Learning Max and MSP/Tutorials and Lessons

Hi. I'm new to all this. I would like to know what would be the obvious steps to follow regarding tutorials provided by the software and/or from third parties, in order to get a good grasp of how the system works. My interests are creating simple instruments making interesting sounds, that I could control from some kind of midi controller; and creating effects that manipulate incoming audio (such as voice), also with effect-definitions controlled on-the-fly by some sort of midi controller.

Thank you so much,
João