Techniques
One of the most important advantages of recording using a computer is that it provides a visual interface. This can be really helpful when it comes to organising and arranging ideas. Computer based recording makes it easy to experiment with ideas, allowing them to be adjusted and developed.
MIDIA technical facility that allows a range of digital music making equipment to connect with each other. can provide a great way to add instrumental sounds that are not otherwise available and the piano roll viewAn editor view in a computer sequencer that displays the notes as rectangles left to right. means they can easily be edited, by using the drawing tools to alter the pitches and durations of any notes. quantizeTo electronically adjust the duration or timing of a note by a preset amount. recordings to tighten up the timing, but be careful not to overdo this so that the music sounds mechanical.
As well as working with original audio recordings and MIDI parts, some contemporary music makes extensive use of loops and sampled sounds. The musician in this clip talks through his approach to composition as he builds a track. Starting with a beat, he creates a set of loops out of different sampled instrumentAn electronic instrument that uses samples as the basis for its sound., whilst modifying their pitchThe frequency of a sound. Sounds with a high pitch have a high frequency., tempoThe speed or pace of performance in speech, dance or music. and adding effects to change their timbreThe tonal quality or sound of an instrument that distinguishes it from others..
Using loops in music samples
Use the clip library provided by your sequencer softwareComputer software that can make digital recordings of music., or import loops/samples from an external source. Consider how you might use these to put together a piece of music. In addition, record three original samples to also use in the composition. Before you begin, make sure that the samples are all at the same tempo or beats per minuteThe number of beats that occur during a minute.. Also make sure they are in the same keyThe main or central note of a piece of music - based on major or minor scale.. In compositionCreating a new piece of music. it is important to listen carefully and use your ears and imagination to think about how best to combine sounds.