Technical Information

I create my scores and my reference recordings using Finale from makemusic. I use the Garritan Orchestral Instruments and effects included in Finale to create the audio files. I find that paying close attention to the 'human feel' playback settings helps make the recording sound more lifelike. My sound card is the MOTU (Mark of the Unicorn) M4. I am running WIndows 11 on an ASUS MICRO PC. My DAW is MOTU's Performer Lite and I occasionally use it to enhance MIDI files made with Finale or to make demos to prepare for live performances.

I use standard 'point and click' and speedy entry using the qwerty keyboard and a occasionally a MIDI keyboard. Memorizing the number key shortcuts makes a big difference in the efficiency of my note entry.

For studio monitors, I am using an older Yamaha 5.1 receiver/amp with a Yamaha subwoofer a Klipsch centre channel speaker and Harman Kardon right and left bookshelf speakers, sometimes with my older AKG headphones.

 For in-studio practice/lessons/rehearsals I am now using a Yamaha P-525 Digital Piano. It is a nice addition to the overall setup. I currently have my Yamaha P-125 Digital Piano available for sale on Kijiji. 

I also use the Yamaha P-525 Digital Piano to trigger my Yamaha Reface YC for more complex organ sounds especially when performing live.

I have been using Finale since 1999 when I was provided with a copy thanks to an Ontario Ministry of Education site license purchase. At the time, school Music teachers were encouraged to use it as an educational resource. I had previously been using an early version of MOTU's Performer software and found it difficult to learn Finale at first. I am still learning features of Finale but am becoming quite adept at using it after many many hours of practice.