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virtual instruments

woman using soft synths in studio

How to produce with soft synths

September 7, 2022September 7, 2022 Michael Gallant

Software synthesizers can open up huge musical possibilities when you’re producing music. Here’s how to get started. Read the post.

music producer listening to a pre-made loop

How to alter pre-made loops to get a customized sound

August 3, 2022August 4, 2022 Michael Gallant

Pre-made loops are great tools for creative inspiration while you’re recording. A few simple techniques can help make them sound less like stock sounds and more like you. Read the post.

Dave Smith, the godfather of MIDI

Dave Smith: The Godfather of MIDI

June 17, 2022June 17, 2022 Michael Gallant

Music technologist, inventor, and synthesizer creator Dave Smith died on May 31, 2022. His innovations will continue to shape music for years to come. Read the post.

laptops at music gigs

Using a laptop onstage (without crashing your performance)

July 18, 2019July 18, 2019 Michael Gallant

Considering using a laptop onstage to enhance your sound or visuals at gigs? These basic tips can help you minimize problems and keep your shows on track. Read the post.

Nord electric keyboard

Finding the right digital piano

June 25, 2019June 26, 2019 Michael Gallant

Need the feel and sound of a great acoustic piano for your live shows? Here are some digital pianos that might fit the bill Read the post.

acoustic piano

Acoustic piano on stage and in the studio

May 16, 2019May 16, 2019 Michael Gallant

While an acoustic piano may be the preference for a studio or live gig, it’s not always the most practical choice. Here are tuning tips and suggestions for alternatives when it comes to providing piano for your next gig. Read the post.

plug-ins

Working with plug-ins: A beginner’s guide

September 20, 2018September 20, 2018 Michael Gallant

If you’re new to home recording, or looking to expand your repertoire, using plug-ins might feel intimidating and complicated. It’s really not that hard to start using plug-ins and expand your sonic palette. Read the post.

A DAW interface illustrating the use of various audio plug-ins.

Meet the Audio plug-in: Your start-up kit

September 7, 2018September 25, 2018 Michael Gallant

An audio plug-in is specialized software for better music-making with your DAW, and plug-ins serve a variety of purposes to flavor, enhance, and add to the breadth of your home studio recordings. Read the post.

analog synthesizers

Analog synthesizers expand your musical horizons

February 7, 2018April 30, 2019 Michael Gallant

From mood-setting ambient tones to raucous synth-pop, analog synthesizers have made a mark on music in various genres – and they’re not just for keyboards! Read More.

Four Alternative Keyboard Instruments

Four Unusual Keyboard Instruments That Can Inspire New Music

May 5, 2017May 5, 2017 Michael Gallant

When you think “keyboard,” you might think of a grand piano or Hammond organ, old-school analog synth or cutting-edge Korg digital workstation. But the possibilities for keyboard instruments go far beyond. Read More.

latency

Managing latency with your keyboard to lock in your parts

April 26, 2017May 5, 2017 Michael Gallant

When playing keyboards, latency can refer to the delay between hitting a key and hearing the resulting sound. Just a little delay can derail your part. Read More.

recording great keyboard

Seven tips for recording great keyboard parts in the studio

April 3, 2017May 5, 2017 Michael Gallant

Having an inspired idea is one thing, but actually recording great keyboard parts in the studio can be another. Here are seven tips to put you on the right track. Read More.

Music Production Apps

Going mobile: A look at music making apps

February 20, 2017March 21, 2017 Michael Gallant

Jordan Rudess, keyboardist for Dream Theater and founder of Wizdom Music, gives us his picks and favorites in the ever growing world of music making apps for your mobile devices. Read More.

Virtual Musical Instruments

Virtual synths and musical instruments on your mobile device

February 10, 2017March 21, 2017 Michael Gallant

You can transform your mobile device into a Swiss army knife of synths and virtual musical instruments with these recommendations from Dream Theater keyboardist and musical entrepreneur, Jordan Rudess. Read More.

Hammond organ

Six tips for adding Hammond organ to your music

December 29, 2016January 18, 2017 Michael Gallant

The Hammond organ is the most commonly heard type of organ in popular music. It can be a complicated and challenging instrument, so here are some tips to help you get started. Read More.

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