Piano for Beginners 6th ED - 2016 UK

You don’t want

your recordings

to look like this

computer. All you need are some instrument plug-

ins, many of which can be freely downloaded from

the internet. If you’re on Windows, you will probably

want a VST; if you’re on Mac, you’ll want a VST or AU

(audio unit). How you install these plug-ins depends

on your audio editor, so search the program’s help

files for assistance.

When your plug-in is installed, you can use a

MIDI keyboard to play what you’re looking for. If

you don’t have a MIDI keyboard, then don’t worry,

as many editors enable you to control the VST with

your computer keyboard. It must be said, however,

that digital instruments are in no way a substitute

for the real deal, but they do help those of us with

limited resources.

Sounding different

I just nailed the perfect take on my piano, but it

sounds dreadful when I play it back – what am I

doing wrong?

The solution is usually a lot simpler than you may

think. If you’re recording through a microphone,

make sure it’s not too close to the piano or

keyboard, or you may get an unwanted distortion

effect. Also, be sure to check the volume of the track

on the computer – if it’s +10dB it probably won’t

sound right.

In many recording programs, you can opt to

monitor your instrument through headphones as

you go. This way you can hear what your recording

will sound like. Also, this will mean you can listen

to a backing track without the mic picking it up. If

you don’t wear headphones yet still monitor your

piano, you run the risk of creating cacophonous

feedback, which will definitely be captured by

the microphone!

Virtual effects wizard

I don’t want to spend lots of money on a high-

end keyboard, but I still want to record my digital

piano with some funky effects. Is this possible?

We’ve already mentioned how VST instruments

can enhance your sound, but now here’s where

VST effects come in handy. Whether you just

want to add a subtle reverb effect or a crazy synth

sound, these plug-ins have got you covered. Like

the instruments, VST installing methods will vary

depending on your audio editor, but it will likely

be a similar process. Many VSTs will have multiple

settings, but it is down to you to select the best

ones, as there are several variables that affect the

sound. Make sure you save once you’ve found the

perfect settings.

However, just because you can use these effects

on your computer doesn’t mean that you should.

For instance, if you ever plan on playing live, it is a far

better idea to invest in a keyboard as it’s not exactly

easy to change effects halfway through a song if

you’ve got to run to your computer and click a few

buttons! They are, however, perfect if you want to

sit down and record some tracks on your computer

using interesting sounds.

GarageBand is useful for

creating backing tracks

“If you’re recording through a microphone,

make sure it’s not too close to the piano or

keyboard, or you may get unwanted distortion”