For this documentary I wanted the music to be something truly special, inspired by the scenes, and able to emote deep feelings. I also want the music to be connected to the scenes by using foley sounds recorded in the field. These can be the sound of a nearby stream used as an ambient background, the thud of a stone hitting the ground added to the percussion, striking; scraping; and shaking objects in nature as instruments. These will ground the music created, and keep it connected to Ireland. 

The Instruments 

When initially researching for the documentary I was searching for music, and came across a track made with Celtic Era 2. I knew then that I had to create at least 1 song for the documentary. 

"Celtic Era 2 allows you to experience Celtic culture through 36 instruments that have shaped the musical identity of Ireland’s stunning landscapes for generations."

Celtic Era 2 is a collection of VST (Virtual Studio Technology) files that are played on a midi keyboard via a DAW (Digital Audio Workstation). Some of the instruments included are:

  • Irish Whistle 
  • Uilleann Pipes
  • Irish Bouzouki
  • Dord 
  • and Bodhran.

This collection is great, but I wanted a wider array of instruments to create something grander and more orchestral. After some more research I came across East West Sounds and their Hollywood Fantasy Orchestra Collection. 6 packs of unique ensembles of traditional and world instruments that have been featured in the biggest movies and games in history. It has Celtic instruments, and other less traditional instruments from around the world. It also has more familiar orchestral instruments in the main sections:

  • Strings
  • Brass
  • Winds
  • and Percussion.

Finally I want some real Irish people playing instruments. With a tight budget this may only be a few small parts, but I think it's important. VSTs are great, they're made by recording real people playing real instruments, but there is something about having actual music recorded yourself, even if it's only 1 person banging a bodhran.

With these VSTs, recordings, and foley sounds there should be more than enough to create something much more than just a nice piece of music. 

The Equipment 

The DAW being used is FL Studio (serious producers may scoff, but it's evolved from just a drum machine in the 90s. FL Studio has been used to create chart topping music. Its recording capabilities have grown hugely. FL Studio users are increasing, while Pro Tools [industry standard] are declining). 

The Midi Controller is the FL Key 2 the only keyboard controller made for FL Studio. With four octaves of semi-weighted keys, 16 velocity-sensitive pads, eight knobs, nine faders, and an array of buttons. 

The limiting factor to music creation is our speakers. We currently use PC monitors. They are adjustable, but the range isn't sufficient. For example when adding a deep sub impact effect to videos during editing I couldn't hear it. When listening with headphones I could. So Maximum Iron now has a set of basic studio monitors, that have a better range and flatter/truer sound. To help hear clearer audio we've also invested in some acoustic panels that lessen sound reverberation. 

0 commentson Scoring Stones II (Preperation)