DAW controls
- Manipulate the dynamics and audio listening field 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.
When using a DAW, ask learners to use the pan controls to alter the stereo position of individual instruments or samples to create a sense of space.
Model the skills learnt at Programme of Study One of automating the dynamic features of a DAW, typically by drawing in ‘automation’ curves on a specifically designated track, or lane connected to a track. Help learners to develop this further by creating detailed increases and decreases in volume across many instruments, to highlight key events such as snare fills, to lead breaks, or to emphasise certain phrases.
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. They can also adjust a specific track’s pan with consideration to how it fits within the stereo field. Demonstrate these features 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.
Panning a sound may be achieved by using a rotary type of controller: rotating left (anti-clockwise) moves the sound to the left and rotating right (clockwise) moves a sound to the right. Some DAWs, however, employ a horizontal slider bar to pan sounds.
Some MIDI controllers are velocity sensitive; therefore, learners may add dynamic variation to their performances by pressing keys/pads with more or less force. Learners should be encouraged to apply use of velocity that is appropriate to the music that they are recording.
‘Velocity’ is the Music Technology version of dynamics; velocity can be manipulated after notes have been recorded. Learners should be encouraged to identify when velocity of notes stands out and make appropriate alterations.
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