The Lodge Academy - Interview with student Kenny Engelau

The Lodge Academy in Indianapolis launched The Ableton Music Producer Program in 2016 with great success. During the course, students spend 3 months in a world-class recording studio learning professional audio engineering, music production, and live performance using today's advanced digital and analog gear.

This week I chatted with one of the graduates, Kenny Engelau to get his perspective on the class and his life as a music producer moving forward.

What was your favorite part of the class?

I think my favorite part of the class would have to be learning the many creative possibilities with Ableton, specifically using Session View. The workflow of song building is different that other music software, and it feels very natural in Session View. It makes it easier to find transition points in a song.

What surprised you about the class?

Before the class I didn't realize how much I didn't know about sound creation and mixing. I will use what I have learned for the rest of my life!

Did you consider other music education options?

Yes, I researched many music schools from California to New York, and many were unreachable both in tuition expenses and living costs. The Lodge offers a great class that is affordable, it covers a lot, and teaches a professional industry standard DAW- Ableton Live.

How was your live performance for the graduation event?

My live performance was actually a little shorter than I had planned. I really enjoyed mixing electronic-style music with a rock feel using my bass guitar. It was a new experience for me, as I have never performed music solo before, I was always part of a band.

Has the class changed the way you approach writing music?

After my time in the Ableton Music Producer Program, I have found that it is much easier for me to write and record songs. A pre-thought idea isn't even necessary with Ableton. I mostly just open my DAW and let inspiration come to me. Before Ableton, I thought there wasn't much to electronic music; sampling some vocals, add a beat, and there ya go. I now realize that there is so much more to it from the sound design to the song design itself.

What are your future plans with what you've learned?

With my new found knowledge, I plan on working as hard as I can to have a career in the music industry, whether it be jingles for TV commercials or making my own music with a band, or even becoming a Session Musician.

*Here is a video highlight of Kenny performing at The Graduation Event for the class.