Dynamics

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Dynamics

A fine musical performance, whatever the genre , usually contains a degree of dynamic variation. It goes without saying that a MIDI sequence that emulates such a performance must also contain the same dynamic ingredients : volume (loud or soft), gradual changes of volume (crescendo and diminuendo), sudden changes of volume (sforzando) and accented notes. Three MIDI controllers are used dynamically in Logic volume, expression and velocity.

Velocity controls the volume of an individual note depending on how hard or soft a key is struck on your MIDI keyboard. Again imagination is needed. Be that percussionist. Take this timpani figure for example (Figure 2.16).

Figure 2.16. Timpani figure

• Load getreal/timpani/timpani.

Listen and examine the sequence in the Matrix Edit window with Hyper Draw open as well (Figure 2.17). You will notice that the velocity values start at 55 and end at 125. The gradual increase in attack is not exact, nor would it be if played by a real percussionist. Although velocity values can be used to control volume and fade outs, it is wiser to use volume and expression.

Figure 2.17. Timpani velocity in Hyper Draw

Volume (Controller No.7) and expression (Controller No.11) are essentially the same thing. They both control the volume of a sequence. However, when exporting your work as a MIDI file for use on another computer, keyboard or sound module, it is best to use volume as a master function, to control the overall picture, and expression for the dynamic changes within that picture. This allows the end user to adjust the balance of individual instruments on their equipment (what sounds loud on your gear may sound quiet on theirs) without spoiling the dynamic content of the recorded data.

A foot pedal (much like on a real piano) can be used to control these parameters in real time when playing from a keyboard. Being the imperfect keyboard player that I am, I prefer to add these changes afterwards by either using the Mixer or Hyper Draw.

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