2

I've been coming across videos lately where people have these step sequencers and they even use it for melody/harmony. Such as volca bass. Why would people that can play a keyboard use such sequencers?

I kind of understand why people would use drum sequencers. But sequencers for melody/harmony? it got me wondering...

p.s when you plug in a keyboard midi controller into logic and record something, is that also considered sequencing? Because I don't mean that.

Improve this question

2 Answers 2

Reset to default
5

Why would people that can play a keyboard use such sequencers?

  • To be able to edit what they played without having to re-record it all again
  • to be able to reassign the notes that they played to different instruments. If you just record the audio, it's very difficult to change the sound after the fact
  • To be able to create musical parts that couldn't be physically played by the available instrumentalists
  • To allow the musician to record a part, and then edit/shape it in real time by tweaking the sequence, or changing parameters
Improve this answer
4
  • 1
    And: why not? It can be just another fun way of creating music.
    – Draakhond
    Oct 20, 2019 at 9:21
  • @Draakhond definitely. A different process often gives you different results!
    – Нет войне
    Oct 20, 2019 at 11:43
  • The question isn't "why would you use a sequencer?" it's "why would you use a hardware sequencer rather than just play it in like any rational human being?"
    – Tetsujin
    Oct 20, 2019 at 11:50
  • @Tetsujin you are right about what the question is, but i didn't know musicians are rational human beings.
    – Draakhond
    Oct 20, 2019 at 13:38
3

This may not be considered an answer - because the answer is going to be "some do, some don't"…

imnsho, anyone using one of those things to sequence entire tracks either has some deep-seated masochistic streak or just wants to be able to look 'cool' on youtube.

I once spent an entire night programming a bass line on an early 80s version of that thing [whilst everybody else in the studio went out to a restaurant & a gig] & wouldn't wish it on my worst enemy.

The track in question - it had to be programmed linearly, it couldn't be a series of repeats because of one tiny detail - the root is always over the kick drum, even when the kick goes to 16ths.

Improve this answer

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge that you have read and understand our privacy policy and code of conduct.