Guitar Technology for Practice, Performance, and Production

John Scotti Shaun Michaud

Authored by John Scotti, Shaun Michaud

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Course Code: OGUIT-111

Learn to integrate guitar technology into practice, live performance, and music production. This undergraduate guitar course covers DAWs, amp modeling, MIDI, effects processing, and recording workflows, helping you create professional guitar tones, produce polished tracks, and deliver performance-ready audio and video content.

Level 1
Foundational
Modality
Online
Duration
12 Weeks
3-Credit Tuition
$1,575
Semester Starts
June 29
Accreditation
NECHE

Key Learning Outcomes

  • Integrate modern guitar technology into practice, live performance, and recording workflows
  • Design and produce professional-quality guitar tones using amp modeling, effects processing, and signal routing
  • Record, edit, mix, and master guitar-based productions using industry-standard DAW techniques
  • Configure and optimize live performance setups using MIDI, pedalboards, and real-time control systems
Overview Syllabus Requirements Instructors Related Music Career Roles
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Course Description

Technology is an essential tool for every guitarist navigating today's rapidly evolving music landscape. This course equips developing guitarists like you with the skills and knowledge to integrate cutting-edge technology into your practice, performance, and recording workflow, empowering you to shape your unique musical journey.

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You will explore a wide range of digital tools, from digital audio workstations (DAWs) and amp modeling software to multi-effects processors, MIDI controllers, and wireless systems. Through hands-on projects, you will learn how to craft professional-quality tones, record and mix your own music, and synchronize high-quality audio with video.

The course also introduces AI-driven music software, guitar-related applications, and advanced techniques for both electric and acoustic guitar. Whether you are looking to refine your live sound, streamline your recording process, or harness emerging music technology, this course provides the foundation to elevate your playing and creative potential.

Over 12 weeks, you'll move from configuring a DAW and shaping tones through amp modeling to working with live performance setups, studio production workflows, and MIDI integration. The course culminates in a comprehensive final project in which you produce, mix, and present a fully realized original guitar recording synchronized with video.

By the end of the course, you will be able to:

  • Integrate modern digital tools into guitar practice, live performance, and recording workflows to enhance efficiency, creativity, and sound quality
  • Set up and configure a digital audio workstation (DAW) for guitar-focused production by applying signal flow concepts, gain staging, and session organization techniques
  • Develop and refine professional-quality electric and acoustic guitar tones using amp modeling software, effects processing, and signal routing strategies
  • Record, edit, mix, and master guitar-based productions by applying industry-standard techniques for tracking, processing, and finalizing audio
  • Synchronize high-fidelity guitar recordings with video content for promotional, educational, and artistic applications
  • Utilize MIDI, AI-driven tools, and digital effects to enhance guitar performance and production, expanding creative possibilities in various musical contexts
  • Optimize live performance setups through MIDI integration, pedalboard configuration, and real-time effect control for performances
  • Prepare and deliver professional-quality guitar recordings for collaboration, distribution, and performance, ensuring compatibility with industry standards
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Syllabus

Lesson 1: Configuring a DAW for Guitarists

  • Recording Rig
  • DAW Connectivity Primer
  • The Evolution of Studio and Guitar Technology
  • Studio Signal Flow
  • Digital Audio for Guitarists: The Basics
  • Essential DAW Functions
  • Guitarist's Template
  • Audio Importing, Monitoring, Basic Mix, and Exporting
  • Assignment 1: DAW Configuration and Signal Flow

Lesson 2: Tone Shaping and Amp Modeling

  • Roots of Tone and Guitar Gain
  • Roots of Tone–Guitar Types
  • Roots of Tone–Amplifiers and Tone Controls
  • The Evolution of Sound Shaping and Amp Simulation
  • The T³ Framework–Track, Tone, and Texture
  • Introduction to AmpliTube–Interface and Signal Chain
  • Assignment 2: Custom Tone Design and Amp Modeling

Lesson 3: Tremolo, Reverb, Speaker Cabinets, and Live Meeting Audio

  • Sonic Reflections–Tremolo Sets the Electric Guitar in Motion
  • Sonic Reflections–The Rise of Echoed Guitar Tones
  • Roots of Tone–Speaker Cabinets and Microphone Techniques
  • Picture-Perfect Sound–Audio/Video Sync for Guitar Sessions
  • Optimizing Your Audio Signal Path for Live Meetings (Zoom)
  • Setting up an Aggregate Audio Device for DAW + Zoom
  • Assignment 3: Tone Design with Reverb, Tremolo, and Live Audio Configuration

Lesson 4: Tech Tools for Guitar Practice

  • Building a Goal-Based Practice Workflow
  • Moises AI Core Features and Interface
  • Moises AI Track Separation
  • Ear Training Frameworks–Song Form, Harmony, Melody, Grooves, and More
  • Audio-to-MIDI Conversion in Logic Pro Using Flex Pitch
  • Practice Exercise: Transcription and MIDI Sketch from a Reference Recording
  • Assignment 4: Technology-Enhanced Practice Session

Lesson 5: Live Performance Technology for Guitarists

  • Multi-Effects Processors and Pedalboard Design
  • Wireless Guitar Systems
  • In-Ear Monitoring Systems
  • MIDI Controllers for Live Performance
  • Real-Time Effect Switching and Program Changes
  • Assignment 5: Live Performance Rig Design

Lesson 6: Studio Production Workflows for Guitarists

  • Professional Tracking Techniques: Gain Staging and Mic Placement
  • Recording Electric Guitar with Amp and Microphone
  • Recording Direct with Amp Modeling
  • Session Organization and Template Customization
  • Introduction to Editing–Comping, Timing, and Tuning
  • Assignment 6: Multi-Track Guitar Recording Session

Lesson 7: Integrating Guitar Tech for Practice

  • Designing a Technology-Enhanced Practice Routine
  • Using DAW Playback Features for Targeted Skill Development
  • AI Practice Tools–Slow-Down, Loop, and Pitch Detection
  • Backing Track Creation and Loop Programming
  • Assignment 7: Technology-Integrated Practice Plan

Lesson 8: Integrating Guitar Tech for Live Performance

  • Building and Configuring a Performance-Ready Signal Chain
  • MIDI Integration for Live Setups–Backing Tracks and Click Tracks
  • Pedalboard Configuration and Real-Time Effect Control
  • Troubleshooting Common Live Performance Technology Issues
  • Assignment 8: Live Performance Technology Setup

Lesson 9: Integrating Guitar Tech for Studio Production and Final Project Preparation

  • Advanced Tracking–Double-Tracking and Layering Techniques
  • MIDI Drum and Bass Programming for Guitar Productions
  • Mixing Strategies for Guitar-Based Productions
  • Introduction to Video Production for Musicians
  • Final Project Brief and Planning Session
  • Assignment 9: Final Project Demo and Production Plan

Lesson 10: Sonic Craftsmanship: Tone, Texture, and Layering

  • Sound Design Principles for Guitarists
  • Creating Tonal Contrast–Clean vs. Driven, Bright vs. Dark
  • Layering Techniques: Rhythm, Lead, Harmony, and Melody Tracks
  • Stereo Width and Depth in Guitar Mixes
  • Assignment 10: Layered Guitar Production

Lesson 11: Applying Tonal Variations and Sound Shaping Techniques

  • Advanced EQ, Compression, and Effects for Guitar
  • Mastering the Guitar Mix–Balance, Clarity, and Translation
  • Audio/Video Synchronization for Final Project Delivery
  • Exporting Stems and Multi-Format Delivery
  • Assignment 11: Refined Mix and Video Sync

Lesson 12: The Future of Guitar Tech and Final Project Revision

  • Emerging Technologies for Guitarists–AI, Extended Reality, and Beyond
  • The Evolving Role of Technology in Guitar Performance and Production
  • Final Project Revision and Refinement
  • Closing Reflection: Applying Guitar Technology in Your Career
  • Assignment 12: Final Project Revision and Reflection (Culminating Experience)

Requirements

Prerequisites and Course-Specific Requirements 

Prerequisite Courses, Knowledge, and/or Skills
Completion of Music Theory 101, or equivalent knowledge and experience, is required. Students should be able to:

  • Play and manipulate electric guitar tones through an amplifier
  • Demonstrate basic electric guitar tones and techniques
  • Have the basic ability to read music and/or tablature in common time signatures
  • Have experience recording in a digital audio workstation (DAW) such as Pro Tools, Logic, or GarageBand

Recording

  • Students are required to record video while performing with a backing track for their assignments. Options for recording video include:
    • Smartphone
    • Digital camera
    • Webcam (using either video recording software, or the video recording tool that is built into the learning environment)

Software

  • Digital Audio Workstation (DAW).
    • Logic Pro 11 is highly recommended since most course examples are shown within Logic Pro 11.
    • If opting not to use Logic, a Full-featured Digital Audio Workstation (DAW), such as Pro Tools (Studio or Ultimate), Cubase Pro, Ableton Live (Suite or Standard), Reaper, Reason, or FL Studio (Producer or Signature) is acceptable. Note that GarageBand is not acceptable.
  • Amp Modeler
    • AmpliTube 5 or Max is highly recommended since most course examples are shown using AmpliTube 5.
      • Student discount available after enrolling
    • Students may use other modelers such as Axe FX, Kemper, Helix, or AmpliTube 4 Deluxe.
  • Moises AI (Premium or higher) 
    • Note: Once the course begins, students will have access to a free trial for the duration of the course.

Instrument

  • Electric guitar
  • Guitar amplifier
  • Instrument cable
  • Recommended: Acoustic guitar

Hardware

Important Technical/System Considerations

  • Note: Logic Pro and AmpliTube are strongly recommended. If you choose to use a different DAW or amp modeling software, you will be responsible for consulting the appropriate documentation and adapting your setup to match the template standards we use in Logic Pro and AmpliTube.

Student Deals
After enrolling, be sure to check out our Student Deals page for various offers on software, hardware, and more. Please contact support@online.berklee.edu with any questions.

General Course Requirements

Below are the minimum requirements to access the course environment and participate in Live Classes. Please make sure to also check the Prerequisites and Course-Specific Requirements section above, and ensure your computer meets or exceeds the minimum system requirements for all software needed for your course. 

Mac Users

  • macOS Monterey 12.0 or later

PC Users

All Users

  • Latest version of Google Chrome
  • Zoom meeting software
  • Webcam
  • Speakers or headphones
  • External or internal microphone
  • Broadband Internet connection

Instructors

John Scotti
John Scotti

Author

John Scotti boasts extensive experience as a guitarist in both tribute and original bands across New York, Colorado, and Massachusetts. Having toured nationally and internationally, John is a versatile performer and a skilled recording engineer and producer. Currently, Scotti holds a key role as an educator at Berklee College of Music, actively shaping curriculum for Berklee Online. His dual career underscores a commitment to both music performance and education.

Shaun Michaud
Shaun Michaud

Author

Shaun Michaud is a Berklee graduate who has been teaching at the school for more than 25 years. The music he has written has appeared on TV on The History Channel, and in films such as Movie 43 and November Criminals. He has written, recorded, and produced five albums, two of which were released on the Inside Out label. Working as a recording engineer for more than a decade, he has hundreds of recording and mastering credits in the classical music genre for Parma Recordings.

What's Next?

When taken for credit, Guitar Technology for Practice, Performance, and Production can be applied towards the completion of these related programs:

Related Certificate Programs

Related Degree Major

Related Music Career Roles

Employers look for skills learned in this course, when hiring for the following music career roles:

Digital Content Producer

General Business Musician (Freelance Musician)

Recording Artist (or Group)

Session Musician

Songwriter-Producer

Questions?

Contact our Academic Advisors by phone at 1-866-BERKLEE (U.S.), 1-617-747-2146 (INT'L), or by email at advisors@online.berklee.edu.

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