Orchestrating in Logic Pro X
Your personal Logic Orchestra awaits! Eli Krantzberg guides you through a comprehensive series on how to create realistic orchestral arrangements using nothing but Logic Pro X and its built-in instruments. You also get the Logic Project files so you can follow along and experiment!
Videos
• Introduction (04:51) - Get an overview of what will be covered in these videos, and hear a before and after version of the exercise that will be developed throughout the series.
• Understanding Articulation IDs (05:13) - Learn how to choose and switch instrument articulations in the Smart Controls and Event List windows using Logic?s proprietary Articulation ID note property feature.
• Real Time Articulation Switching (06:13) - Explore real time articulation switching directly from the EXS 24 modulation matrix, and from Smart Controls.
• MIDI Expression & Alternate Tempo Map (09:42) - Learn how to set up an Environment transformer to convert incoming MIDI CC messages from an external controller into MIDI Expression (CC 11) messages. And see how to create an alternate tempo map in order to play in parts at a slower tempo.
• Orchestrating the Original Idea (03:07) - Follow along as the original three voice piano sketch is spread across three string section sounds.
• Developing the Idea Pt. 1 (07:30) - Discover how subtly modifying the EXS 24 attack envelope of the string section sounds enhances the natural quality of the legato note swells already established with MIDI expression. And follow along as a pizzicato cello section part is added to the next eight bars of the orchestration.
• Developing the Idea Pt. 2 (06:11) - Pizzicato basses are added, and doubled on solo clarinet, to flesh out the ostinato pattern outlining the shifting harmonies.
• Melody (10:24) - Watch as a legato melody is recorded using the french horn section. Track alternatives are used to record multiple passes of expression data. The melody is then doubled with a solo bassoon and the copied expression data is edited.
• Ostinato Variation (07:33) - Here a variation of the ostinato part is created in the lower register, sustained chords are used in the middle register of the French Horn section, and the melody is restated in the high register by solo flute and the first violins.
• Developing the Variation (04:57) - A rhythmic trumpet section part comprised of staccato and legato playing styles is added. The rhythm is then doubled on snare drum.
• Harmonic & Melodic Variation (08:00) - A modified version of the main melodic motif is played over a short and simple ostinato variation built on a static harmonic center.
• Recapitulation (02:57) - The central ostinato theme is restated with a simple melodic variation added, followed by the principal melody with a thinned out accompaniment.
• Coda (06:31) - The sketch is ended with a full chord. Each instrument plays one note, and a swell is established by recording separate expression data for each instrument.
• Phrasing & Tempo (07:19) - Learn to use the global tempo track to create subtle ritardando and accelerando changes to add phrasing and timing variations between sections.
• Mixing (08:29) - Hear how Logic?s stereo panning and PlatinumVerb?s early reflections are used to establish positioning and depth in the orchestral mix.
• Final Playback (04:01) - Explore a few last minute tweaks, and hear a final playback of the full exercise.