A digital audio workstation (DAW) is a core element for producing music with a computer.
But how do you choose the right DAW for your teaching practice? The wide range of available DAWs can be overwhelming.
Let’s look at this question from different perspectives.
Your perspective
If you think about using a DAW mainly for yourself — for example, to prepare music lessons or during teaching — your own perspective may be the most important.
Base your choice on:
What you already know (click for details)
If you are already familiar with a DAW, it will probably save you a lot of time to just stick with it and explore how you use that DAW to achieve your objectives.
Ease of learning
Choose a DAW that feels manageable. If you are already using Ableton Live Intro, for example, upgrading to Live Suite may be logical. If you already use Garageband, Logic Pro could be a natural next step. If you are starting from scratch, choose a DAW that is affordable, not overly complex, and recommended by colleagues or friends.
Available support
Look for strong technical and pedagogical support. Video tutorials, user forums and even AI tools can help. However, it can be very practical to use the same DAW as your colleagues, so support is close at hand.
Compatibility with your computer
Always check the minimum system requirements. If your computer cannot handle the software, you may need to choose another DAW or upgrade your device.
Costs
DAWs range from free to expensive. Many offer trial versions, educational discounts or subscription models. Some offer alternative purchase options, such as Ableton’s rent-to-own offerings. Also check whether updates and upgrades are included, like Apple used to offer with Logic Pro.
Your students’ perspective
If you want your students to use a DAW in class, then their perspective becomes equally important.
Base your choice on:
Accessibility
Most DAWs require installation on your device, but some work online (e.g. Soundtrap, BandLab). Browser-based DAWs increase accessibility but require stable internet and may involve latency between playing or singing live and monitoring (listening back during your performance). Some require subscriptions (Soundtrap), or registration (BandLab).
Operating systems
Students may use Windows, macOS or tablets. Some DAWs only work on specific platforms (e.g. GarageBand and Logic on Apple devices). If you want all students to use the same DAW, choose one that works across platforms (multiplatform)
Access at home
If students need to continue working outside school, the DAW must be available on their own devices.
Costs, system requirements and ease of learning
Similar to choosing a DAW from your perspective, students must be able to afford and run the software. It should also be manageable for their skill level.
Your school’s perspective
When a DAW is part of what your school offers to you or your students, institutional factors matter.
Base your choice on:
Costs, system requirements and accessibility
Similar to choosing a DAW from a teacher’s or students’ perspective. However, a DAW becomes more cost-effective when shared among multiple teachers or students and when used widely across departments. Some DAWs offer educational discounts as well.
Compatibility with the school’s IT environment
Some DAWs include learning management systems (e.g. Soundtrap, BandLab). Others integrate within existing ecosystems (e.g. GarageBand within Apple). Consider project sharing, licensing models and compliance with school IT policies.
Reputation and innovation
Integrating up-to-date technology can strengthen a school’s profile. Features such as AI tools may appeal to students and parents.
Other perspectives
Additional factors may influence your choice:
Environmental impact
Installed software may be more efficient for heavy offline use. Web-based software may be greener for lighter use, especially if hosted on renewable energy.
Ethical considerations
Generative AI features may raise ethical concerns. This may influence your choice of DAW.
Political concerns
Issues such as equity of access, corporate influence, software freedom and cultural inclusiveness may play a role. For example, choosing an open-source alternative such as openDAW may align better with certain values.
A final thought
Choosing the right DAW is not about finding the “best” DAW. It is about finding the DAW that best aligns with your educational goals, your context and the learners you work with.
If you would like practical support in getting started, you can explore my free DAW guides. These guides help you understand the fundamentals of working with a DAW — an important first step into learning how this can translate into meaningful music education. For example, use the guides to learn the basics of BandLab and Ableton Live.
And if you would prefer personal advice tailored to your situation — whether as an individual teacher, a department or an institution — feel free to get in touch.
I would be happy to think along with you and explore which approach fits your context best.
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