slowly. Feel free to use the comments sections in the lessons to ask any questions you need answered. Make sure to download the “Melody Reference” and “Composer Tools” eBooks in the Resources section.

Main Stack
This is the bedrock concept of how I teach to produce synthwave at Synthwave Dojo. The Main Stack is simply an 8-bar loop with 4-5 elements or layers that will serve as the foundation for any track. It’s the equivalent of the 8-bar loop every electronic music producer out there uses to start a track. The Main Stack contains the main idea (hook/lead) for your track. It’s not meant to contain all the parts you’d ever need to create a full arrangement. A typical Main Stack includes the following layers or parts -Drums -Bass -Lead / Hook -Arp, Chords, Pad (not necessarily all three but definitely at least one or two)

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JB
Justin Beach
7 months ago
I know Kung Fu!

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