From Studio to Stage - Building an Ableton Live Set
With AV FREYA
How do you turn your tracks into a live performance using Ableton Live? This hands-on workshop guides you through the complete process of creating an Ableton Live set. Covering topics from backing track preparation and live setup to performance techniques, this course provides the tools needed to confidently bring your music from the studio to the stage. We’ll unpack how to prepare stems, organise live instruments and choosing the right equipment, including audio interface, microphone, and controllers. The course goal is to enable participants to shape their own material into a playable, flexible and reliable Ableton Live set. You’ll learn about MIDI mapping and Automation for direct control of your Live Set, as well as signal flow and latency management to optimise your project for stability. Together, we'll build technical confidence while developing a performance that feels authentic. By the end, you’ll understand how to combine multiple tracks into a cohesive Live Set. This workshop is ideal for artists, songwriters or producers looking to move from studio production to live performance. Participation in all sessions is encouraged. However, each session can also be attended independently, so participants are welcome to drop in for specific classes that match their interests. Especially for those who are new to Ableton Live, joining the first introductory class (Class 1) will provide the essential foundations needed to comfortably follow the rest of the course. [Class 1 (optional): Introduction to Ableton Live – July 22nd] ∘ Introduction to the software ∘ Core workflows and navigation ∘ Essential tools and concepts An introductory session covering the fundamentals of Ableton Live. This class is designed to provide the groundwork for subsequent course sessions and is recommended for anyone who is newer to Ableton Live. Whether you’re coming from a different DAW (Digital Audio Workstation), are completely new to working with audio software, or just want a refresher, this session is for you. [Class 2: Preparing your Live Set – July 23rd] ∘ Equipment & Setup ∘ Controller & MIDI mapping ∘ Turn existing tracks into a performance ∘ Preparing your Stems, Instruments, and EUects In this class we will understand the essentials of a live setup, from choosing the right equipment and integrating instruments and MIDI controllers to learning how to organise your material – including stems and live instruments – for live performance. [Class 3: Building your Live Set – July 29th] ∘ Performing with Ableton Live: Session vs. Arrangement View ∘ Creating your Live Set (Importing Stems, Setting up Live-Elements) ∘ Performance Workflows ∘ Routing, Latency & Loudness In this class we will look at building a reliable Live Set while gaining a deeper understanding of performance workflows in Ableton Live. [Class 4: Introducing Live-ness – July 30th] ∘ Developing your Live Set ∘ Performance Techniques ∘ Q&A ∘ Individual Feedback This class is for you if you want to make your performance more dynamic, expressive, and engaging, or are interested in feedback and exchange about your own live setup and ideas.
- Dates
- Wed 22 Jul, Thu 23 Jul, Wed 29 Jul, Thu 30 Jul
- Time
- 18:30–21:00
- Cost
- €75-185 full course €20-45 drop in (+ €5 membership fee for new members)
- Attendance type
- You can drop in to any day
- You can attend the whole course
- Class type
- Music, Performance
- Space
- Basement
- Desired audience
- Artists, musicians, producers, singer-songwriters, and live performers who want to transform their studio productions into technically solid live performances using Ableton Live.
- What should I bring?
- ∘ Laptop with Ableton Live installed (The course will be taught using Ableton Live 11/12) ∘ Basic understanding of music production software (or join Class 1 – Intro to Ableton Live) ∘ Some pre-existing music you're interested in performing, e.g. finished or nearly finished track(s) ∘ Optional: Headphones, Midi Controller, Audio Interface, Microphone Note: if you don't own/have access to any of the above, you can get in touch in advance so we can find options to provide the above.
About the artist
Berlin-based producer, artist, and engineer Freya van Husen (AV FREYA) crafts experimental dream pop that blends lush organic warmth with intricate electronic textures. Rooted in electronic experimentation and pop sensibility, she fuses singer-songwriter storytelling with immersive soundscapes, blending acoustic and digital elements. Beyond her artistry, she collaborates with feminist production initiatives and community-driven spaces. As an educator, Freya combines hands-on production techniques with a music-psychology perspective, exploring forward-thinking approaches to contemporary sound creation and performance. With a BA in Psychology (DE), an MA in Songwriting & Music Production (UK), and Musicology (DE), her practice sits at the intersection of creative expression, technology, and artist empowerment.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/avfreya/https://www.instagram.com/avfreya/
Accessibility
The solidarity spot for this course is now booked. This course is in a room which is not wheelchair accessible. If you'd like to join but this is a barrier, please let us or the course coordinators know. Please see the yellow section below for more on accessibility.
Sliding scale
We use a sliding scale to make courses as affordable as possible. Here’s how to use it: Lower end: You don’t have a stable income. Mid range: You have a less stable financial situation and are more selective about where you spend your money. Higher end: You experience relative financial stability. Solidarity spot: You’re experiencing financial precarity and wouldn’t otherwise be able to afford to come to a workshop.