Not really a beginner project.
the project will be built around these circuits or similar:
Proximity Sensor:
[1]
VCA option 1:
[2]
(scroll down to last circuit)
VCA option 2:
[3]
(scroll down to last circuit)
VCO option 1 (555):
[4]
VCO option 2 (Lamp):
[5]
(scroll down to pg 3, Figure 2a)