Download blank sheet music manuscript from websites such as Blank Sheet Music, 8 Notes or Free Blank Sheet Music. Each of these websites provides several different varieties of manuscript suited to ensembles of different sizes and instrumentation. Find your preferred sheet music, and follow the displayed instructions to print out your free music manuscript paper. You'll need an Internet connection to access these services.
Download and install one of several freeware digital audio workstations such as Traverso, Hydrogen or Music Editor Free. These programs include several utilities and features that allow amateur and professional musicians to create synthesized electronic music, a popular contemporary genre. Although these programs inherently include a moderately steep learning curve, each one includes extensive documentation to ensure that beginning users can master the fundamentals of digital audio and begin creating their own music. Although not required, a musical instrument digital interface (MIDI) keyboard allows users to input pitches and customized tones at a faster pace than traditional mouse and keyboard usage.
Write and record electronic music using free cloud-based digital audio workstations (DAWs) such as Indaba's Mantis or Burnstudios' Audiotool. These programs contain similar features to retail DAWs but do not require installation on a hard drive. Although many retail DAWs do contain significantly more tools and features, cloud-based programs provide a free alternative for users beginning their exploration of music composition.
Attend a songwriters' workshop in your community or at a local university. Public arts outreach programs such as these are typically inexpensive or free and can provide valuable insight into the technique and artistry behind successful music writing.