Import into GarageBand or in iTunes select “get info” with the track selected and then choose the tab that allows you to set the start and end time of the track.

After you change the start and end times of the song like @kevbo said, you can highlight the song and go to Advanced>Create mp3 version. It’ll make an actual new file that’s the new, short length.

you might try a freeware sound editing program called Audacity. Just search for it at downloads.com

@fireinthepriory, I did not know that. Thanks!

@kevbo It’s so useful for making your own ringtones! :)

Where is this “advanced” menu?

When iTunes is active, it’s along the top menu bar. After the apple, you’ll see the words iTunes, File, Edit, etc. continuing to the right. Advanced is between Store and Window.

It says I can create an AAC version but not a MP3.

Oh! Ok, go into iTunes>Preferences and then go to import settings (on the main window, to the side of “When you insert a CD”) and change that first drop-down menu to Mp3 encoder.

Depending on what you want to use the music clip for, you might want to use a different encoder. If you are making ringtones, then I bet you could look up what your phone takes. I also like to change it to Good Quality (or lower) for making ringtones, since it won’t sound different on little phone speakers anyway, and they’ll be smaller files so you can fit more of them on your phone.

You can also do what @fireinthepriory suggested straight from garageband… just go into the share menu and select either send ringtone to itunes or send song to itunes… it will take care of the rest.

Enjoy.