Live Musicians: The Value of High-Quality Sample Libraries

People occasionally ask me: "Do you get local ensembles to play and record your music?" I answer, 'No!' The response is followed by, "Oh, so it must be electronic music?" ‘I do not use electronic music. I use high-quality music sample libraries with samples professionally captured at famous recording facilities. Studio examples include Abbey Road, BBC Maida Vale, and The Nave.

What is the typical recording process? Imagine being a professional pianist contracted to play samples for a new library. As you enter the studio, the gorgeous Imperial Bösendorfer Grand Piano silently awaits your touch. Soon, dedicated work begins.

You start by playing all 97 keys loudly (fff) in a disconnected, staccato style, then holding the notes firmly in a smooth legato mode, with a forceful attack, and then in a sustaining style. The next step is to repeat everything somewhat less loudly (ff)... then loudly (f), then medium loud (mf), medium soft (mp), soft (p), softer yet (pp), and lastly, scarcely audible (ppp). Thereafter, you repeat the cycle, playing octaves instead of single notes. Seconds, thirds, fourths, fifths, sixths, and sevenths are the next two notes you repeat. You follow this process with trills above and below the beginning note. Naturally, you must perform this with and without pedal combinations, as well as with the lid raised, half-height, or closed. Since a minimum of Close, Far, and Wide/Ambient mics will be set up, engineers may require numerous retakes to balance the sound.

When the library launches, your name will appear as the performer! And …. not only do you receive a session fee, but sales royalties will flow in.