THE ULTIMATE ONLINE
DIY MIDI CONTROLLER SCHOOL
Build any MIDI controller you can think of, improving drastically how you make music, while saving a lot of money on gear!
Watch the video below👇
The course, for me, was one of the best I found on the internet to date. (...) in a weekend I literally devoured the course, and in a week I had my first MIDI
controller ." Lucas Bressanin / Electronic Musician
WANT A FREE SAMPLE ?
The DIY MIDI Controller workshop
In this free workshop, you'll learn how to build your first MIDI controller! You'll have access to four classes where you'll learn how to build your first MIDI controller with buttons and potentiometers (knobs)!
WHY SHOULD YOU BUILD YOUR MIDI CONTROLLERS ?
Express yourself
Since you are here, I'm sure you love making music, or any type of art expression, right? So, have you ever wondered that you could make not only your music, but, also, the tools you use to make your music? And making them, the way you want it, would allow you to express yourself even more? And isn’t it music, art, all about expression? So, do it yourself, express yourself.
Boost you workflow
If you use your computer to make music I'm sure you have your favorite DAWs, plugins, synths, etc. So, what if you had at the tip of your fingers dedicated controllers to each of your favorite plugins, in their same configuration, same layout? Stop wasting your time having to decide how to map your generic controller, stop wasting your time looking where that filter knob is: make your own controllers that look exactly like your favorite plugins. It will make your workflow a thousand times better!
Save money
Building a MIDI controller is extremely cheap! Just to illustrate: for under US$40.00 you can build a complete launchpad with 16 arcade buttons. This controller in the market would cost you around US$200.00! Instead of buying one, make five! And the way you want it.
It's just the tip of the iceberg
Learning programming languages and electronics is just the tip of the iceberg. With this knowledge, you can do so much more than create MIDI controllers! You can easily learn other languages like C++, Java, or Python, and start exploring an infinite number of other projects. Transition from MIDI controllers to robotics, from art installations to web applications. This is undoubtedly one of the most valuable skills you can have in today's market!
see why you should build yours
Watch the video below👇
WHY SHOULD YOU BUILD YOUR MIDI CONTROLLERS ?
Express yourself
Since you are here, I'm sure you love making music, or any type of art expression, right? So, have you ever wondered that you could make not only your music, but, also, the tools you use to make your music? And making them, the way you want it, would allow you to express yourself even more? And isn’t it music, art, all about expression? So, do it yourself, express yourself.
Boost you workflow
If you use your computer to make music I'm sure you have your favorite DAWs, plugins, synths, etc. So, what if you had at the tip of your fingers dedicated controllers to each of your favorite plugins, in their same configuration, same layout? Stop wasting your time having to decide how to map your generic controller, stop wasting your time looking where that filter knob is: make your own controllers that look exactly like your favorite plugins. It will make your workflow a thousand times better!
Save money
Building a MIDI controller is extremely cheap! Just to illustrate: for under US$40.00 you can build a complete launchpad with 16 arcade buttons. This controller in the market would cost you around US$200.00! Instead of buying one, make five! And the way you want it.
It's just the tip of the iceberg
Learning a programming language and electronics is just the tip of the iceberg. With this knowledge you can do so much more than MIDI controllers! You can easily learn other languages, like C++, Java, Python, etc, and you can start adventuring in an infinity of other projects. Go from MIDI controllers to robotics, from art installations to web applications. For sure, this is one of the most valuables skills you can have in the market today!
Now that you know why you should build your own MIDI controllers, let me take you through our course, the Making Music with Arduino, the course that will teach you how you can make your own MIDI controllers and much more! So, let me tell you everything you should know about it: Watch the video bellow!
AND HERE YOU CAN SEE WHY
WHAT'S INSIDE THE NERD MUSICIAN PRO
All these courses are included in the "PRO" bundle
Learn how to build your MIDI
controllers without having to
learn how to code!
US$97
Learn everything about the
Arduino programming and write
your own codes!
US$97
Learn how to design and
manufacture your PCBs
(Printed Circuit Boards)!
US$97
Exclusive Offer: Save with the Nerd Musician Pro Bundle!
JOIN NOW WITH 32% OFF
You have the option to purchase each course individually for a total of $291. However, you can save 32% by opting for the complete package—the Nerd Musician Pro Bundle—for only $197!
WHAT'S INCLUDED?
The Nerd Musician Pro course bundle includes three courses:
MAKING MUSIC WITH ARDUINO
One of the standout features of our Making Music with Arduino course is that you don't need any prior coding experience! That's right—you'll learn how to build MIDI controllers without having to learn the Arduino programming language. We provide you with ready-to-use templates and straightforward instructions, so you can focus on bringing your musical ideas to life without getting bogged down in complex code.
You'll be able to:
- Build a Variety of MIDI Controllers: From simple button-based controllers to complex setups with multiple inputs and outputs.
- Use Provided Templates: Skip the coding and use our templates to customize your controllers to your liking.
- Focus on Creativity: Spend more time designing and less time worrying about programming details.
By eliminating the need to code, we've made the process accessible to everyone—even if you've never touched a line of code before. This means you can dive straight into the exciting world of DIY MIDI controllers and start making music your way.
What You'll Learn
🎛️ Buttons: Integrate tactile buttons into your MIDI controller for responsive control over your music.
🎹 Potentiometers (High Resolution or Standard): Use potentiometers to adjust parameters with precision, tailoring them to your specific needs.
🎛️ Expanding Inputs with Multiplexers: Learn how to increase your number of inputs to over 100 using multiplexers, massively expanding your controller's capabilities.
🎹 Rotary Encoders: Implement rotary encoders for smooth, endless rotation controls—perfect for navigating menus or adjusting continuous parameters.
🎛️ Banks: Create multiple banks to multiply your controller's functionality without adding extra physical components.
🎹 Addressable LEDs (Note Feedback): Add dynamic visual feedback to your controller with addressable LEDs that respond to your music in real-time.
🎛️ Normal LEDs (Note Feedback and VU Meters): Use standard LEDs for essential feedback like note indication and volume level monitoring.
🎹 Motorized Faders: Incorporate motorized faders for automated control movements, giving your controller a professional touch.
🎛️ MIDI over USB: Send MIDI data seamlessly over USB for easy connectivity with computers and other devices.
🎹 MIDI over Bluetooth: Make your controller wireless with Bluetooth MIDI, offering flexibility and freedom on stage or in the studio.
🎛️ MIDI over DIN Cable: Understand traditional MIDI connections using DIN cables for compatibility with a wide range of musical equipment.
🎹 Creating MIDI Class-Compliant Devices: Ensure your MIDI devices are plug-and-play across different platforms without the need for special drivers.
🎛️ Displays: Add screens to your controller to display vital information like settings, modes, or visual effects.
🎹 Designing and Fabricating Enclosures: Learn how to design and build custom enclosures, giving your project a polished, professional look.
🎛️ Materials and Where to Buy Them: Get insider tips on sourcing the best components and materials for your projects at affordable prices.
🎹 Troubleshooting: Develop essential problem-solving skills to diagnose and fix issues, ensuring your projects run smoothly.
🎛️ Advanced Code Generator: Generate ready-to-go code effortlessly with our Advanced Code Generator. No coding experience? No problem! Our tool does the heavy lifting for you, allowing you to focus on creativity.
🎹 Access to Our AI-Trained Bot: Gain access to our AI-trained bot to troubleshoot, write code, and much more. It's like having a personal assistant available 24/7 to help you overcome any challenge.
Bonuses
🎹 Access to Codes, Templates, and Designs: Get exclusive access to all my personal codes, templates, and design files. These resources will help you build a variety of MIDI controllers without the need to learn complex programming. Simply use my templates to customize your projects and bring your ideas to life effortlessly.
🎛️ Membership in Our Private Facebook/Discord Group: Join our closed Facebook community of like-minded "Nerd Musicians." Here, you can ask questions, share your progress, and collaborate with others who share your passion. It's a supportive environment where you can overcome challenges together and get inspired by the creativity of fellow members.
🎹 Direct Personal Support: You'll have my personal contact information for any assistance you might need. Whether you're stuck on a project or need advice on the next steps, I'm here to help you succeed every step of the way.
THE ARDUINO PROGRAMMING
Elevate your maker skills to new heights with our comprehensive course, "The Arduino programming". This is where you'll learn everything about Arduino programming in the context of music creation.
What You'll Learn
- Write Your Own Code: Gain the skills to develop custom Arduino programs from scratch.
- Insights into My Codes: Understand how I've written my own codes, providing you with practical examples and best practices.
- Decode Others' Codes: Learn techniques to read, interpret, and utilize code written by other programmers, expanding your collaborative potential.
By mastering the Arduino programming language, you'll unlock the ability to create anything that comes to your mind. Whether it's innovative MIDI controllers, interactive installations, or any other musical device, this course provides the tools you need.
Why Focus on Music?
While you'll learn the fundamentals of Arduino programming, the course emphasizes applications in music. This focus allows you to:
- Combine technical skills with artistic expression.
- Develop devices that enhance your musical performances.
- Explore new frontiers in sound and technology.
KICAD PCB DESIGN
Unlock the ability to design and manufacture your own Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) with our comprehensive KiCad PCB Design course—a 100% online program tailored to elevate your electronics skills.
What You'll Learn
- Design a PCB from Scratch: We'll guide you through designing a PCB step-by-step using KiCad, a powerful open-source software. From initial concept to finalized design, you'll see the entire process in action.
- Complete Fabrication Process: Understand how to take your design from digital files to a physical PCB. Learn about material selection, manufacturing options, and how to work with fabrication services.
- Accelerate Your Projects: Create electronic products faster by designing custom PCBs that perfectly fit your project's needs.
- Enhance Reliability: Build more reliable and efficient electronics by mastering professional PCB design techniques.
- Professional Aesthetics: Give your projects a polished, professional look that stands out, whether for personal satisfaction or commercial purposes.
By the end of this course, you'll have the confidence and skills to bring any electronic idea to life with your own custom-designed PCBs. This not only boosts the functionality and reliability of your projects but also adds a level of professionalism that sets your work apart.
A COUPLE THINGS YOU CAN BUILD...
WHAT THE STUDENTS ARE
SAYING AND BUILDING
AND SOME OF THEIR CONTROLLERS IN
ACTION!
WHAT THE STUDENTS ARE
SAYING AND BUILDING
AND SOME OF THEIR CONTROLLERS IN
ACTION!
BY GUSTAVO SILVEIRA
Gustavo Silveira is a composer, multimedia artist, and maker specializing in music technology. He holds degrees in Music Composition and Music and Technology from universities in Brazil and the United States.
Since 2015, Gustavo has been creating Arduino-based musical interfaces like MIDI controllers and synthesizers. He founded the blog Nerd Musician to share open-source projects and tutorials with a community of enthusiasts.
His creation, the XT Synth, was a finalist in the 2018 Guthman New Music Instrument Competition. He also worked at Ball State University's IDIA Lab, designing interactive audiovisual installations.
Gustavo has showcased his work at major Maker Faires and has been featured on platforms like Gearnews, DJ Tech Tools, and the official Arduino website. His blend of artistic vision and technical expertise makes him an ideal guide for exploring the world of music and technology.
BY GUSTAVO SILVEIRA
Gustavo Silveira is a composer, multimedia artist, and maker. Silveira holds a Bachelor's degree in music composition from the Federal University of Pelotas and a Master's degree in Music and Technology from Georgia Southern University in the United States.
Since 2015, Gustavo has been creating musical interfaces with Arduino, such as MIDI controllers and synthesizers, and has created the blog Músico Nerd, where he shares various open source projects and tutorials in the field.
In 2018, he was a finalist in the Guthman New Music Instrument Competition, the world's most important competition for new musical instruments, with the XT Synth. In 2019, he worked as a Human-Computer Interaction Electronics Designer at the IDIA Lab at Ball State University in the United States, creating interactive audiovisual installations.
Gustavo has presented his work as a maker at major Maker Faires such as the Bay Area Maker Faire in San Francisco and the World Maker Faire in New York, and his work has been featured on specialized websites such as Gearnews, DJ Tech Tools, and the Arduino website.
FAQ
When does the course start and finish?
The course starts now and it ends when you want! It is a completely self-paced online course – you decide when you start and when you finish.
How long do I have access to the course?
One time payment plan: How does lifetime access sound? After enrolling, you have unlimited access to this course for as long as you like – across any and all devices you own. Monthly plan: Pay monthly and have access as long as you wish, stop anytime you want.
What if I am unhappy with the course?
We would never want you to be unhappy! If you are unsatisfied with your purchase, contact us in the first 30 days and we will give you a full refund.
Will I get certificate?
Absolutely! Once you finish the course you’ll be automatically issued a certificate.
Do I have to have any experience with coding or electronics?
Not at all! The course is designed to go from the absolute basics to advanced. Classes are short and easy to understand throughout all the course.
How does the Making Music with Arduino differs from the DIY MIDI Controller Workshop and other free courses on the internet?
The Making Music with Arduino is THE ONLY course that focuses on teaching electronics and how to code, so you can have total independence in your musical projects. This course will make you a PRO MAKER, teaching you how you can write your own codes, understand other people’s codes and, also, will serve as the foundation for you to learn any other programming languages like C++, Processing (Java), Python, etc, and to get started with other electronic projects, like robotics, home automation, web applications, etc.
Can I take this course if I live outside the U.S.?
Yes, the course is available to international users!
30-DAY MONEY BACK GUARANTEE
Enrolling in the Making Music with Arduino
has ZERO RISK, you have a 30-day money
back guarantee. Your total satisfaction or
your money back, no questions, no
bureaucracy!
Enrolling in the Making Music with Arduino
has ZERO RISK, you have a 30-day money
back guarantee. Your total satisfaction or
your money back, no questions, no
bureaucracy!
CHOOSE YOUR PLAN
Basic
Start Learning
US$27
Lifetime Access
DIY MIDI CONtroller Workshop
Create Basic MIDI Controllers: Master the essentials by building MIDI controllers using buttons and potentiometers.
MAKER
Most Popular
US$97
or 2x US$39
Lifetime Access
Making Music with Arduino
Create Sophisticated Devices: Learn to build MIDI controllers with a diverse array of inputs and outputs, features, and sleek enclosures.
Customize Your Workflow: Design controllers that meet your specific requirements, enhancing your music production process.
NERD Musician Pro (32% Off)
Best Value
US$291 US$197
or 3x US$67
Lifetime Access
Making Music with Arduino
The Arduino Programming
Kicad PCB Design
Design Any MIDI Controller You Can Imagine: Bring your unique ideas to life by creating controllers that perfectly align with your musical vision.
Create High-Quality, Market-Ready Devices: Build professional-grade MIDI controllers that excel in both performance and aesthetics.
Unleash Your Creativity Without Limits: Empower yourself with coding and PCB skills to innovate freely, transforming your creative concepts into reality.
