For millions of people worldwide, music is one of the most important things in life. Whether you are happy or sad, excited or bored, music can always be there for you in many ways. At MUSTips, we recently explored how to maintain calmness throughout the day, and music is often key to this. Listening to calming sounds is one thing, although making music yourself can be even more soothing. Fortunately, there are countless ways to do so nowadays.
For example, many people write songs on their acoustic guitars or pianos. The possibilities for this have expanded dramatically as technology has improved, with modern DAWs and loop pedals enabling one person to do all the jobs of a traditional four-piece band. You can even make music on the move with various apps or portable instruments. Read on for a detailed exploration of how to do so.
About Traditional Music DAWs
Nowadays, most serious musicians looking to write and record their music will use DAWs. These are Digital Audio Workstations, basically complex computer programs enabling users to record sound and use digital things like MIDI. Famous examples of DAWs include Logic Pro, Ableton, Cubase, and Reason.
These programs are immensely popular but aren’t the best for music-making on the move. They will run comfortably on laptops, but what if you would rather not lug expensive technology around? Never fear, as there are many other options to try out.
Some of the Best Music-Making Apps
Mobile phones have had some degree of music-making apps for years. However, examples like Sony Ericsson’s Music DJ were relatively simple and didn’t allow for actual music playing. Times have changed, as there are several compelling music production apps you cannot miss nowadays. Here are our top picks:
- Native Instruments iMaschine 2: Native Instrument’s Maschine controllers are adored by beat smiths for the MPC-style controls and immense sampling capabilities. The company’s first iMaschine was a fantastic effort, but there were several niggles to iron out. The iconic German company set the record straight with iMaschine 2, which is by far the best mobile application for sampling and beat-making on the go. Sound On Sound thoroughly explores everything you need to know about this remarkable iOS program.
- Apple GarageBand: There are few DAWs better for beginners than GarageBand. The interface and layout are straightforward, with no fiddly bits or complex controls to get confused by. GarageBand for iOS was released in 2011, becoming a big hit. Undeniably the best music-making app for beginners looking to learn the ropes.
- Steinberg Cubasis: Steinberg is the company behind Cubase, one of the Big 3 alongside Logic Pro and Ableton. Cubasis is the mobile equivalent, first released for Apple devices in 2013. The mobile application gets more powerful with each iteration, offering a fully-fledged audio mixer and unlimited tracks. Just bear in mind it’s one of the more expensive options.
Portable Instruments to Consider
Mobile DAWs aren’t for everyone. If you’re looking for a more traditional way to make music on the move, why not consider some of the super portable instruments on offer nowadays? Here are a few common examples:
- Ukulele
- Harmonica
- Travel guitar
- Mandolin
Of course, one thing to bear in mind here is the inability to use headphones. Blasting out songs on your ukulele while on a busy commuter train may not be the best idea.
Other Ways to Enjoy Music on the Move
Let’s face it; not everybody is cut out for life as a musician. If you fail at making music, there are many alternatives to get stuck into instead.
For example, iconic music-inspired video games like Guitar Hero are available as mobile apps. Over two million fans have downloaded Guitar Hero III Mobile, so it’s obviously a winner. Furthermore, modern online slots have exceptional soundtracks, especially branded ones like NetEnt’s Jimi Hendrix. With seamless mobile gameplay, there aren’t many better ways to enjoy music-based entertainment on the move. Despite this, you still need to be careful. It is essential to only play the top-rated music slots on the most secure sites. Platforms like Vegas Slots Online are fantastic sources of knowledge, offering information on the best and different slots available, along with security guides and gaming tips. With tens of thousands of free slots, including those with musical themes, at your disposal. And remember, sometimes just putting a Spotify playlist on during your commute can be the easiest way to enjoy yourself.