We Make Noise x Roland Cloud: Empowering the Next Generation of Music Producers

We Make Noise is proud to have collaborated with Roland Cloud to launch the first-ever Roland Cloud Certification Course—a groundbreaking opportunity for aspiring producers to gain hands-on experience with Roland’s iconic sound tools.

What Is Roland Cloud?

Roland Cloud is a powerful subscription-based platform that offers a vast library of software synthesizers, drum machines, sound packs, and virtual recreations of Roland’s legendary hardware. From the TR-808 to the JUNO-106, Roland Cloud brings iconic sounds to today's music creators.

Launching the First Roland Cloud Certification Course

In October 2024, Jared Selter, Director of Education at Roland, developed and led the inaugural course. The curriculum guided students through:

• Classic drum sequencers like the Rhythm Ace, TR-808, and TR-909

• Analog and digital Roland synthesizers

• The history and usage of original Roland hardware

• Their modern software emulations on Roland Cloud.

Students were challenged to apply their knowledge through a final project: an original instrumental track featuring a Roland Cloud drum beat, chords, melody, and synthesized sound design. To earn certification, students had to score 80% or higher on a final quiz and submit a passing project.

The course concluded with a Q&A session with Roland artist Bonnie McIntosh, a seasoned performer who has toured with Kehlani, Halsey, and Post Malone.

“I was fortunate enough to be part of the first Roland Cloud Certification Course. I had so much fun doing it, and I learned so much.” — Certified Student

Congratulations to Our First Roland Cloud Certified Artists:

• Ann Marii Tippi

• Caro Durán

• Cassie Plunkett

• Claire Marie Lim

• Colby Lapolla

• Lauren Henschen

• Maiah Wynne

• Mari Aweidah

• McKinley Short

• Nekaybaaw El

• Sophia Bavishi

• Valentina Ahlmark

Expanding Access: The First Spanish-Language Roland Cloud Certification Course

Caro Durán

Building on the success of the first cohort, We Make Noise and Roland Cloud expanded the course in June 2025 with a Spanish-language certification aimed at supporting a more diverse community of music creators.

Led by Caro Durán—a producer, instrumentalist, and graduate of the original course—the Spanish-language cohort received expert training from Jared Selter and explored the same rigorous curriculum.

Industry Insights from Latin American Creatives

The course concluded with a special panel: “Navegando la Industria Musical Como Artista Independiente” (“Navigating the Music Industry as an Independent Artist”)

Moderated by Ángela Cortés of We Make Noise, the panel featured:

• Mónica Andrade (Mónar) – Freelance musician and keyboardist

• Dylan del Olmo – Grammy-winning recording engineer

• Caro Durán – Educator and producer

“Mainly, being able to learn from women producers and gender-expansive individuals, and to hear success stories of Latin American producers, reminded me that we all share a dream that is truly possible for everyone.” — Certified Student

Congratulations to Our Second Roland Cloud Certified Cohort:

• Alejandro Ramirez

• Cindy Rincón

• Elizabeth Gomez

• Emmanuell Nájera

• Emmie Stadler

• Larie Taveira

• Mónica Andrade

• Mercedes Díaz-Urrea

• Sophia Bejar

• Vanessa Sanchez

What’s Next?

Stay tuned for the launch of Level 2 of the Roland Cloud Certification Course -- offering deeper dives into sound design, arrangement, and creative production using Roland Cloud tools.

Huge thanks to Roland Cloud and Jared Selter for making this inclusive and innovative program possible.

Written by Nan Macmillan