Bitwig Needs No Arpeggiator

Summary

In this episode of 'Tash Teaches,' Tash explores innovative ways to create rhythmic broken chord and arpeggio sequences using Bitwig Studio's unique MIDI features, without the need for an arpeggiator. Four distinct techniques are demonstrated, each yielding diverse sonic results, including utilizing the Note Repeats device in Euclidean mode, the Ricochet device for organic patterns, the piano roll's repeat rate for note separation, and the Recurrence operator for unpredictable arpeggios. Tash's tutorial is a treasure trove for producers seeking to expand their rhythmic and harmonic palette in music production.

Takeaways

• 🎵 Tash teaches how to create rhythmic broken chord sequences in Bitwig Studio without using an arpeggiator.
• 🔄 The first technique involves using the Note Repeats device in Euclidean mode to break up chords into rhythmic patterns.
• 🎶 Tash demonstrates creating a C sharp minor seven chord and using the Note Repeats to add rhythmic variation.
• 🔄 The Note Repeats can be grouped and converted to a Note FX Selector for distributing notes among different layers.
• 🎹 Adjusting velocity and accent on the Note Repeats devices can create a more dynamic and interesting sound.
• 🏓 The Ricochet device, introduced in Bitwig 4.1, is used to create repeatable patterns with a non-random, quantized approach.
• 🔄 By manipulating the speed, mass, and shape of the Ricochet device, one can create various rhythmic patterns.
• 🎹 The Piano Roll's Note Repeats operator allows for customizing the repeat rate of individual notes within a chord.
• 🔄 The Recurrence operator can be used to create arpeggiated patterns where notes play at different intervals, creating complex rhythms.
• 🎛 Bitwig's velocity and expression controls can be fine-tuned to adjust the sound's decay and dynamics.
• 🎼 Experimenting with different instruments and velocity settings can lead to unique and unexpected sonic results.
• 🔉 Adding effects like reverb and delay can enhance the vibe and texture of the broken chord sequences.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the 'Tash Teaches' video?

The main focus of the video is to demonstrate how to utilize Bittwix Studio's unique MIDI features to create rhythmic broken chord arpeggio sequences without using an arpeggiator device.

What is the first technique Tash introduces in the video?

The first technique Tash introduces is using the Note Repeats device in Euclidean mode to create rhythmic variations of a chord.

How does Tash suggest modifying the Note Repeats device to create a more interesting sound?

Tash suggests grouping the Note Repeats and converting the note effects layer to a Note Notifx Selector, allowing for different layers to play different Euclidean rhythms, thus creating a more complex and interesting sound.

What does Tash mean by 'polymetric' in the context of the video?

In the context of the video, 'polymetric' refers to the overlapping and interplay of different rhythmic patterns created by the Note Repeats device, resulting in a complex, layered sound.

How does Tash propose to adjust the velocity of the notes to affect the sound?

Tash proposes to adjust the velocity control on the Note Repeats devices to create a dynamic range where some notes are harder and others are softer, adding depth and variation to the sound.

What is the purpose of using the Ricochet device as shown in the video?

The Ricochet device is used to create repeatable, organic, and intuitive patterns that can be used to generate arpeggios with a unique, less random feel.

How does Tash utilize the Quantize device with the Ricochet device?

Tash uses the Quantize device to ensure that the notes created by the Ricochet device are aligned to the grid, making the pattern more repeatable and predictable.

What is the significance of adjusting the speed, mass, and shape of the room in the Ricochet device?

Adjusting these parameters affects the pattern and rhythm of the notes produced by the Ricochet device, allowing for a wide range of rhythmic variations.

How does Tash use the Piano Roll's Note Repeats operator to create arpeggios?

Tash uses the Note Repeats operator in the Piano Roll to manually set the repeat rate for each note in a chord, creating a custom arpeggio pattern that can be quantized for a more structured sound.

What is the final technique Tash demonstrates in the video, and how does it work?

The final technique Tash demonstrates is using the Recurrence operator to create arpeggios where each note in a chord plays at different intervals, resulting in a unique rhythmic pattern.

How does Tash suggest enhancing the sound created by the Recurrence technique?

Tash suggests enhancing the sound by adjusting the recurrence settings for each note, changing the octave, and using different instruments in a selector to add variety and depth to the arpeggio.