How to have MIDI tracks follow a guitar recording with varying tempos | Club Cubase March 22nd 2022

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of having MIDI tracks follow a guitar recording with varying tempos using Cubase. This technique is essential for musicians who want to create dynamic arrangements that align with live performances or recordings where tempo changes occur.

Step 1: Prepare Your Project

• Open your Cubase project.
• Import your guitar recording into an audio track.
• Ensure that the audio track is properly aligned in the timeline.

Step 2: Enable Tempo Detection

• Right-click on the audio track containing the guitar recording.
• Select "Detect Tempo" from the context menu.
• Cubase will analyze the audio and suggest a tempo map that matches your recording’s fluctuations.

Step 3: Adjust Tempo Map

• Review the detected tempo map in the project window.
• You can manually adjust the tempo changes if necessary:
  • Click on the tempo lane in the project window.
  • Drag tempo points to match significant changes in the guitar recording.

Step 4: Create and Configure MIDI Tracks

• Create a new MIDI track by selecting "Add Track" and choosing "MIDI."
• Select your desired virtual instrument for the MIDI track.
• Ensure that the MIDI track is set to follow the tempo map established by the guitar track.

Step 5: Record or Program MIDI Parts

• Start recording MIDI parts while playing along with the guitar track.
• Alternatively, you can program MIDI notes manually in the MIDI editor:
  • Open the MIDI editor by double-clicking the MIDI track.
  • Use the pencil tool to draw in notes that complement the guitar.

Step 6: Fine-Tune MIDI Performance

• After recording or programming, listen back to the MIDI track alongside the guitar.
• Adjust the MIDI notes for timing or expression:
  • Use quantization to tighten up the timing if needed.
  • Adjust velocity levels for a more expressive performance.

Step 7: Final Mixing and Effects

• Apply any necessary mixing adjustments to balance the guitar and MIDI tracks.
• Consider adding effects such as reverb or delay to the MIDI track to enhance the sound.
• Use automation to emphasize dynamics and transitions throughout the track.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can successfully align MIDI tracks with a guitar recording that features varying tempos in Cubase. This process allows for creative flexibility and enhances the overall quality of your music. Experiment with different MIDI instruments and effects to further refine your project. Happy producing!