Keyboard/computer-made music.
 

I have never seriously played an instrument in my life. I do not know the first thing about reading music, playing music, what the hell "major and minor" means, etc...basically, not a musician at all.

That said, I enjoy music enough to want to start making my own sounds through the use of electronic/computer progams.

What would you say is one thing I absolutely must learn about?

I have this notion that I'm just going to start hitting keys and experimenting with what sounds good through trial & error, but that's not going to lead anywhere, is it?

Any suggestions for a book or something I should read, to learn some fundementals of music, and using the software programs?

1. First off Major and Minor is referring to the key/chord/scale (interval). To be more exact it is the width of notes. Minor would mean less space and closer together and Major typically meaning the opposite.

2. That is good that you want to learn something, but to really make any real music you have to have some basic knowledge of chords (rhythm), notes (lead). This is not difficult to learn if you start simple and work your way up. Within a few months you will have the basics and be able to make relativly simple music on your chosen instrument.

3. I suggest using this book. Everything Reading Music: Step by Step. Its great for people just starting out who are not sure where they want to go with it.

4. I suggest starting out on piano (as it is in my opinion the easiest method to learn notation basics) because then you can branch out to synths and all the "electronic/computer programs" that work hand in hand.

You might try starting with a program like Fruity Loops, which lets you (obviously as you might think) work with loops. Rhythm loops, bass loops, etc. They have a lot of samples to work with initially so you can get the hang out it. You can also go deeper and work on a score-view.

I'll suggest the opposite. Don't use Fruity Loops ever. Its a terrible program.

Why not! Plenty of now musicians started this way. Good things come from experimentation.

But I suggest if you do want to learn a little about music theory, which would probably be a good idea, to find a website or book that explains very basic concepts of music for a beginner. Also purchase a music creation program such as Garage Band (I'm not really sure what kinds of programs are out there) so that you can start to learn how to compose songs and put stuff together, etc.