So it’s been a while since I’ve posted anything and since I’m working terribly hard at building my catalog, it’s been a bit tough keeping up. But this next one is something that will benefit anyone who uses orchestral strings in any DAW. This particular video was made for Logic, but the theory is the same.

Let’s begin by analyzing what we’re working with. The video was made as an instructional piece for someone I know, but it’s still very useful. I’m working on a horror cue in the video that required some very creepy, flowing, sustained string action to highlight the creepiness of the character.

Programming strings in any DAW, whether they are dynamic or not sound like crap unless the midi data is massaged and manipulated in a way that makes the string section sound like a group of humans played it, and not as if it were programmed; even if it is.

There are two control messages (CC messages in MIDI) that can be manipulated in a Symphobia Dynamic patch. Symphobia is made by ProjectSAM and is probably the best out-of-the-box orchestra you have ever heard. It’s expensive, but it’s worth it. Anyway, there are 2 midi controls that can be manipulated to create the swelling I need to simulate real bowing by real players.

These 2 control messages are CC7 and CC11. CC11 is volume control in midi by default. CC7 is modulation, which is still kind of like volume, but depends on the programming by the software developer in what exactly it will control. In Symphobia, it seems to control bowing pressure and relative volume. Using this CC message together with the volume CC message, I can create the kind of effect I need. Here’s the video: *By the way, in the video, I make the mistake of calling both CC messages volume. See above.*

Drawing Automation from Wes Costello on Vimeo.

And here is the finalized cue from the video for a project I worked on through The Composer Collective. Tools of the Trade.

As you might have noticed, the automation curves are exactly that – CURVED! If you’ve ever used automation and have only used them as straight up and down angles, you’re missing out on a total new dimension of programming. Using the curved lines immensely adds to the realism of string lines (as well as other instruments) and, with some practice, will save your ass when it comes down to a deadline for a project and you need a quick cue or a quick edit. It’s a total lifesaver.

How do you get your string sections to sound realistic? Does this sound realistic to you? What libraries do you use?