10 Best Ableton Courses & Certifications Online In 2023

Discover the top 10 online Ableton courses and certifications for 2023, designed to elevate your music production skills from beginner to expert level, as we've analyzed and compiled the best options based on ratings, reviews, and learner experiences.

Amber Carey

(Updated April 20, 2023)

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Are you ready to dive into the world of Ableton Live and elevate your music production skills? Look no further, as we have meticulously researched and analyzed 248 popular Ableton courses from various providers, with a staggering 925,628 enrolled students who have left 62,847 ratings and reviews. Our evaluation process combined the best courses based on factors such as rating, reviews, enrollments, learner experiences, valuable and engaging content, comprehensive curriculum, release date, and affordability. With this compilation, we aim to provide unparalleled guidance to help you enhance your mastery in Ableton Live.

Owing to our extensive experiences and expertise, we have brought together the top 10 Ableton courses and certifications online, perfect for beginners, intermediate learners, and experts alike. No matter if you are looking to develop your skills in mastering Ableton Live quickly or aiming to become a proficient live looper, our expertly curated list caters to your diverse needs. Embark on your musical journey with confidence, and unlock new realms of creativity and innovation in your music production career.

Best Ableton Courses & Certifications

1. Introduction to Ableton Live

Best for mastering Ableton Live quickly

This comprehensive course introduces participants to the world of Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) with a specific focus on Ableton Live, a versatile and widely-used application in the music industry. Originally developed for use by audio engineers and catering to an exclusive clientele, DAWs have revolutionized the way music is created and recorded, making the technology accessible to a broader range of creators. As a powerful platform for those in professional, home, and mobile studio settings, as well as musicians and DJs, Ableton Live streamlines the process of engineering, producing, and writing music across numerous environments.

As part of this course, participants will delve into various aspects of Ableton Live, including MIDI programming, audio recording, warping and processing, looping editing, mixing, performing, file management, and troubleshooting. Designed as a starting point for users new to Ableton Live or DAWs in general, this three-week program imparts a strong foundation for utilizing Live's capabilities to transform musical concepts into polished recordings. With an emphasis on breaking down barriers and promoting a fearless approach to music technology, the course equips participants with the tools and skills necessary to make the most of Ableton Live. To facilitate learning, a free 30-day trial version of Ableton Live 10 is available for download at the beginning of the course.

Best for:

This course is excellent for those who want to become proficient in Ableton Live, covering MIDI programming, audio recording, warping and processing, looping editing, and mixing, allowing participants to transform their musical ideas into polished recordings.

Course overview:
Level All Levels
Students 78,437
Rating (4.8)
Duration 13h 0m
Platform Coursera
Institution Berklee
Price 7 days free trial
Subscription: $33.25/m annually, $59/m monthly

2. Live Looping with Ableton Live

Best for mastering live looping

This course enables music enthusiasts to unleash their creativity by learning the art of live looping using Ableton Live alongside CylphX Pro. Guided by the musical director, Daniel Mintseris, students will not only understand the basics of real-time music looping but also explore the power of pairing the sound of classic looping pedals with the flexibility of Ableton Live. By the end of the course, students will be able to create unique compositions by layering and stacking loops while comfortably navigating the software's interface.

Throughout the course, learners will be shown how to build an effective live looping setup to suit their musical personality, overcoming any technical limitations that their gear may present. Daniel Mintseris will share crucial tips and insights that will assist students in refining their workflow processes and creating a tailored performance set-up that will leave their audience captivated. Master the innovative technique of live looping with Ableton Live and elevate your music production skills to the next level.

Best for:

This course is perfect for those who want to become proficient in live looping with Ableton Live while learning to create unique compositions by layering and stacking loops. Students will also gain valuable insights on building an effective live looping setup and refining their workflow processes.

Course overview:
Level Intermediate
Students 20,255
Rating (4.53)
Duration 2h 48m
Platform LinkedIn Learning
Institution LinkedIn
Price 1 month free trial
Subscription: $19.99/m annually, $39.99/m monthly

3. Ableton Live 11 - Music Production in Ableton Live

Best for comprehensive music production skills

This comprehensive course is designed to guide you through the process of music production in Ableton Live 11, covering essential topics such as recording, editing, music mixing, songwriting, and music theory. With a step-by-step structure, the course ensures anyone, regardless of their experience, can dive into making music using this powerful digital audio workstation. As the course progresses into more advanced topics, students will deepen their skills and understanding of music production techniques, helping them unlock their full potential.

Created by professional music producers and educators, this course covers a wide range of topics such as session and arrangement views, recording and editing MIDI and audio, creating beats, mixing, automation, quantizing, warping, and exploring various instruments and effects available in Ableton Live 11. Beginners and intermediate users alike will benefit from the extensive knowledge shared by the instructors, as well as tips and tricks to build confidence and streamline their workflow. By the end of the course, students will have the skills and understanding needed to create, record, and edit their own music in Ableton Live 11, empowering them to pursue their passion for music production.

User review:

Thanks guys, it's a really well-explained and easy-to-follow course to understand and get going in Ableton Live. Thomas and Ian are brilliant instructors. The course goes into lots of intricate details on how to use the software correctly, with tons of hints and tips. I particularly liked, when per forming an action that it also covers problem-solving as a result of why certain things behave like they do. Then as a total bonus, provided two of the key components I wanted to study next, which is music theory and songwriting. Personally, haven't touched the Max for Live section as yet, but certainly looks in-depth. If you're a novice and want to get cracking in Ableton music production, then this course is spot-on. Highy likely to be referring back to the sections as I continue to progress with my ideas. Nice to be able to support local lads as well. Andy [1] ... Read More

Best for:

This course excels at providing a comprehensive understanding of music production in a powerful digital audio workstation, covering essential topics like recording, editing, mixing, and music theory. Students will deepen their skills and unlock their full potential with step-by-step guidance from professional music producers and educators.

Course overview:
Level All Levels
Students 20,540
Rating (4.73)
Duration 20h 39m
Platform Udemy
Instructor(s) Tomas George,Ian Alexander,Digital Music Masters
Price $14.99

4. Ableton Live I: The First Steps of Digital Music Production

This comprehensive course offers a 65-minute introduction to digital music production using the powerful and versatile Ableton Live software. Led by audio engineer, musician, and producer Brian Jackson, learners will be guided through a straightforward and engaging exploration of Ableton's interface, settings, and browsers. By the end of this course, students will be equipped with a solid understanding of audio clips, tracks, and scenes—vital components in digital music production.

One of the highlights of this course is a 15-minute captivating introduction to warping, a technique used to match the tempos of different audio tracks. Ideal for producers, musicians, sound designers or anyone interested in working with audio, this course provides the perfect foundation for mastering the essentials of Ableton Live. With skill-building projects such as warping three audio clips so they play at the same speed, students will gain hands-on experience in creating a steady tempo in the music they create, produce, or remix. A strong background in computer fundamentals and some familiarity with music production will ensure learners get the most out of this essential course.

Best for:

This course is ideal for those who are taking their first steps into digital music production using Ableton Live, providing a solid understanding of audio clips, tracks, and scenes, as well as an introduction to the warping technique.

Course overview:
Students 15,747
Duration 1h 8m
Platform Skillshare
Instructor(s) Brian Jackson Follow
Price 1 month free trial
Subscription: $165 per year

5. Ableton Live: Producing Electronic Music

Best for in-depth electronic music production

This course offers an in-depth exploration of professional techniques for producing and mixing electronic music using Ableton Live, guiding learners through an understanding of the basics of the Ableton interface and various approaches to making electronic music. Under the guidance of electronic music producer Nate Mars, the course covers significant Ableton fundamentals such as working with clips, warping, and effects. Furthermore, Nate showcases multiple techniques for programming drums—an essential foundation for any track—in a range of EDM genres, demonstrating the versatility of the software.

As the course progresses, learners are introduced to creating basslines with analog synthesis and lead synth sounds using Ableton Live's built-in Operator synth. The course delves further into the production process by explaining how to create and use samples, MIDI effects, and employ the new pad-based MIDI controller, Ableton Push 2, for production and mixing. In the final chapters, learners will explore ways to arrange tracks, utilize creative effects, mix tracks seamlessly, and make use of automation to finalize their mixes, ultimately taking their electronic music production to new heights.

Best for:

This course excels at teaching professional techniques for producing and mixing electronic music using Ableton Live, covering significant fundamentals and various approaches to making electronic music in multiple EDM genres.

Course overview:
Level Intermediate
Students 12,871
Rating (4.67)
Duration 3h 27m
Platform LinkedIn Learning
Institution LinkedIn
Price 1 month free trial
Subscription: $19.99/m annually, $39.99/m monthly

6. Ableton Live: Complete EDM Music Production in 3 Hours

Best for rapid EDM music production

This comprehensive course focuses on electronic dance music (EDM) production using Ableton Live, a popular digital audio workstation. Designed for music enthusiasts, DJs, and professional music producers alike, this course aims to quickly familiarize you with music theory, melody and chord making, as well as different techniques for efficient music production. Whether you're a beginner or already established in the industry, you'll learn valuable skills and unique methods developed by the instructor to create music rapidly and comprehensively.

Charlie Atom, the course instructor, has an impressive background in the world of music. With over 5 million plays on Spotify, a presence on Beatport Top 100, performances at the EDC Music Festival, and releases through Sony Music, you can trust in his expertise and experience. In just three hours, you’ll gain the competence and knowledge needed to make your first song while enhancing your understanding of music theory as it applies to electronic and pop music. Develop a more efficient workflow and organization for your sound library so you can focus on what truly matters - making incredible music.

User review:

very useful, interesting course. Well done. This course makes me enjoy this software a lot. Easy to listen at instructor voice and accent. five star!. I am already looking for more courses from this teacher [2] ... Read More

Best for:

This course is ideal for those who want to quickly develop a proficiency in electronic dance music (EDM) production using Ableton Live, gaining valuable skills and unique methods for efficient music creation. The instructor's impressive background in the industry ensures expert guidance in helping students create their first song within a short time frame.

Course overview:
Level Beginner
Students 10,029
Rating (4.84)
Duration 2h 56m
Platform Udemy
Instructor(s) Charlie Atom
Price $19.99

7. Ableton Live 11 Essential Training: The Basics

Best for learning Ableton Live essentials

Explore the world of music production with the Ableton Live 11 Essential Training: The Basics course. Perfect for individuals involved in audio recording, loop-based songwriting, and synth and sound design, this course will provide you with the tools and knowledge necessary to master Ableton Live 11. Led by music professor Rick Schmunk, this comprehensive training will guide you through setting up your system and navigating the Ableton Live user interface, as well as effectively utilizing the various views, the MIDI Editor, and recording and editing audio.

Alongside essential Ableton functions, this course offers valuable insight into the utilization of plug-ins, effects racks, the live mixer, and mapping techniques. Master the art of automating graphics, editing, and clips, with a special focus on real-time automation. To help ensure an efficient workflow, Rick also shares practical advice on managing your files and staying organized throughout the creative process. By completing this course, you'll be well-equipped to create extraordinary music in a wide range of styles using Ableton Live 11.

Best for:

This course is ideal for those looking to explore the world of music production, develop audio recording and loop-based songwriting skills, and master Ableton Live 11's user interface and essential functions.

Course overview:
Level Intermediate
Students 7,873
Rating (4.81)
Duration 9h 15m
Platform LinkedIn Learning
Institution LinkedIn
Price 1 month free trial
Subscription: $19.99/m annually, $39.99/m monthly

8. Ableton Live 11 in a Day - Learn Music Production in Ableton

Best for one-day Ableton mastery

This comprehensive course is designed to help you master Ableton Live 11, one of the most powerful music production software programs available, in just a single day. Through a series of engaging and informative lessons, you will learn everything you need to know about Ableton Live, including essential features such as Clip Envelopes, Automation, Warping Modes, and Session/Arrangement View. Ideal for both beginners and more advanced users, this course focuses on providing you with the necessary tools to produce music and create entire songs within the Ableton Live environment.

By participating in this course, you will not only gain a solid understanding of the Ableton Live software but also develop a thoughtful and efficient workflow for your music production. Your newfound knowledge and skills will enable you to create professional-quality tracks from scratch, further develop your production techniques, and become a more confident and accomplished music producer. Under the guidance of the experienced instructor, who has a successful track record of teaching and producing music, you will be well on your way to mastering Ableton Live 11 and taking your music production to new heights.

User review:

Review in the middle of course: Very clear and quick explanation of the program, however when doing courses i like to do every step as the instructor does so i can learn it completely, this is a problem when a student doesn't have access to various plugins or samples, which i don't understand why th e instructor was so keen on downloading samples from a site in the first place, other than that very good so far. Review after finishing course: Like stated previously, very quick and clear explanation of the interface and various knobs/effects/automations and much more which i wouldn't be able to get into without this course. I would still love if all the plugins/samples in the video the instructor uses could be easily accessible to students. Other than that, very well explained and exactly what i was looking for. Will definitely look for more courses from this instructor. [3] ... Read More

Best for:

This course is excellent for those seeking to gain proficiency in music production using Ableton Live 11 within just one day, covering essential features and helping students develop efficient workflows to create entire songs.

Course overview:
Level All Levels
Students 5,194
Rating (4.55)
Duration 2h 30m
Platform Udemy
Instructor(s) Martin Svensson,Music-Prod Education
Price $17.99

9. The Ableton Ultimate Producers Master Course

Best for complete Ableton Producers mastery

This comprehensive course is designed to teach you the ins and outs of Ableton, covering everything from the basics to advanced techniques. With over 140 videos and 15 hours of content, your instructor, Jason Timothy, will guide you through every aspect of the program. As an experienced artist who has achieved multiple chart-topping releases and best-selling author on music production, Jason's expertise ensures that you are getting high-quality instruction that he personally uses every day. Regardless of whether you are a complete beginner or an experienced Ableton user, this course will transform the way you approach music production.

Throughout the course, you will delve into various Ableton instruments, such as Operator, Impulse, Drum Racks, Simpler, Sampler, and Wavetable, as well as warping techniques, sound design basics, and Ableton's effects. Moreover, you will also explore DJing with Ableton Live and learn about the updates, instruments, and effects in Ableton 11. As one of the first Ableton coaches on the internet, Jason has trained countless students, including those who have become certified trainers themselves. By enrolling in this course, you'll gain invaluable knowledge to elevate your music production skills and unleash the full potential of Ableton.

User review:

I am happy what I learned from this course, even though I worked with ableton for some years (hobby) I still learned a lot new things that gave me new ideas and inspiration for my music. The lessons are structured pretty well and the course follows a logic that makes it easy to understand every par t of the program. Due to the nice voice of the tutor its easy to follow allong and keep your attention. Its a big course with over 140+ single videos that tackle every single aspect you can think of, after watching the video you should be definitly capaple of working with Ableton more efficiently. I would recommend this course if you are a beginner or intermediate such as me. [4] ... Read More

Best for:

This course is ideal for those seeking comprehensive instruction covering everything from basic to advanced Ableton techniques, ultimately transforming their approach to music production.

Course overview:
Level All Levels
Students 3,523
Rating (4.7)
Duration 18h 16m
Platform Udemy
Instructor(s) Jason Timothy
Price $19.99

10. Ableton Live 11 Masterclass: Complete Music Production Guide

Best for mastering Ableton Live 11

This comprehensive masterclass in music production using Ableton Live 11 serves as the ultimate guide for those looking to enhance their creative potential and expertise in digital audio workstations. Covering everything from the basics of navigating Ableton's interface to advanced sound design and MIDI manipulation techniques, this extensive course breaks down complex concepts into easy-to-understand lessons that cater to users of all experience levels, including those using Ableton Live 11 Suite, Lite, Intro, and even earlier versions.

With step-by-step instructions that delve deep into Ableton's tools, synths, and samples, this course fosters the development of crucial skills necessary for effective music production. Course participants will gain a solid foundation in the fundamentals of Ableton while also exploring advanced topics such as audio and MIDI effects, automation, and mixing strategies. By the end of the course, learners will have achieved mastery over Ableton's layout, features, and functions, empowering them to produce professional-quality songs and continue their growth as music producers.

User review:

Great!! I don't normally leave reviews, but I've always wanted to get into music, but the programs always seemed so intimidating. A couple years ago I decided to buy Ableton to force myself to learn, but it was just too overwhelming, and I was getting lost in youtube. I saw this course and I though t I'd give it a try, and HONESTLY I'M SO HAPPY THAT I DID! Like I'm actually making beats now and I can navigate the interface and understand what everything does. If you want to learn Ableton this is it! [5] ... Read More

Best for:

This course is ideal for those who seek to develop their creative potential and expertise in music production using Ableton Live 11, covering everything from fundamentals to advanced sound design and MIDI manipulation techniques.

Course overview:
Level All Levels
Students 1,015
Rating (4.78)
Duration 13h 11m
Platform Udemy
Instructor(s) Benza Maman,Julian Melanson,Leap Year Learning
Price $14.99

Compare Ableton Online Courses

Course Rating Cost
Introduction to Ableton Live
Best for mastering Ableton Live quickly
7 days free trial
Subscription: $33.25/m annually, $59/m monthly
Live Looping with Ableton Live
Best for mastering live looping
1 month free trial
Subscription: $19.99/m annually, $39.99/m monthly
Ableton Live 11 - Music Production in Ableton Live
Best for comprehensive music production skills
$14.99
Ableton Live I: The First Steps of Digital Music Production
Best for first steps in digital music production
1 month free trial
Subscription: $165 per year
Ableton Live: Producing Electronic Music
Best for in-depth electronic music production
1 month free trial
Subscription: $19.99/m annually, $39.99/m monthly
Ableton Live: Complete EDM Music Production in 3 Hours
Best for rapid EDM music production
$19.99
Ableton Live 11 Essential Training: The Basics
Best for learning Ableton Live essentials
1 month free trial
Subscription: $19.99/m annually, $39.99/m monthly
Ableton Live 11 in a Day - Learn Music Production in Ableton
Best for one-day Ableton mastery
$17.99
The Ableton Ultimate Producers Master Course
Best for complete Ableton Producers mastery
$19.99
Ableton Live 11 Masterclass: Complete Music Production Guide
Best for mastering Ableton Live 11
$14.99

How to choose best Ableton online course

Choosing the best Ableton course is crucial for any aspiring music producer. As a learner's guide, we want to make sure you have the necessary information to make an informed decision. In the context of the topic, there are several factors one should consider when selecting the most suitable course. First, understanding your user intent is critical, as it will help you align your goals with the course content. With that in mind, let's explore the key factors you should look out for when choosing an Ableton course:

  1. Targeted skill level: Consider courses that cater to your current proficiency in Ableton. A beginner should start with introductory courses, while advanced users can benefit from specialized and master-level classes.
  2. Course content: Check the course outline and ensure it covers topics that match your user intent. If you want to learn specific skills such as live looping or electronic music production, choose a course that focuses on those topics.
  3. Duration and commitment: Some courses offer a complete learning experience in a short amount of time, while others dive deeper into the subject matter. Choose one that fits your schedule and commitment level.
  4. Instructor's experience: Ensure the course instructor has adequate knowledge of the subject and is well-versed in both teaching methods and music production techniques. An experienced instructor will be able to effectively communicate complex concepts and guide you through the learning process.
  5. Reviews and ratings: Look for reviews from previous students to gauge the quality of the course. These will give you an idea of the instructor's teaching style and the effectiveness of the course material in meeting the user's intent.

By taking these factors into account, you can confidently choose the Ableton course that best aligns with your goals and will help you develop the skills necessary to excel in the world of music production.

Conclusion

Embarking on a journey to learn Ableton Live can be a life-changing experience for those looking to advance their music production skills. Whether you're taking the first steps in digital music production or aiming to become proficient in live looping, these top-rated courses are designed to help you in every aspect of your musical journey. In a short amount of time, you can become an expert in producing electronic music or even gain a complete understanding of Ableton Live 11. With the right guidance, perseverance and practice, nothing can hold you back from reaching your full potential as a music producer.

The power of music production lies in your hands, and with these comprehensive courses, your dreams of becoming an ultimate producer are within reach. Investing time in improving your craft demonstrates your passion and commitment to achieving greatness in the world of music. So don't wait any longer – dive into these expertly curated Ableton Live courses and prepare to unlock new gates of creativity and innovation in your music production journey. Success awaits those who dare to learn, so take the leap and make your mark in the industry today!

How much does an Ableton course cost?

The cost of an Ableton course varies depending on the platform and pricing structure. Some platforms, such as Coursera and Skillshare, offer monthly or annual subscriptions ranging from $165 per year to $59 per month, including free trials, whereas Udemy courses have a one-time fee ranging from free to $84.99.

How long do Ableton courses take?

The duration of Ableton courses can vary greatly, ranging from a couple of hours to 20h or more. Depending on the course and platform, the time required for completion may differ. Some courses are designed as self-paced learning experiences, while others may have structured schedules and deadlines.

What skills can I gain from taking an Ableton course?

By taking an Ableton course, you can gain skills in various aspects of music production, such as creating, recording, mixing, and mastering your tracks. You will also learn about essential techniques, MIDI sequencing, audio processing, and live performance using Ableton Live. Moreover, you can develop a deeper understanding of sound design, music theory, and electronic music production techniques.

  1. Andy D (February 20, 2023). "Ableton Live 11 - Music Production in Ableton Live". Udemy. Retrieved April 20, 2023
  2. Hg sysit (March 7, 2022). "Ableton Live: Complete EDM Music Production in 3 Hours". Udemy. Retrieved April 20, 2023
  3. Denis Kronika (April 9, 2020). "Ableton Live 11 in a Day - Learn Music Production in Ableton". Udemy. Retrieved April 20, 2023
  4. Alexander Rudolph (July 12, 2020). "The Ableton Ultimate Producers Master Course". Udemy. Retrieved April 20, 2023
  5. Jamie Mason (January 6, 2023). "Ableton Live 11 Masterclass: Complete Music Production Guide". Udemy. Retrieved April 20, 2023