Trance Tips for a Trance Noob?

[Skybolt]

Hi, I just started to get into trance music the other day and now I'd like to try making it. I tried it out with this song:
http://soundcloud.com/skybolt/skybolt-vibrant
...but I think it turned out more house-ish than trance-y.

So... does anyone have some tips or tricks for a trance beginner?

[ph00tbag]

Well, you're on the right track. I would say that your theme development moves a little fast (take that with a grain of salt, since I usually get told my tracks are too long). Trance is a very fragmented genre these days, so a more simplistic track like this one isn't out of the question. Usually, though, trance will start out more minimalist, with few melodic elements, and build up more gradually. An average length of around 7 minutes isn't crazy for trance.

[Captain Ironhelm]

Transitions are added in when it just feels right. Generally this can be Somewhere around every 8, 16, or 32 bars.

[Thyrai]

As was said, you're definitely on the right track. I find a lot of modern trance is really focussed on having a long buildup (can be up to 5 minutes long!) and ending with a satisfying chorus.

Here's an example of what I mean
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_rSXzvFzCKc