DAW controls
- Manipulate the dynamics of a piece of music (either to create a balanced piece or to create rhythmic interest within it)
- Automate the dynamic features of a DAW
When using a DAW, ask learners to use the volume faders to alter individual instruments or samples to create a balanced piece of music.
Show learners how to automate the dynamic features of a DAW, typically by drawing in ‘automation’ curves on a specifically designated track, or lane connected to a track. For example, if a learner wanted to automate volume swells, a line would be drawn on the automation lane or track starting at the point the increase in volume is to start, ascending to the point where the swell is to stop. Similarly, if a fade is required, a line would be drawn on the automation lane or track starting at the point the decrease in volume is to start, descending to the point where the fade is to stop.
Within most DAWs, learners can also record the volume fader adjustments (automation) in real time to manipulate the volume of individual tracks to create a dynamic mix. Demonstrate this and ask learners to experiment.
In many DAWs, the faders are presented vertically in a way that replicates a hardware mixing console. This makes pushing the volume up and down intuitive. However, some DAWs like GarageBand present the faders horizontally on the instrument tracks; moving the fader left lowers the volume and right raises it.
Some MIDI controllers are velocity sensitive; therefore, learners may add dynamic variation to their performances by pressing keys/pads with more or less force.
‘Velocity’ is the Music Technology version of dynamics.
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