Learn to program drums.
A complete 70+ lesson course covering rhythm, sampling, arrangement, genre vocabulary, timing, and influential drum machines. Study each topic through focused listening and guided production exercises using Dubspot Groove directly in your browser.
- Course format
- 70+ lessons · self-paced
- Launch offer
- $49.50 (50% off $99)
- Free lessons
- Lessons 1 and 2
Current and forthcoming courses.
Start with Drum Programming and Groove Production. Music Foundations and Theory and Composition are in development.
Drum Programming and Groove Production
Rhythm, Timing, Sampling, and Arrangement
Theory and Composition
Music Theory and Composition for Producers
Music Foundations
Essential Musical Skills for Producers
Each lesson combines listening, programming, and feedback.
Listen for a specific relationship, such as backbeat placement, hi-hat density, or swing timing. Program that relationship, compare your pattern with the exercise target, and revise it by ear. Reference recordings support analysis; course exercises use original patterns and independently produced practice audio.
A repeatable six-stage practice process.
The sequence moves from guided analysis to independent programming.
- 01
Listen
Identify the pulse, drum voices, and musical role of the part.
- 02
Isolate
Focus on one drum voice or timing relationship at a time.
- 03
Predict
Write or tap the pattern before viewing the exercise target.
- 04
Program
Build the part on the grid with progressively less guidance.
- 05
Revise
Change placement, dynamics, sound, or timing and compare the result.
- 06
Export
Save the pattern or export WAV and MIDI for further production.
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Drum Programming and Groove Production · 70+ lesson course · Lessons 1 and 2 free