Unit 3

Writing the music

In this Unit, students put their music together in Acid Xpress which can be downloaded free of charge, although any loop-based sequencing software will do [for example EJay or for Mac users, Garageband]. Students should work through the online video tutorials to gain an understanding of its basic features.

Students should start with their rhythm and tempo from Unit 2 and source drum, bass, keyboard, guitar and synthesiser samples which should be saved in a library on a local drive.

Download: Writing the music [Word] for further information and activity

Acid Xpress tricks and tips

This free version of the software has limited functionality but this activity sheet provides some ideas that you may wish to try ..

Download: Acid Xpress [Word] for further information and activity

Creating samples using Audacity

The students will be able to create some musical ideas and effects by jamming along to the tracks they have recorded so far in the free music editing programme Audacity.

Download: Create Samples in Audacity [Word document]