Making My First Demo: Recording, Production, & Mixing Basics

Making My First Demo, led by Dominic "Diggity Dom" Glaude, is a hands-on workshop series where musicians learn the basics of recording and producing their first demo. This is a classroom-style workshop. This series is in person at Boston Neighborhood Network, attendees should expect to participate in all sessions for maximum benefit.

April 1: Introduction to Music Production | RSVP

We begin with an accessible introduction to digital music production using free or low-cost digital audio workstations (DAWs). Participants will learn how to navigate a DAW, use MIDI instruments and audio loops, and begin building simple beats or musical sketches. This session encourages creative play and experimentation with digital tools, even before any live recording takes place. No instruments or prior experience needed—just curiosity and a desire to explore sound.

May 6: Recording Essentials | RSVP

This session focuses on setting up a simple home recording environment, understanding input devices (mics and interfaces), and capturing vocals or instruments. We’ll cover mic placement, gain staging, and tips for getting clean recordings in non-studio spaces. Participants will record their own audio clips to begin integrating into their existing project.

June 3: Mixing Basics | RSVP

In the third session, participants will learn how to mix their recordings and production layers into a cohesive, polished demo. We’ll cover key tools like volume balancing, panning, and adding effects like reverb or delay.

July 1: Listening Session | RSVP

The final session wraps up with time for participants to share their work-in-progress or completed demos in a supportive group setting. Participants will receive feedback on their songs from class and instructor.

Facilitator Bio:

Dominic "Diggity Dom" Glaude started playing the drums when he was 4 and then began learning how to play the piano and produce from his mother, Ms. Angel Monet. During Dominics' childhood, he sang, danced, and acted in his mom's musical called "Jack's World". Later on, he played drums, keys, and percussion, while singing background vocals in the kids' band "So Amazing" from 2007-2015. In fourth grade, he joined the Berklee city music program then went to Boston Arts Academy and focused on Music Technology. Later on, he received a full-tuition scholarship to Berklee College of Music where he completed a Bachelor of Music in Music Production & Engineering and Music Business/Management with a minor in Commercial Record Production.

In 2020 he started his own brand, “Diggity Dom” where he released his first EP "Light of Mind" in 2021. This project was meant to be a form of self-care for himself and others. During that time he launched his business Diggity Dom Entertainment LLC. At his company, he provides services, such as music production, recording, mixing, and mastering for himself and various artists/clients. Diggity Dom also handles live entertainment for businesses and artist development services for creatives. Along with playing the drums, he’s also a songwriter who can sing and rap.

Throughout his life, he's taught music classes, drum lessons, and music technology to all ages. On top of teaching, he has toured in places like New England, Virginia, Canada, and Sweden. He's also worked with Grammy-nominated artists Gucci Mane and Musiq Soulchild. Dominic shared stages with Ricky Minor, Chaka Chan, Andre Ward, Saucy Santana & more. 

Currently, he is in the process of dropping new music, producing music videos, and elevating the Diggity Dom brand. Growing up, he saw the value in what it means to have a mentor. So, he became a Therapeutic Mentor for an LGBTQ Non-profit for youth of color throughout his last couple of years of college. Dominic is an Afro-Caribbean trans man who believes everyone should be treated with respect and kindness regardless of their identity. He brings his community together by directing events and festivals in the Boston Area. And, he facilitates and programs Live Stream Events for the House of Inspiration Network for people all over the world to tune in. Overall, Dominic is passionate about all forms of music and aims to help people through music and media.