Everyone has to start somewhere, and even the most profound producers once spent their evenings experimenting with synths to understand the basics. Some knowledge of music theory definitely helps, but new technology means that music making is more accessible than ever before.
We often discuss independent apps for music making here on Musical Android, but with so much technical jargon, and so many complex programs available, I understand it can be difficult for newbies to ever make a start.
Yet there are many reasons why you should learn to make music, even if it’s new to you. There's no better feeling than creating something for yourself, and music is an excellent road to self expression. Think of the joy of replacing your gaming music playlist with tracks that you yourself have made!
Thankfully, there are a number of inexpensive (or free) Android apps that are suitable for those who are looking to have a little twiddle and make some beats.
SunVox is a cross-platform modular synth with a pattern-based track sequencer. It’s also a complete Android app for music making. Very popular since its release in 2008, it’s considered one of the most powerful music making tools available for Android users, and is undergoing constant improvements.
SunVox is not exactly purely an app for beginners. Indeed, it is more than possible for a musical mind to create beautiful sounds and captivating tracks using nothing but the app. It can also be integrated into more complex setups as part of a professional studio setup.
Yet SunVox strikes a balance between its depth and simplicity, and the interface is relatively easy to use. Even a beginner could tweak a modular, and link them together in order to create musical patterns. With some practice and learning, this app could take you from zero knowledge to capable producer.
Music Maker JAM gives complete beginners the opportunity to create their own music on Android devices with no initial costs. Users can add instruments, beats and melodies, and studio-quality loops, apply effects and even record vocal elements. These can be combined on eight channels for a neat little homemade mix.
Okay, I'm going to be honest with you here. This isn't an app that many of the professionals or die-hard music producers will be using any time soon. For those with knowledge of electronic music production this is a no-go. Yet for the first-timer, it’s perfect!
As soon as you progress in production, you will be looking for an app that offers more options and room for creative expression. But if you are new to music, there is perhaps no better place to start. Get jamming and make some hip-hop, dance and rock tunes, and then have some fun and share them on social media.
There are many more apps that I could have suggested for beginners to make music on, but I went with FL Studio Mobile for its intuitive feel. The app is still complex and offers plenty of possibility for beginners and advanced musicians alike. It’s entirely possible to create entire tracks using the app.
FL Studio features synths, samplers, drum kits, loop beats, virtual piano and drumpads, a step sequencer, audio recording, a piano roll and numerous effects. If none of that means anything to you then just jump on-board and have a go!
Making music is one of the biggest joys in my life, and something that I want to share with as wide an audience as possible. If you have never produced electronic music before then now is the time. You can do so using simple Android apps that are relatively easy to understand. Of course, you may still need the occasional YouTube tutorial!