Icon Instructor Jerry “BigJerr” DiPhillippo takes you into Ableton Live 10 and demonstrates how to layer sounds. Learn how to create a fuller, more vibrant vibe using chord extensions and stacked instrument layers. Includes FREE Ableton Live Project download!
How to Layer Sounds
Layering is an essential technique that involves combining multiple sound sources to create a bigger, more present sound. Moreover, layering samples and instruments add depth and texture which often sounds much fuller and interesting than single sound sources.
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However, stacking multiple sounds together without proper sound selection and processing can produce undesired results. Effective layering involves choosing different timbres that work well with each other without causing clarity issues, frequency masking, and phase cancellation. It’s also important to select sounds that fill out the frequency spectrum. Furthermore, great sounding layer stacks are mixed and processed together to create rich, cohesive sound.
Working with Layered Sounds
In this second episode of a two-part series, BigJerr introduces some creative layering techniques. Expanding on the extended chord progression he created in part one, BigJerr shows you how to build out a layered group of instruments to achieve a fuller, more vibrant sound.
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BigJerr kicks things off by reviewing the chord extensions he built in episode one. He also explains how to use the chord progression to create a ‘Blueprint’ foundation for his layered orchestral group. He then breaks down the separate note layers that make up his extended chords and explains how to assign different instruments to them. Lastly, BigJerr demonstrates how to stack the multiple instrument layers in a group and process them to create a bold, cohesive sound.