Expressive Sound Design with Andrew Longhurst
More expressive performance can be achieved through various technologies and techniques such as velocity, channel aftertouch (pressure), polyphonic aftertouch, and MIDI Polyphonic Expression (MPE). These features allow compatible synthesizer instruments and controllers to mimic the subtle dynamics of acoustic instruments.
In this video, musician, producer, and sound designer Andrew Longhurst demonstrates his approach to expressive sound design, showcased through his collection of presets for Ensoniq ESQ-1 by Cherry Audio. He provides demonstrations of each technique using the Expressive E Osmose CE MIDI controller and discusses his choices for setting up these advanced modulations in a preset.
These techniques can be widely applied to other Cherry Audio virtual instruments. Be sure to check the product feature listings and documentation to determine which instruments specifically support some or all of these methods. Additionally, consult your MIDI controller documentation, as compatibility for channel aftertouch, polyphonic aftertouch, and especially MPE can vary significantly in this evolving market.
Ensoniq ESQ-1 by Cherry Audio User Guide
Andrew began his career in software and hardware development, preset design, and sample libraries in 1983. Over the years, he has created for several notable companies including Sony, Amek, DAR, Steinberg, eMagic, Lexicon, Klark Teknik, Akai PMI, Roland, E-Mu, Creative Labs, Novation, Red Sound, dS-Tec, Yamaha, and more. After spending 25 years in the audio-visual and virtual reality fields, he has recently returned to product and sound design. He co-hosts the Pro Synth Network LIVE Show, a weekly YouTube livestream dedicated to electronic music technology, featuring news, in-depth discussions, and special guests from the synthesizer industry.
In a separate video this week, James Dyson shared a livestream performing some of his MPE presets from the Soniq Odysseys Preset Pack for ESQ-1.
Most Cherry Audio instruments already support velocity, channel aftertouch, and polyphonic aftertouch when used with qualified MIDI controllers. Instruments with support for MPE with compatible controllers include: