Free and open to the public!
Social Time: ~7:15PM PST / Presentation begins: 7:30PM PST
Presenter: Mark Pritchard
Topic: Using plugins in Dorico
I’m not an expert on this topic but can share my experience with Dorico over the past couple of years, going through the steps necessary to add custom plugins to your score and play examples that demonstrate the possibilities. Here is some basic information you can review in advance.
An audio plugin is a software component that can be added to notation software or a digital audio workstation (DAW) to enhance playback and mockup mixes. Most instrument plug-ins come in a free player version and a purchased deeper version with extensive editing capabilities.
Plugins can:
Provide improved virtual playback from your score: Use sound modeling (NotePerformer) or external libraries to enhance your music playback. Example: Sonata for Percussion and Piano
Generate virtual instruments: Add synthesizers or unusual/rare virtual instruments to your score. Example: Full Moon Rising
Use phrase-based libraries that trigger phrases based on notes and keyswitches Example: Voices
Create new sounds: Compose with sounds not available from physical instruments.
Manipulate audio signals: Enrich existing sounds or produce a more effective mockup mix. Plugins have their own user interface with functions that can control various parameters of the sound such as volume, transposition, expression, or filter resonance. Some (e.g., Kontakt by Native Instruments) incorporate sampling and a mixer that itself can use other plugins to alter the sound.
The three most common audio plugin types are VST (Virtual Studio Technology by Steinberg), AU (Audio Units by Apple), and AAX (ProTools). Most DAWs are compatible with VST and AU, but AU is only used on Mac and AAX is only used in Pro Tools.
Mark’s bio:
My musical training in both classical and jazz idioms took place in the Los Angeles area, culminating in a BA in Music Composition from Cal State Northridge and an MFA from California Institute of the Arts. My goal as a composer is to create musical and multi-media concert works and virtual works that are intriguing, fresh and engaging for listeners; and rewarding and fun for performers. The music springs from diverse influences, including western classical from the renaissance through today, world music, blues, jazz, spiritual ceremony, and the sounds of nature. I currently reside in the South Sound area of Washington state.