How to Be Creative with VST Instruments and the Chord Track | Getting Started with Cubase Pro 9

Introduction

In this tutorial, we'll explore how to harness the power of VST instruments and the Chord Track in Cubase Pro 9. You'll learn how to effectively use MIDI information to control your virtual instruments and enhance your music production skills. This guide is perfect for anyone looking to take their creativity to the next level with Cubase.

Step 1: Setting Up Your VST Instruments

• Open Cubase Pro 9 and create a new project.
• Go to the VST Instruments panel:
  • Click on Devices in the top menu.
  • Select VST Instruments.
• Load your desired VST instrument:
  • Click the Add Instrument button.
  • Choose from the list of available VSTs and click OK.
• Assign MIDI tracks to your VST instrument:
  • Right-click on the instrument track and select Add MIDI Track.
  • Set the output of the MIDI track to your loaded VST.

Step 2: Using MIDI Editors

• Open the MIDI editor for your track:
  • Double-click on the MIDI region to open the Key Editor.
• Edit MIDI notes:
  • Use the pencil tool to draw notes.
  • Adjust note lengths and velocities to shape your sound.
• Experiment with different note placements to create unique melodies.

Step 3: Introducing the Chord Track

• Enable the Chord Track:
  • Go to the Project menu and select Add Chord Track.
• Input chords:
  • Click on the Chord Track and use the pencil tool to draw in chords.
  • You can also input chords using your MIDI keyboard.
• Utilize Chord Track features:
  • Use the Chord Assistant to explore chord options.
  • Experiment with chord progressions by dragging chords to see how they affect your MIDI tracks.

Step 4: Integrating VST Instruments with the Chord Track

• Link your MIDI tracks to the Chord Track:
  • Select the MIDI track, then go to the Inspector panel.
  • Set the input to the Chord Track by selecting it from the dropdown menu.
• Play the Chord Track:
  • Press play in Cubase to hear how your VST instruments respond to the chords.
• Adjust chord voicings and inversions to create depth in your compositions.

Step 5: Experimenting and Finalizing Your Composition

• Explore different VST presets:
  • Browse through the presets in your VST instrument to find sounds that inspire you.
• Layer multiple VST instruments:
  • Add more MIDI tracks and assign different VSTs for a richer sound.
• Record your final composition:
  • Once satisfied with your arrangement, go to File and select Export to bounce your track.

Conclusion

You've now learned how to creatively use VST instruments and the Chord Track in Cubase Pro 9. By setting up your VSTs, utilizing MIDI editing, and integrating the Chord Track, you can enhance your music production workflow significantly. Experiment with different sounds and chord progressions to discover new musical ideas. Happy producing!