Music Education is Evolving: Ableton Move in the Classroom
Image Source: Ableton
Music education is undergoing an evolution, with technology becoming a central tool in how students learn, create, and enjoy music. Music class is no longer limited to traditional instruments, practicing scales and learning to read sheet music, and Digital Audio Workstations are reshaping the landscape of K-12 music programs.
One of the most exciting advancements in this space is Move, a new music creation tool from Ableton that brings both accessibility and creativity to music education in ways never before possible.
Connecting Tradition and Technology
Historically, music education has focused primarily on traditional instruments, music theory and ensemble performance, with limited emphasis on project-based creativity. The creation of original music is often overlooked, and contemporary genres like hip-hop and electronic music remain largely underrepresented in the classroom.
Ableton Move offers new opportunities for an instrumental focus, with a modern, portable, and intuitive instrument. This versatile music-making device empowers both students and professionals to create original music, whether or not they have access to a computer. Already making an impact in classrooms worldwide, Move is redefining how music creation is taught and experienced.
High school students using Ableton Move
Ableton Move in a High School Classroom
Ian Ellison, YPG’s Digital Content Manager and Instructor, experienced the transformative power of using Ableton Move in the classroom during a pilot program partnership between Ableton and Young Producers Group. He writes:
“YPG curricula emphasize fostering student creativity, and Move is an ideal tool to support this approach. Move offers a novel but still Ableton-informed approach that moves music making into the physical realm. [Ableton] Push obviously offers a lot of the same opportunities, but its super deep functionality can sometimes overwhelm students. Push and Live are both infinite playgrounds while Move has more helpful limitations and scaffolds built in.
It is also a great device for instrumentalists who already have knowledge about theory and musicianship, but might be new to music production. The Chromatic Mode for Notes Mode mirrors a guitar or bass in a way that is very easy for string players to grasp. For those that are more new music theory, we see the pads on Move as a much more dynamic and approachable way to learn than many other physical and digital sequencers. Toggling between Scale and Chromatic Modes offers flexibility and important scaffolds for learners at any level.
Move is a tactile and effective device for teaching music production concepts in a fun and engaging way. Students can seamlessly transition from recording to step sequencing, FX processing, and performing within minutes. Move simplifies complex processes into an intuitive and streamlined workflow. For many of our students, who primarily produce music on computers and have limited experience with hardware, using Move was a refreshing change. We can see it being an invaluable addition to any lesson or topic in the classroom!”
High school students using Ableton Move
Young Producers Group x Ableton
Ableton Live is the centerpiece of YPG’s Music Production 2 Curriculum, showcasing its versatility as both a learning and creative tool for K-12 students and teachers.
Watch YPG’s Executive Director, Lawrence Grey, discuss how Ableton Live fosters creativity and empowers middle and high school students to create original music.
Ableton Education Access Seats
Ableton has recently launched a new educational offer: Education Access Seats. Education Access Seats offer a flexible, centrally managed way to provide Live 12 Suite. With this model, you can link student Ableton accounts to the school’s license, allowing students to download and authorize Live on their personal computers without accessing the school’s account. Administrators can revoke and reassign seats as needed, ensuring efficient license management. Learn more about Ableton Live’s educational offerings here.
The Future of Music Education
The evolution of music education is happening now, and the Ableton Move is just one of the many innovative tools on the market for students and teachers. By embracing technology, educators can encourage creativity and better prepare students for successful careers in the music industry.
