IT ALL STARTS WITH THE FIRST STEP

1

For a fundamental look at step sequencing, let’s start by exploring the core ideas in software. We’ll move onto proper sequencing hardware shortly, but for now launch Logic, open a new project and setup a melodic instrument track of your choice. We went with a Rhodes-type electric piano.

2

To start plotting out notes, go to Window/Open Step Sequencer, which will also create a section on that track. In the step sequencer window you can start plotting notes. Each channel’s pitch can be defined using the dropdowns on the left. We created a simple pattern using the default pitch settings.

3

Each channel has a clock divider, which we used to help add rhythmic interest to the sequence, by dropping the first channel from the default 16th note to an 8th. The main sequencer window menu allows global changes to this too. These settings can be used for division or multiplication. 4

One thing that can put people off is the precision. To add humanisation, open the drop-down for a channel, where you’ll see additional steps for velocity, gate and tie. Add randomisation here, or have the notes build in a pattern. The tie control lets you combine adjacent notes.

5

For variety you can add ratchets, or note repeats. Choose the channel you want to effect, then either add a note repeat lane using the little + button to the left, or click on Velocity, Gate or Tie and choose what that lane is. Once done you can drag in a step to add repeats.

6

If the thought of going through each lane or each channel, adding variation horrifies you, but you really want that variation, go to Function/Randomize Row Values (or all rows) and let Logic do the work. This is a more efficient way to add spice, at the expense of forfeiting some control.