Chord Progressions in Cubase - FAST and EASY

Introduction

In this tutorial, we will explore how to create chord progressions quickly and easily in Cubase, regardless of your musical background. Whether you’re unfamiliar with music theory, don’t play an instrument, or lack a MIDI controller, Cubase offers powerful tools to help you craft your music seamlessly.

Step 1: Accessing Chord Pads

• Open Cubase and locate the Chord Pads feature.
• If you can’t find Chord Pads, follow these steps to open the Lower Zone:
  • Go to the top menu and click on "View."
  • Select "Lower Zone" and then choose "Chord Pads."

Step 2: Loading Chord Pad Presets

• Once you have the Chord Pads open, you can load presets.
• Click on the preset menu within the Chord Pads window.
• Select from available chord progressions that match your style.

Step 3: Creating a Chord Progression

• Set up a drum groove to accompany your chords.
• With the drum track playing, click on the Chord Pads to trigger chords.
• Experiment with different combinations to create a unique progression.

Step 4: Changing Chord Voicings

• To modify the voicings of your chords:
  • Click on the chord in the Chord Pad.
  • Use the voicing options to adjust the chord structure to your preference.

Step 5: Dragging and Dropping Chord Progressions

• You can easily drag and drop chords from the Chord Pads into your project timeline.
• This allows you to rearrange your chord progressions effortlessly.

Step 6: Adding Chord Track Symbols

• To enhance your chord track, add symbols for each chord:
  • Right-click on the chord in the Chord Track.
  • Choose "Add Symbol" to label your chords for better organization.

Step 7: Editing Chords in Chord Track

• Navigate to the Chord Track to edit specific chords.
• Click on a chord to open its properties.
• You can adjust the notes or replace it with a different chord as needed.

Step 8: Using Chord Assistant

• Access the Chord Assistant feature for additional chord suggestions.
• This tool helps you find chords that work well together based on your existing progressions.

Step 9: Finding Chords with Circle of Fifths

• In the Chord Assistant, utilize the Circle of Fifths to discover related chords.
• This visual tool aids in understanding chord relationships and makes it easier to find compatible options.

Step 10: Creating MIDI from Chord Track

• To convert your chord track into MIDI:
  • Select the chord track and choose "Create MIDI from Chord Track" from the menu.
  • This will generate a MIDI track that mirrors your chord progression.

Step 11: Making Changes in the MIDI Editor

• Open the MIDI editor to fine-tune your generated MIDI notes.
• You can adjust the timing, velocity, and other parameters to enhance your progression.

Step 12: Adding Additional Chords to Chord Pad

• You can expand your Chord Pads by adding more chords:
  • Click on the "Add Chord" button within the Chord Pads interface.
  • Input the desired chords to enrich your palette.

Step 13: Changing Instruments

• After setting up your chord progressions, experiment with different instruments.
• Click on the instrument track and select from Cubase’s library to find the right sound for your chords.

Conclusion

You now have a comprehensive guide to creating chord progressions in Cubase with ease. By using the Chord Pads, Chord Assistant, and MIDI tools, you can explore your creativity without needing extensive music theory knowledge. Start experimenting with these features, and let your musical ideas come to life!