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Music Education through Technology Clinics

Escaping the 4-Bar Loop in Ableton Live

Thursday – January 14, 2027 at 9:00 AM | A11

This clinician will use Ableton Live to identify strategies for transforming static, 4-bar loops into dynamic compositions by disrupting default settings and implementing intentional variation. Through metric disruption, purposeful phrasing, and narrative automation, students will move beyond repetitive loops toward meaningful musical development. Attendees will participate in a collaborative, real-time composition session and receive a digital resource folder containing ready-to-use project templates and checklists. The purpose of this session is to provide attendees with a roadmap to bridge the gap between students' initial ideas and professional-grade production.

Target Audience

Music Technology Instructors, Commercial Music Educators, Secondary/Collegiate Composition Teachers, and Directors of Non-Traditional Ensembles (Modern Band/Electronic Music).

Additional Notes

Clinician Info

John David Cope

Point Loma Nazarene University

Dr. John David Cope is an Assistant Professor of Music Theory, Composition, and Commercial Music at Point Loma Nazarene University. He earned a Doctorate in Music Composition with a Cognate in Music Theory from Texas Christian University in 2025. He is an active composer, theorist, and educator dedicated to creating enlightening, engaging, and innovative music. His work spans a diverse array of media, from large-scale orchestral works to sophisticated electronic compositions. He is dedicated to creating innovative and accessible musical experiences for all and equipping the next generation of creators with the technical and creative tools necessary for professional-grade production.

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