The Guide To MIDI Orchestration

by Paul Gilreath, Jim Aikin (Editor)

Since its initial release in 1997, Paul Gilreaths The Guide to MIDI Orchestration has been the premiere text on creating realistic emulations of a symphony orchestra using samplers and computer recording techniques. Recent years have seen huge advances in sampling technology. Likewise, the demands put on the MIDI composer to produce extremely realistic orchestral textures have never been higher. Now in its 3rd edition, The Guide to MIDI Orchestration explains how to merge this ever-expanding technology with the artistry of orchestration to produce the most lifelike recordings possible.

The book is a hardback comprehensive text comprising over 700 pages that progresses from an overview of orchestral history to in-depth discussions of each section of the orchestra. The book is printed with four color process throughout.

Detailed information on each instruments timbre, range and uses is included. Specific orchestration techniques are discussed, including how to use the various instruments for accompaniment and melody, how to approach an orchestration from the ground up and how to achieve balance and interest within the orchestration. Gilreath then shifts gears and translates these elements into the MIDI and sampling environment, providing a clear and precise approach that will allow the reader to employ the necessary techniques with assurance. Chapters on studio setup and requirements, effects processing and plug-in considerations, DAW choices and mixing guidelines highlight the text. Detailed reviews and recommendations of orchestral libraries are included. Insightful interviews with mastering engineers Bob Katz and Bob Ludwig provide useful, real-world knowledge that can be implemented in your work on a daily basis. Interviews with library developers Eric Persing, Doug Rogers, Gary Garritan and Herb Tucmadl (among others) give the reader a look into various aspects of the orchestral library development process as well as a glimpse of the future of the industr

Genres: Music

703 pages, Hardcover

First published August 1, 2004

Reviews

[Andrew]

Essential for all computer-based composers

This is the definitive work for anybody either working with, or considering working with, computer-based orchestration. The text is dense but highly informative, with numerous examples and images to explain the author's in-depth advice.

The complexity of the subject matter makes it unsuitable for continuous reading from start to finish, as Paul Gilreath admits himself, but chapter by chapter it builds into a thorough guide to MIDI orchestration, instrumentation, techniques, and much more.

Highly recommended!

[Cole]

This is an excellent resource that I will return to again and again. It's a great refresher for people familiar with Orchestras, while being accessible to people who aren't. Guides you through the process of trying to make your MIDI instruments sound as realistic as possible while explaining some of the nuts and bolts of why.

[Rachel]

Fantastic base for MIDI orchestration and the tools needed to accomplish projects.