Absolute Jest Alternate Tuning Software

JOHN ADAMS

ABSOLUTE JEST
Tuning Module — for harp and piano — Mac Application (OSX) ONLY!!!!

IMPORTANT – This software will only run on Apple OSX equipped devices (such as laptops and desktops) and WILL NOT RUN on iOS or Android devices, or full versions of Microsoft Windows.

Please download the archive file “ADAMS-Absolute-Jest-Tuner.hqx” at:

login as public, no password:
http://shareit.boosey.com

follow path:
public > samples > JohnAdams-Software > Absolute-Jest-Tuner

Next, download and install the Cycling74 Max Runtime OSX application – http://cycling74.com/downloads/runtime/

Next, launch our tuning application by double-clicking on the “ADAMS-Absolute-Jest-Tuner” icon – to be used for Absolute Jest alternate harp and piano tunings only.

ABSOLUTE JEST
Tuning Table @ Base 440Hz:

C: 264.40
C#: 276.80
D: 295.20
D#: 316.00
E: 330.50
F: 352.70
F#: 368.30
G: 394.70
G#: 412.80
A: 441.90
A#: 472.80
B: 494.70
C: 528.80

The file you download from Boosey should automatically uncompress with StuffIt Expander. If not, follow the following link to download the StuffIt application, then you must install it on your Mac.

http://my.smithmicro.com/mac/stuffitexpander/download.html

Once uncompressed, a folder will be created “ADAMS-Absolute-Jest-Tuner”. Inside that folder will be the application. Simply double click on it, and it will launch.

Press the spacebar, and you should begin to hear a plucked harp sample, with a sustained drone waveform. Once you hear it, you can simply press any note on the graphic keyboard register above. Please note, the app defaults to the Absolute Jest alternate tuning. If you would like equal temperament pull down “select temperament” – and select equal temperament.

This app includes base frequencies from 400Hz through 445Hz. Please select appropriate base frequency in relation to the orchestra’s base tuning.

Just below the temperament and base freq area you will notice a readout of the alternate tuning freq – it’s simply a readout although you can grab any of the numbers on the alternate tuning freq box side and drag them up or down to hear frequency change. Also, you will notice MIDI Note Number and Pitch readouts.

You can modify the drone waveform timbre by simply clicking on the little preset boxes, or grab a frequency band and drag up or down. Visual waveform readout is below.

On the right of the application you will notice a mix selection between drone/sine mix and plucked harp sample.

Below, set the harp pluck time, longer or shorter intervals between plucks.

Far right are tuning tables and RESET, if needed!

Contact Mark Grey with questions:
mhgrey@earthlink.net

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Fearful Symmetries Tech Specs

Fearful Symmetries – two keyboard musicians:

• SYNTHESIZER: performs on TOP and BOTTOM sampler keyboard registers
• SAMPLER: performs single sampler register only.

Two options:

OPTION #1:

1.) Kurzweil sampler version:

SYNTHESIZER MUSICIAN – Performs on TOP and BOTTOM keyboard registers

• 1 x (BOTTOM) Kurzweil K2500X (or K2600X/K2661X) 88-note keyboard version –  with minimum 16Mb sample RAM
• 1 x (TOP) 88-note master keyboard controller (Kurzweil PC88 or PC2X/PC3X recommended)
• 1 x keyboard combination amplifier (amp and speaker together) –  with 15 inch speaker driver, or larger. Roland KC-550 recommended.
• 1 x double-tier keyboard stand to hold TOP and BOTTOM keyboards.
• 1 x Iomega 100Mb (or 250Mb) external SCSI ZIP drive, with SCSI cable.
• 1 x audio volume pedal (Ernie Ball 6165 recommended)
• 1 x sustain pedal for Kurzweil sampler
• 4 x 15ft 1/4” jack cables to connect sampler to pedal, then onto combi amp
• Several AC power strips and AC extensions for samplers and combi amps

SAMPLER MUSICIAN

• 1 x Kurzweil K2500X (or K2600X/K2661X) 88-note keyboard version –  with minimum 8Mb sample RAM
• 1 x keyboard combination amplifier (amp and speaker together) –  with 15 inch speaker driver, or larger. Roland KC-550 recommended.
• 1 x single-tier keyboard stand
• 1 x audio volume pedal (Ernie Ball 6165 recommended)
• 1 x sustain pedal for Kurzweil sampler
• 4 x 15ft 1/4” jack cables to connect sampler to pedal, then onto combi amp
• Several AC power strips and AC extensions for samplers and combi amps

OPTION #2:

2.) Native Instruments Kontakt software sampler:

Please contact Boosey & Hawkes to obtain custom software

Kontakt MUST BE PURCHASED (approx $400 USD). Please visit http://www.native-instruments.com

Kontakt CANNOT be fully downloaded and purchased from the Native Instruments website, as most products now allow. It is NOT ready for immediate use. You must purchase the software, online or not, where the factory/distributor THEN ships you the software media (the sealed DVDs containing the serial numbers). The download version of Kontakt is the demo version which will only run for minutes, then quit. If you choose this method for performance please leave enough time to obtain the software via standard/express shipping methods.

If you use alternative software samplers, there are programs available to convert our Kontakt Multi/Instruments into one of several destination formats. One such program is CDXtract (http://www.cdxtract.com/) – available for Mac/PC, and for purchase –> approx $140 USD. Please note, there is no guarantee any translation program will convert perfectly. Possible issues experienced could be problems in loop times/directions, sample truncation, audio routing, etc… So, explore this option at your own risk.

Kontakt Equipment List:

We highly recommend obtaining a “sampler technician” for your production. This person can help setup and troubleshoot the electronic instrument environment.

• Full running Mac/PC version of Kontakt
• High-performance Mac/PC computer with ample memory and hard disk space. Slower computer systems will increase the chance of unwanted latency.
• High-performance, and multi-output, computer audio interface compatible with above computer system. Less quality interfaces will increase the chance of unwanted latency. Outputs 1+2 used for SYNTH, outputs 3+4 used for SAMPLER.
• High-performance, multi-port, MIDI interface compatible with above computer system. Less quality interfaces will increase the chance of unwanted latency. Port A for SYNTH, Port 3 for SAMPLER.
• For SYNTHESIZER Player: Two 88-note master keyboard controllers able to send program change and sustain pedal control. SYNTH “TOP” sends MIDI Channel 1, SYNTH “BOTTOM” sends MIDI Channel 2.
• For SAMPLER Player: One 88-note master keyboard controller able to send program change and sustain pedal control on MIDI Channel 3.
• One double-tier keyboard stand to hold the two SYNTH master controllers – TOP and BOTTOM; and one singe-tier keyboard stands to hold SAMPLER master controller.
• Two keyboard combination amplifiers – to amplify SYNTH and SAMPLER Kontakt patches.
• Two audio volume pedals (not CC pedal) to connect audio interface outputs to the respective keyboard combination amps. One pedal per musician.
• Two sustain pedals, one for each musician.
• All cables (MIDI, audio, AC power) to connect and power the above equipment.

Note, all Fearful Symmetries patches (and sustain pedal control) in Kontakt are assigned as follows:
SYNTH TOP patches/sustain on MIDI Channel 1, audio routes to audio interface outputs 1+2;
SYNTH BOTTOM patches/sustain on MIDI Channel 2, audio routes to audio interface outputs 1+2.
SAMPLER patches/sustain on MIDI Channel 3, audio routes to audio interface outputs 3+4.

Program your master controllers appropriately, as well as configure Kontakt’s mixer output to SYNTH = outs 1+2, SAMP = outs 3+4.

General Sound Reinforcement Notes:

Sampler players should not be amplified through main loudspeaker system. The sampler sound is to be amplified through the above recommended keyboard combination amplifier and should seem “acoustic” within the context of the orchestra.

Technical issues please contact Mark Grey, Sound Designer for John Adams: mhgrey@earthlink.net

Start a Fearful Symmetries Dialogue

Please comment on your Fearful Symmetries experiences

Start a Klinghoffer Dialogue

Please comment on your Klinghoffer experiences

Death of Klinghoffer (Full Opera) Tech Specs

Death of Klinghoffer (Full Opera) Tech Specs

At the time of this April 2010 posting, the electronic musicians’ environment is being revised. Please be in direct contact with Mark Grey regarding details. Full specs will be posted here when the revisions are complete.

Mark Grey – mhgrey@earthlink.net

Start a Nixon In China Dialogue

Please comment on your Nixon in China experiences

Nixon In China Tech Specs

Nixon in China

Three keyboard musicians:

• Keyboard I: performs acoustic grand piano.
• Keyboard II: performs acoustic grand piano.
• HX keyboard musician: performs two master keyboard controllers, named TOP and BOTTOM, without bass pedals. Note: The original HX keyboard musician utilized a Yamaha HX-1 Electone which has been discontinued by Yamaha manufacturing. The sampler and keyboard controllers below replace the original two keyboard, with bass pedals, HX synthesizer.

Two options:

1.) Kurzweil sampler version:

• 1 x Kurzweil K2500X, K2600X, K2661X (with minimum 64Mb RAM) keyboard version
• 1 x Six-octave MIDI Master Controller*
• 1 x Program Change Footpedal**
• 1 x stereo keyboard combination amplifier (Roland KC-550 recommended)
• 1 x double-tier keyboard stand
• 1 x audio volume pedal (Ernie Ball 6165 recommended)
• 1 x sustain pedal (for Kurzweil)
• 1 x Iomega 100Mb (or 250Mb) external SCSI ZIP drive, with SCSI cable.
• Also needed: audio cables and AC power cables to connect everything

* Six-octave MIDI master keyboard controller: Must be able to sequentially and contiguously program
change up/down a minimum of 32 patch positions. Each master controller must be able to merge MIDI OUT
and MIDI THRU data (such as the Kurzweil PC88). Also, each master controller is on a different MIDI
channel. Kurzweil PC88 recommended.

** Program change footpedals: Either inc/dec or MIDI programmable will be appropriate depending on
the model and type of master controller used. For example: inc/dec pedal could be used with Kurzweil PC88
master controllers where a MIDI programmable footpedal must be used with a Yamaha KX88.
Note: The HX keyboard musician must use a footpedal and not master controller front-panel buttons,
or an infinity wheel, because program changes occur between bars, within performed notation, and
while both hands are performing simultaneuosly.

2.) Native Instruments Kontakt software sampler:

Please contact Boosey & Hawkes to obtain custom software

Kontakt MUST BE PURCHASED (approx $400 USD). Please visit http://www.native-instruments.com

Kontakt CANNOT be fully downloaded and purchased from the Native Instruments website, as most products now allow. It is NOT ready for immediate use. You must purchase the software, online or not, where the factory/distributor THEN ships you the software media (the sealed DVDs containing the serial numbers). The download version of Kontakt is the demo version which will only run for minutes, then quit. If you choose this method for performance please leave enough time to obtain the software via standard/express shipping methods.

If you use alternative software samplers, there are programs available to convert our Kontakt Multi/Instruments into one of several destination formats. One such program is CDXtract (http://www.cdxtract.com/) – available for Mac/PC, and for purchase –> approx $140 USD. Please note, there is no guarantee any translation program will convert perfectly. Possible issues experienced could be problems in loop times/directions, sample truncation, audio routing, etc… So, explore this option at your own risk.

Kontakt Equipment List:

We highly recommend obtaining a “sampler technician” for your production. This person can help setup and troubleshoot the electronic instrument environment.

• Full running Mac/PC version of Kontakt
• High-performance Mac/PC computer with ample memory and hard disk space. Slower computer systems will increase the chance of unwanted latency.
• High-performance, multi-output, computer audio interface compatible with above computer system. Less quality interfaces will increase the chance of unwanted latency.
• High-performance, multi-port, MIDI interface compatible with above computer system. Less quality interfaces will increase the chance of unwanted latency.
• Two 88-note master keyboard controller able to send program change and sustain pedal control on multiple MIDI channels simultaneously.
• One double-tier keyboard stand to hold master controller.
• Keyboard combination amplifier – to amplify the Kontakt patches.
• One audio volume pedal (not CC pedal) to connect audio interface output to the keyboard combination amp.
• One sustain pedal to connect to the master controller.
• All cables (MIDI, audio, AC power) to connect and power the above equipment.

Note, Nixon in China patches (and sustain pedal control) in Kontakt are assigned as follows: TOP receives MIDI Channel 1, BOTTOM receives MIDI Channel 2. Program your master controllers appropriately.

General Sound Reinforcement Notes:

HX Musician’s Kurzweil could be amplified through main loudspeaker system, depending if the production is staged, concert version, or generally sound reinforced. The sampler sound is mostly to be amplified through the above recommended keyboard combination amplifier and should seem “acoustic” within the context of the orchestra, and production.

Technical issues please contact Mark Grey, Sound Designer for John Adams: mhgrey@earthlink.net

Start a Scratchband Dialogue

Please comment on your Scratchband experiences

Scratchband (revised) Tech Specs

Scratchband (revised)

Two keyboard musicians:

• Keyboard I: performs acoustic grand piano.
• Keyboard II: performs sampler.

Changes from original version:

• Keyboard I no longer performs on sampler, though still performs on acoustic grand piano.
• Keyboard II remains on sampler.

Two options for KEYBOARD II Musician:

1.) Version for Kurzweil hardware sampler

Equipment List:

• 1 x Kurzweil K2000, K2500, K2600, K2661 (with minimum 8Mb RAM)
• 1 x stereo keyboard combination amplifier (Roland KC-550 recommended)
• 1 x single-tier keyboard stand
• 1 x audio volume pedal (Ernie Ball 6165 recommended)
• 1 x sustain pedal (for Kurzweil)
• 1 x Iomega 100Mb (or 250Mb) external SCSI ZIP drive, with SCSI cable.
• Also needed: audio cables and AC power cables to connect everything

2.) Version for Native Instruments Kontakt software sampler

Please contact Boosey & Hawkes to obtain custom software

Kontakt MUST BE PURCHASED (approx $400 USD). Please visit http://www.native-instruments.com

Kontakt CANNOT be fully downloaded and purchased from the Native Instruments website, as most products now allow. It is NOT ready for immediate use. You must purchase the software, online or not, where the factory/distributor THEN ships you the software media (the sealed DVDs containing the serial numbers). The download version of Kontakt is the demo version which will only run for minutes, then quit. If you choose this method for performance please leave enough time to obtain the software via standard/express shipping methods.

If you use alternative software samplers, there are programs available to convert our Kontakt Multi/Instruments into one of several destination formats. One such program is CDXtract (http://www.cdxtract.com/) – available for Mac/PC, and for purchase –> approx $140 USD. Please note, there is no guarantee any translation program will convert perfectly. Possible issues experienced could be problems in loop times/directions, sample truncation, audio routing, etc… So, explore this option at your own risk.

Kontakt Equipment List:

We highly recommend obtaining a “sampler technician” for your production. This person can help setup and troubleshoot the electronic instrument environment.

• Full running Mac/PC version of Kontakt
• High-performance Mac/PC computer with ample memory and hard disk space. Slower computer systems will increase the chance of unwanted latency.
• High-performance, multi-output, computer audio interface compatible with above computer system. Less quality interfaces will increase the chance of unwanted latency.
• High-performance, multi-port, MIDI interface compatible with above computer system. Less quality interfaces will increase the chance of unwanted latency.
• One 88-note master keyboard controller able to send program change and sustain pedal control on MIDI Channel 1.
• One single-tier keyboard stand to hold master controller.
• Keyboard combination amplifier – to amplify the Kontakt patches.
• One audio volume pedal (not CC pedal) to connect audio interface output to the keyboard combination amp.
• One sustain pedal to connect to the master controller.
• All cables (MIDI, audio, AC power) to connect and power the above equipment.

Note, all Keyboard II patches (and sustain pedal control) are assigned to MIDI Channel 1 in Kontakt. Program your master controller appropriately.

General Sound Reinforcement Notes:

Keyboard II Musician should not be amplified through main loudspeaker system. The sampler sound is to be amplified through the above recommended keyboard combination amplifier and should seem “acoustic” within the context of the orchestra.

Technical issues please contact Mark Grey, Sound Designer for John Adams: mhgrey@earthlink.net

Start a Naive and Sentimental Music Dialogue

Please comment on your Naive and Sentimental Music experiences

Naive and Sentimental Music Tech Specs

Naive and Sentimental Music – one keyboard musician – SAMPLER

Two options for production:

1.) Kurzweil sampler version:

• 1 x Kurzweil K2000 v3, K2500, K2600, K2661 (with minimum 8Mb RAM)
• 1 x stereo keyboard combination amplifier (Roland KC-550 recommended)
• 1 x single-tier keyboard stand
• 1 x audio volume pedal (Ernie Ball 6165 recommended)
• 1 x sustain pedal (for Kurzweil)
• 1 x Iomega 100Mb (or 250Mb) external SCSI ZIP drive, with SCSI cable.
• Also needed: audio cables and AC power cables to connect everything

2.) Native Instruments Kontakt software sampler:

Please contact Boosey & Hawkes to obtain custom software

Kontakt MUST BE PURCHASED (approx $400 USD). Please visit http://www.native-instruments.com

Kontakt CANNOT be fully downloaded and purchased from the Native Instruments website, as most products now allow. It is NOT ready for immediate use. You must purchase the software, online or not, where the factory/distributor THEN ships you the software media (the sealed DVDs containing the serial numbers). The download version of Kontakt is the demo version which will only run for minutes, then quit. If you choose this method for performance please leave enough time to obtain the software via standard/express shipping methods.

If you use alternative software samplers, there are programs available to convert our Kontakt Multi/Instruments into one of several destination formats. One such program is CDXtract (http://www.cdxtract.com/) – available for Mac/PC, and for purchase –> approx $140 USD. Please note, there is no guarantee any translation program will convert perfectly. Possible issues experienced could be problems in loop times/directions, sample truncation, audio routing, etc… So, explore this option at your own risk.

Kontakt Equipment List:

We highly recommend obtaining a “sampler technician” for your production. This person can help setup and troubleshoot the electronic instrument environment.

• Full running Mac/PC version of Kontakt
• High-performance Mac/PC computer with ample memory and hard disk space. Slower computer systems will increase the chance of unwanted latency.
• High-performance, multi-output, computer audio interface compatible with above computer system. Less quality interfaces will increase the chance of unwanted latency.
• High-performance, multi-port, MIDI interface compatible with above computer system. Less quality interfaces will increase the chance of unwanted latency.
• One 88-note master keyboard controller able to send program change and sustain pedal control on MIDI Channel 1.
• One single-tier keyboard stand to hold master controller.
• Keyboard combination amplifier – to amplify the Kontakt patches.
• One audio volume pedal (not CC pedal) to connect audio interface output to the keyboard combination amp.
• One sustain pedal to connect to the master controller.
• All cables (MIDI, audio, AC power) to connect and power the above equipment.

Note, all NAIVE patches (and sustain pedal control) in Kontakt are assigned to MIDI Channel 1. Program your master controller appropriately.

General Sound Reinforcement Notes:

Synthesizer Musician should not be amplified through main loudspeaker system. The sampler sound is to be amplified through the above recommended keyboard combination amplifier and should seem “acoustic” within the context of the orchestra.

Technical issues please contact Mark Grey, Sound Designer for John Adams: mhgrey@earthlink.net

Start a Slonimsky’s Earbox Dialogue

Please comment on your Slonimsky’s Earbox experiences

Slonimsky’s Earbox Tech Specs

Slonimsky’s Earbox – one keyboard musician – SAMPLER

Two options:

1.) Kurzweil sampler version:

• 1 x Kurzweil K2000, K2500, K2600, K2661 (with minimum 4Mb RAM)
• 1 x stereo keyboard combination amplifier (Roland KC-550 recommended)
• 1 x single-tier keyboard stand
• 1 x audio volume pedal (Ernie Ball 6165 recommended)
• 1 x sustain pedal (for Kurzweil)
• Also needed: audio cables and AC power cables to connect everything

2.) Native Instruments Kontakt software sampler:

Please contact Boosey & Hawkes to obtain custom software

Kontakt MUST BE PURCHASED (approx $400 USD). Please visit http://www.native-instruments.com

Kontakt CANNOT be fully downloaded and purchased from the Native Instruments website, as most products now allow. It is NOT ready for immediate use. You must purchase the software, online or not, where the factory/distributor THEN ships you the software media (the sealed DVDs containing the serial numbers). The download version of Kontakt is the demo version which will only run for minutes, then quit. If you choose this method for performance please leave enough time to obtain the software via standard/express shipping methods.

If you use alternative software samplers, there are programs available to convert our Kontakt Multi/Instruments into one of several destination formats. One such program is CDXtract (http://www.cdxtract.com/) – available for Mac/PC, and for purchase –> approx $140 USD. Please note, there is no guarantee any translation program will convert perfectly. Possible issues experienced could be problems in loop times/directions, sample truncation, audio routing, etc… So, explore this option at your own risk.

Kontakt Equipment List:

We highly recommend obtaining a “sampler technician” for your production. This person can help setup and troubleshoot the electronic instrument environment.

• Full running Mac/PC version of Kontakt
• High-performance Mac/PC computer with ample memory and hard disk space. Slower computer systems will increase the chance of unwanted latency.
• High-performance, multi-output, computer audio interface compatible with above computer system. Less quality interfaces will increase the chance of unwanted latency.
• High-performance, multi-port, MIDI interface compatible with above computer system. Less quality interfaces will increase the chance of unwanted latency.
• One 88-note master keyboard controller able to send program change and sustain pedal control on MIDI Channel 1.
• One single-tier keyboard stand to hold master controller.
• Keyboard combination amplifier – to amplify the Kontakt patches.
• One audio volume pedal (not CC pedal) to connect audio interface output to the keyboard combination amp.
• One sustain pedal to connect to the master controller.
• All cables (MIDI, audio, AC power) to connect and power the above equipment.

Note, all Slonimsky’s Earbox patches (and sustain pedal control) in Kontakt are assigned to MIDI Channel 1. Program your master controller appropriately.

General Sound Reinforcement Notes:

SAMPLER Musician should not be amplified through main loudspeaker system. The sampler sound is to be amplified through the above recommended keyboard combination amplifier and should seem “acoustic” within the context of the orchestra.

Technical issues please contact Mark Grey, Sound Designer for John Adams: mhgrey@earthlink.net

Start a Short Ride Dialogue

Please comment on your Short Ride experiences

Short Ride In A Fast Machine Tech Specs

Short Ride – two OPTIONAL keyboard musicians:

• Synthesizer I: performs on keyboard sampler
• Synthesizer II: performs on keyboard sampler

The two keyboard parts should be synthesizers, or keyboard samplers, with a bright brassy sound.

General Sound Reinforcement Notes:

The synthesizer players should not be amplified through a main house loudspeaker system. The keyboard sampler sounds should be amplified through a keyboard combination amplifier and should seem “acoustic” within the context of the orchestra.

Technical issues please contact Mark Grey, Sound Designer for John Adams: mhgrey@earthlink.net

Start an El Niño Dialogue

Please comment on your El Niño experiences

El Niño Tech Specs

El Niño – one keyboard musician – SAMPLER

Two options:

1.) Kurzweil sampler version:

• 1 x Kurzweil K2500, K2600, K2661 (with minimum 64Mb RAM)
• 1 x stereo keyboard combination amplifier (Roland KC-550 recommended)
• 1 x single-tier keyboard stand
• 1 x audio volume pedal (Ernie Ball 6165 recommended)
• 1 x sustain pedal (for Kurzweil)
• 1 x Iomega 100Mb (or 250Mb) external SCSI ZIP drive, with SCSI cable.
• Also needed: audio cables and AC power cables to connect everything

2.) Native Instruments Kontakt software sampler:

Please contact Boosey & Hawkes to obtain custom software

Kontakt MUST BE PURCHASED (approx $400 USD). Please visit http://www.native-instruments.com

Kontakt CANNOT be fully downloaded and purchased from the Native Instruments website, as most products now allow. It is NOT ready for immediate use. You must purchase the software, online or not, where the factory/distributor THEN ships you the software media (the sealed DVDs containing the serial numbers). The download version of Kontakt is the demo version which will only run for minutes, then quit. If you choose this method for performance please leave enough time to obtain the software via standard/express shipping methods.

If you use alternative software samplers, there are programs available to convert our Kontakt Multi/Instruments into one of several destination formats. One such program is CDXtract (http://www.cdxtract.com/) – available for Mac/PC, and for purchase –> approx $140 USD. Please note, there is no guarantee any translation program will convert perfectly. Possible issues experienced could be problems in loop times/directions, sample truncation, audio routing, etc… So, explore this option at your own risk.

Kontakt Equipment List:

We highly recommend obtaining a “sampler technician” for your production. This person can help setup and troubleshoot the electronic instrument environment.

• Full running Mac/PC version of Kontakt
• High-performance Mac/PC computer with ample memory and hard disk space. Slower computer systems will increase the chance of unwanted latency.
• High-performance, multi-output, computer audio interface compatible with above computer system. Less quality interfaces will increase the chance of unwanted latency.
• High-performance, multi-port, MIDI interface compatible with above computer system. Less quality interfaces will increase the chance of unwanted latency.
• One 88-note master keyboard controller able to send program change and sustain pedal control on MIDI Channel 1.
• One single-tier keyboard stand to hold master controller.
• Keyboard combination amplifier – to amplify the Kontakt patches.
• One audio volume pedal (not CC pedal) to connect audio interface output to the keyboard combination amp.
• One sustain pedal to connect to the master controller.
• All cables (MIDI, audio, AC power) to connect and power the above equipment.

Note, all El Niño patches (and sustain pedal control) in Kontakt are assigned to MIDI Channel 1. Program your master controller appropriately.

General Sound Reinforcement Notes:

SAMPLER Musician should not be amplified through main loudspeaker system. The sampler sound is to be amplified through the above recommended keyboard combination amplifier and should seem “acoustic” within the context of the orchestra.

Technical issues please contact Mark Grey, Sound Designer for John Adams: mhgrey@earthlink.net

Start an El Dorado Dialogue

Please comment on your El Dorado experiences

El Dorado Tech Specs

El Dorado – two keyboard musicians:

• Synthesizer I: performs on sampler
• Synthesizer II: performs on sampler

There are two performance options: 1.) Kurzweil sampler or, 2.) Native Instruments Kontakt software sampler.

Version for Kurzweil sampler:

Equipment List:

• 2 x Kurzweil K2000 (or K2500X/K2600X/K2661X) 88-note keyboard version – each with minimum 8Mb sample RAM
• 2 x keyboard combination amplifiers (amp and speaker together) – each with 15 inch speaker driver, or larger. Roland KC-550 recommended.
• 2 x single-tier keyboard stands
• 1 x Iomega 100Mb (or 250Mb) external SCSI ZIP drive, with SCSI cable.
• 2 x audio volume pedals (Ernie Ball 6165 recommended)
• 2 x sustain pedals for Kurzweil samplers
• 4 x 15ft 1/4” jack cables to connect samplers to pedals, then onto combi amps
• Several AC power strips and AC extensions for samplers and combi amps

Version for Kontakt software sampler:

Please contact Boosey & Hawkes to obtain our custom software.

Kontakt MUST BE PURCHASED (approx $400 USD). Please visit http://www.native-instruments.com

Kontakt CANNOT be fully downloaded and purchased from the Native Instruments website, as most products now allow. It is NOT ready for immediate use. You must purchase the software, online or not, where the factory/distributor THEN ships you the software media (the sealed DVDs containing the serial numbers). The download version of Kontakt is the demo version which will only run for minutes, then quit. If you choose this method for performance please leave enough time to obtain the software via standard/express shipping methods.

Due to our custom Just Intonation tuning tables used for most patches in DHARMA, third party software samplers, such as MachFive2 or others which import standard Kontakt Instruments (*.nki), CANNOT be used.

Equipment List:

We highly recommend obtaining a “sampler technician” for your production. This person can help setup and troubleshoot the electronic instrument environment.

• Full running Mac/PC version of Kontakt
• High-performance Mac/PC computer with ample memory and hard disk space. Slower computer systems will increase the chance of unwanted latency.
• High-performance, multi-output, computer audio interface compatible with above computer system. Less quality interfaces will increase the chance of unwanted latency.
• High-performance, multi-port, MIDI interface compatible with above computer system. Less quality interfaces will increase the chance of unwanted latency.
• Two 88-note master keyboard controllers able to send program change and sustain pedal control on MIDI Channel 1.
• Two single-tier keyboard stands to hold each master controller.
• Two keyboard combination amplifiers – to amplify the Kontakt patches.
• Two audio volume pedals (not CC pedal) to connect audio interface output to the keyboard combination amp.
• Two sustain pedals to connect to the master controller.
• All cables (MIDI, audio, AC power) to connect and power the above equipment.

Note, all EL DORADO patches (and sustain pedal control) in Kontakt are assigned as follows: SYNTH 1 patches/sustain on MIDI Channel 1 ; SYNTH 2 patches/sustain on MIDI Channel 2. Program your master controllers appropriately.

Our Kontakt multi’s audio routing as follows: Audio Interface Out 1+2 = SYNTH 1 ; Audio Interface Out 3+4 = SYNTH 2. This should be configured in Kontakt’s “Output” mixer section –> “SAMP1” Outs 1+2 ; “SAMP2” Outs 3+4.

General Sound Reinforcement Notes:

Synthesizer players should not be amplified through main loudspeaker system. Samplers should be amplified through the above recommended keyboard combination amplifier and should seem “acoustic” within the context of the orchestra.

Technical issues please contact Mark Grey, Sound Designer for John Adams: mhgrey@earthlink.net

Start a Ceiling/Sky Dialogue

Please comment on your Ceiling/Sky experiences

Ceiling/Sky Tech Specs

I Was Looking At The Ceiling And Then I Saw The Sky

Four electronic musicians:

• Keyboard I: performs acoustic grand piano and 88-note master controller.
• Keyboard II: performs 88-note master controller.
• Keyboard III: performs 88-note master controller.
• MIDI percussion: performs acoustic trap-set and MIDI percussion controller.

CEILING/SKY SOUND
Five main areas of focus for Ceiling/Sky’s sound technology needs 1.) sound system, 2.) wireless radio mics, 3.) pit musicians, 4.) pit monitoring and 5.) sampler technology

SOUND SYSTEM:
1.) High-quality, full frequency theatrical loudspeaker system covering all seats, on all levels – Meyer Sound, d&b, or Martin Audio. Typical configurations should include similar speaker groupings – Main PA Left/Right, Frontfills, Center Cluster, Under Balcony Fills, Subs, etc.
2.) High-quality digital console – DigiCo, Yamaha, or Midas.
3.) High-quality reverb unit to help blend the reinforced voices and orchestra – Lexicon or TC Electronics.

The style of reinforcement should sound as natural as possible, avoiding the more amplified “Broadway” model.

WIRELESS and AREA MICS:

The wireless should be DPA 4061, or sim., colors depend on casting.

1.) Dewain – DPA color = black
2.) David – DPA color = black
3.) Leila – DPA color = black
4.) Consuelo – DPA color = black
5.) Mike – DPA color = beige
6.) Tiffany – DPA color = beige
7.) Rick – DPA color = black
8.) Spare #1 – DPA color = black
9.) Spare #2 – DPA color = beige
10.) PCC area mic #1 (DSR)
11.) PCC area mic #2 (DSL)

PIT MUSICIANS:

12.) Clarinet/Bass Clarinet – KM150, MK4 or similar
13.) Alto Sax – KM150, MK4 or similar
14.) Acoustic Steel String Guitar – KM150, MK4 or similar
15.) Electric Guitar – D.I. (note, this is the same player as the above acoustic guitar player)
16.) Contrabass – U87 or similar
17.) Electric Bass – D.I. (note, this is the same player as the above contrabass player)
18.) KEY 1 – Grand Piano Low – C414 or similar
19.) KEY 1 – Grand Piano High – C414 or similar
20.) KEY 1 Sampler – Mono D.I.
21.) KEY 2 Sampler  – Mono D.I.
22.) KEY 3 Sampler  – Mono D.I.
23.) MIDI PERCUSSION – Mono D.I.
24.) Percussion Overhead Left – KM150, MK4 or similar
25.) Percussion Overhead Right – KM150, MK4 or similar
26.) Trap Set Snare Drum – SM57
27.) Trap Set Kick Drum – SM or larger diaphragm mic.

MISC:
28+29.) CD Player for testing and setup
30+31.) PCM-91, or sim, reverb

PIT MONITORING:

Mix 1 – Clarinet monitor wedge or UPM on a mic stand
Mix 2 – Alto Sax monitor wedge or UPM on a mic stand
Mix 3 – Guitar monitor wedge or UPM on a mic stand
Mix 4 – Bass monitor wedge or UPM on a mic stand
Mix 5 – KEY 1 monitor wedge or UPM on a mic stand
Mix 6 – KEY 2 monitor wedge or UPM on a mic stand
Mix 7 – KEY 3 monitor wedge or UPM on a mic stand
Mix 8 – PERCUSSION monitor wedge or UPM on a mic stand

SAMPLER TECHNOLOGY:

The production will require:
1.) Two high-quality computers running Kontakt 5, or higher.
2.) Multi-output firewire audio interfaces for each computer, such as a MOTU Ultralite.
3.) MIDI interfaces, or USB hubs, to get master controller performance data into the computers.
4.) Several master controllers with pedals.

KEY 1 + KEY 2 will share Kontakt 5 on a computer #1
Audio Interface Out 1 = KEY 1
Audio Interface Out 3 = KEY 2
KEY 3 + MIDI PERC will share Kontakt 5 on a computer #2
Audio Interface Out 1 = KEY 3
Audio Interface Out 3 = MIDI PERC

MIDI Interfaces/Merges:
KEY 1 + KEY 2 master controllers will need to both send MIDI Out to the computer #1’s MIDI In
KEY 3 + MIDI PERC controllers will need to both send MIDI Out  to the computer #2’s MIDI In

Keyboard Master Controllers:
KEY 1, 2 and 3 should be 88-note keyboard master controllers with the ability to program change up to 128 user setups with a simple inc foot pedal (connected to the master controllers’ switch pedal inputs on the back of the unit).
Kurzweil PC3, or sim., is recommended:
http://kurzweil.com/product/pc3/specs/

MIDI Percussion:
In the past we have used a DrumKAT – http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/drumKATturb/
The percussion player needs to play a ten (10) pad MIDI controller with sticks. Also needed is one (1) electronic kick pedal connected to the rear of the percussion controller. Also note, this 10 pad MIDI percussion controller should fit on a stand to be set inside the acoustic trap set environment – so the player can switch between acoustic and MIDI percussion quickly. Note, make sure the MIDI percussion controller can program change with a simple inc pedal – KAT controllers do, but other alternatives may not, so please check beforehand. Roland Octapad, with additional aux pads/pedals, has been successful in past productions.

Pad to MIDI note layout which corresponds to the musician’s part:

Pad assignment (C4 = middle C). Ten pads plus one MIDI kick pedal.
A#2 (kick drum), E4, F4, G4, A4, B4, C5, D5, E5, F5, G5.

Volume Pedals:
All four electronic musicians should have mono volume pedals, we have used Ernie Ball 6166 in the past:
http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/EB6166/

Sustain Pedals:
KEY 1, KEY 2 and KEY 3 will all require sustain pedals.

Electronic Musicians’ Self-monitoring:
Each of the four players should have a “local” speaker set behind them so the sound feels as if coming from their seat and not only through the larger monitoring system. The speakers should be more full frequency than UPM’s, for the lows.
We have used JBL EON in the past:
http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/EON515XT/
Or, basic keyboard amps can be used, such as Roland KC-550:
http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/KC550/

Connecting the environment, using KEY 1 as example – same for the three other players:
1.) KEY 1 keyboard master controller MIDI Out connects to computer #1 MIDI In
2.) Computer #1 Audio Interface Out 1 connects to volume pedal
3.) Volume pedal connects to D.I. – inst out connects to self-monitoring amp, XLR out then splits (one side to monitor console, the other side to FOH sound)
4.) Simple inc/dec foot pedal connects to master controller’s rear switch pedal input for program changes
5.) Sustain pedal connects to master controller’s other rear switch pedal input for sustain.

Technical issues please contact Mark Grey, Sound Designer for John Adams: mhgrey@earthlink.net

A Good Place To Start

Q: Where’s a good place to start with all of this music technology?

A: The best place to start is here. You will find general FAQ’s regarding the technology used in John’s music.

Start a Wound Dresser Dialogue

Please comment on your Wound Dresser experiences

Wound Dresser Tech Specs

The Wound Dresser – one keyboard musician – SYNTHESIZER

Software downloads, technical specifications and technical contacts for The Wound Dresser can be found at:

REALTIME MUSIC SOLUTIONS

General Sound Reinforcement Notes:

SYNTHESIZER Musician’s patches should not be amplified through main house loudspeaker system. The sampler patches are to be amplified through a keyboard combination amplifier and should seem “acoustic” within the context of the orchestra.

Start a Violin Concerto Dialogue

Please comment on your Violin Concerto experiences

VIolin Concerto Tech Specs

Violin Concerto – two keyboard musicians:

• Synthesizer I: performs K2500 sampler.
• Synthesizer II: performs K2500 sampler.

Two options (original Yamaha SY version not available):

1.) Kurzweil sampler version:

• 2 x Kurzweil K2500X/K2600X/K2661X 88-note keyboard version – each with minimum 4Mb sample RAM
• 2 x keyboard combination amplifiers (amp and speaker together) – each with 15 inch speaker driver, or larger. Roland KC-550 recommended.
• 2 x single-tier keyboard stands
• 1 x Iomega 100Mb (or 250Mb) external SCSI ZIP drive, with SCSI cable, if not loading from supplied floppy disks.
• 2 x audio volume pedals (Ernie Ball 6165 receommended)
• 2 x sustain pedals for Kurzweil samplers
• 4 x 15ft 1/4” jack cables to connect samplers to pedals, then onto combi amps
• Several AC power strips and AC extensions for samplers and combi amps

2.) Native Instruments Kontakt software sampler:

Please contact Boosey & Hawkes to obtain custom software

Kontakt MUST BE PURCHASED (approx $400 USD). Please visit http://www.native-instruments.com

Kontakt CANNOT be fully downloaded and purchased from the Native Instruments website, as most products now allow. It is NOT ready for immediate use. You must purchase the software, online or not, where the factory/distributor THEN ships you the software media (the sealed DVDs containing the serial numbers). The download version of Kontakt is the demo version which will only run for minutes, then quit. If you choose this method for performance please leave enough time to obtain the software via standard/express shipping methods.

If you use alternative software samplers, there are programs available to convert our Kontakt Multi/Instruments into one of several destination formats. One such program is CDXtract (http://www.cdxtract.com/) – available for Mac/PC, and for purchase –> approx $140 USD. Please note, there is no guarantee any translation program will convert perfectly. Possible issues experienced could be problems in loop times/directions, sample truncation, audio routing, etc… So, explore this option at your own risk.

Kontakt Equipment List:

We highly recommend obtaining a “sampler technician” for your production. This person can help setup and troubleshoot the electronic instrument environment.

• Full running Mac/PC version of Kontakt
• High-performance Mac/PC computer with ample memory and hard disk space. Slower computer systems will increase the chance of unwanted latency.
• High-performance, multi-output, computer audio interface compatible with above computer system. Less quality interfaces will increase the chance of unwanted latency.
• High-performance, multi-port, MIDI interface compatible with above computer system. Less quality interfaces will increase the chance of unwanted latency.
• Two 88-note master keyboard controllers able to send program change and sustain pedal control on MIDI Channel 1.
• Two single-tier keyboard stands to hold each master controller.
• Two keyboard combination amplifiers – to amplify the Kontakt patches.
• Two audio volume pedals (not CC pedal) to connect audio interface output to the keyboard combination amp.
• Two sustain pedals to connect to the master controller.
• All cables (MIDI, audio, AC power) to connect and power the above equipment.

Note, all Violin Concerto patches (and sustain pedal control) in Kontakt are assigned as follows: SAMPLER 1 patches/sustain on MIDI Channel 1 ; SAMPLER 2 patches/sustain on MIDI Channel 2. Program your master controllers appropriately. Also, default audio routing is as follows: Audio Interface Out 1+2 = SAMPLER 1 ; Audio Interface Out 3+4 = SAMPLER 2.

General Sound Reinforcement Notes:

Sampler players should not be amplified through main loudspeaker system. The sampler sound is to be amplified through the above recommended keyboard combination amplifier and should seem “acoustic” within the context of the orchestra.

Technical issues please contact Mark Grey, Sound Designer for John Adams: mhgrey@earthlink.net

Start a Gnarly Buttons Dialogue

Please comment on your Gnarly Buttons experiences

Gnarly Buttons Tech Specs

Gnarly Buttons – two keyboard musicians:

• Keyboard I: doubles on sampler and acoustic grand piano.
• Keyboard II: performs sampler only.

Two options:

1.) Kurzweil sampler version:

• 2 x Kurzweil K2000 (or K2500X/K2600X/K2661X) 88-note keyboard version – each with minimum 8Mb sample RAM
• 2 x keyboard combination amplifiers (amp and speaker together) – each with 15 inch speaker driver, or larger. Roland KC-550 recommended.
• 2 x single-tier keyboard stands
• 1 x Iomega 100Mb (or 250Mb) external SCSI ZIP drive, with SCSI cable.
• 2 x audio volume pedals (Ernie Ball 6165 recommended)
• 2 x sustain pedals for Kurzweil samplers
• 4 x 15ft 1/4” jack cables to connect samplers to pedals, then onto combi amps
• Several AC power strips and AC extensions for samplers and combi amps

2.) Native Instruments Kontakt software sampler:

Please contact Boosey & Hawkes to obtain custom software

Kontakt MUST BE PURCHASED (approx $400 USD). Please visit http://www.native-instruments.com

Kontakt CANNOT be fully downloaded and purchased from the Native Instruments website, as most products now allow. It is NOT ready for immediate use. You must purchase the software, online or not, where the factory/distributor THEN ships you the software media (the sealed DVDs containing the serial numbers). The download version of Kontakt is the demo version which will only run for minutes, then quit. If you choose this method for performance please leave enough time to obtain the software via standard/express shipping methods.

If you use alternative software samplers, there are programs available to convert our Kontakt Multi/Instruments into one of several destination formats. One such program is CDXtract (http://www.cdxtract.com/) – available for Mac/PC, and for purchase –> approx $140 USD. Please note, there is no guarantee any translation program will convert perfectly. Possible issues experienced could be problems in loop times/directions, sample truncation, audio routing, etc… So, explore this option at your own risk.

Kontakt Equipment List:

We highly recommend obtaining a “sampler technician” for your production. This person can help setup and troubleshoot the electronic instrument environment.

• Full running Mac/PC version of Kontakt
• High-performance Mac/PC computer with ample memory and hard disk space. Slower computer systems will increase the chance of unwanted latency.
• High-performance, multi-output, computer audio interface compatible with above computer system. Less quality interfaces will increase the chance of unwanted latency.
• High-performance, multi-port, MIDI interface compatible with above computer system. Less quality interfaces will increase the chance of unwanted latency.
• Two 88-note master keyboard controllers able to send program change and sustain pedal control on MIDI Channel 1.
• Two single-tier keyboard stands to hold each master controller.
• Two keyboard combination amplifiers – to amplify the Kontakt patches.
• Two audio volume pedals (not CC pedal) to connect audio interface output to the keyboard combination amp.
• Two sustain pedals to connect to the master controller.
• All cables (MIDI, audio, AC power) to connect and power the above equipment.

Note, all Gnarly Buttons patches (and sustain pedal control) in Kontakt 3 are assigned as follows: SAMPLER 1 patches/sustain on MIDI Channel 1 ; SAMPLER 2 patches/sustain on MIDI Channel 2. Program your master controllers appropriately. Also, default audio routing is as follows: Audio Interface Out 1+2 = SAMPLER 1 ; Audio Interface Out 3+4 = SAMPLER 2.

General Sound Reinforcement Notes:

Sampler players should not be amplified through main loudspeaker system. The sampler sound is to be amplified through the above recommended keyboard combination amplifier and should seem “acoustic” within the context of the orchestra.

Technical issues please contact Mark Grey, Sound Designer for John Adams: mhgrey@earthlink.net

Start a Transmigration of Souls Dialogue

Please comment on your Transmigration of Souls experiences

On the Transmigration of Souls Tech Specs

NOTES

There are two possible versions for playback presentation.

There are five playback cues total.

PLAYBACK FOR SOULS

Version 1 (recommended): consists of a computer driven six-channel surround sound-style presentation. The presenter will be required to obtain all of the equipment+software for this presentation. Boosey will supply a data CD and technical support needed to get the work up and running. The presenter will be required to hire a qualified sound designer/engineer to perform the tasks of various specific setup/performance needs, and who has the ability to read music for the five playback “cues” in the score.

Version 2 (alternate): consists of a two-track mix of the surround playback. It should be broadcast through a high-quality stereo house sound system, two-channels only. The presenter will still be required to hire a sound engineer who reads music for the five playback “cues”. Boosey&Hawkes will supply an audio CD containing the five playback cues.

SURROUND SOUND DETAILS

Six zone surround system (with recommended speaker types) for a 1000 seat house, with no balcony – please adjust if you have balconies and larger seating layout:

Zone 1 + 2 is a Main PA system located onstage with the orchestra. A high-quality stereo house PA running in stereo. Zone 1 = house left,

Zone 2 = house right. One Meyer Sound CQ-1P per side. Subs not needed.

Zone 3 + 4 is a mid-audience surround — Z3=houseleft, Z4=houseright. Speakers should be rigged close to auditorium walls, above audience heads (approx. 6ft above). One Meyer UPA-1P per side.

Zone 5 + 6 is a rear-audience surround — Z5=houseleft, Z6=houseright. Speakers should be rigged close to auditorium walls, above audience heads (approx. 6ft above). One Meyer UPA-1P per side.

Speakers should be placed to have maximum coverage for the audience without cabinets being too close to individual seats – a basic “wash” coverage for each zone is needed, on all seating levels.

PLAYBACK CUES

1 – starts before bar 1
2 – bar 80
3 – bar 120
4 – bar 161
5 – bar 440

GENERAL NOTES

Please contact John Adams’ Sound Designer, Mark Grey (mhgrey@earthlink.net), once the sound engineer has been chosen for the production. Mr. Grey will help work with the production sound engineer to make sure presentation is in good standing.

Start an Alleged Dances Dialogue

Please comment on your Alleged Dances experiences

John’s Book of Alleged Dances Tech Specs

John’s Book of Alleged Dances is a set of ten short dances for string quartet and rhythm loops stored on audio compact disc. Six of the dances have rhythm loops, as seen below:

1. Hammer & Chisel – (rhythm loops – mono version only)
2. Dogjam – (rhythm loops)
3. Alligator Escalator – no cue
4. Pavane: She’s So Fine – no cue
5. Toot Nipple – no cue
6. Habanera – (rhythm loops)
7. Stubble Crotchet – no cue
8. Rag The Bone – (rhythm loops)
9. Ständchen: The Little Serenade – (rhythm loops – mono version only)
10. Judah to Ocean – (rhythm loops)

The audio compact disc supplied by the publisher contains two sets of performance program material for rhythm loop playback, all on the same CD:

* Set 1 (stereo version) contains six compact disc IDs.
* Set 2 (mono version) contains six compact disc IDs which are sequential in order

Note: Hammer & Chisel and Ständchen are the same mono versions for both Set 1 and Set 2 and can only be performed using the click track.

Set 1(stereo version) – first six CD ID’s (#1-6):
Left Channel – Click track on ID #1 and ID #5 only; other IDs are Left Channel of stereo
Right Channel – Right Channel of stereo except for IDs #1 & #5 which contain mono versions

Set 1 Reminder Note: ID #1 & #5 are mono; ID #2, #3, #4, #6 are stereo

Set 2 (mono version) – second six CD ID’s (#7-12):
Left Channel – click track on ID #1 and ID #5 only
Right Channel – full program material in mono

Suggested Sets to Use and Equipment Lists (below):

* Set 1 should be used for studio recording purposes.
* Set 2 should be used for live performance.

The Alleged Dances can be performed live (non-recording situation) in one of two ways:

1.) All Dances EXCEPT Hammer & Chisel and Ständchen utilizing Set 1 – meaning, no headphones are required but utilizing List 2 below.
2.) All Dances utilizing Set 2 and utilizing List 1 below.

General Live Performance Technical Requirements:

Use Either:
List 1:

• 1 x High quality low-noise sound reinforcement system (*NB)
• 4 x Low-profile headphones
• 1 x Headphone amplifier (w/ min. four separate volume controls respective to each headphone)
• 1 x Stereo compact disc player

Or Use:
List 2:

• 1 x High quality low-noise sound reinforcement system (*NB)
• 2-4 x Set of loudspeaker monitors for string quartet
• 1 x Stereo compact disc player

*NB – High quality low-noise sound reinforcement system: Mixing console with minimum sixteen input channels, minimum four auxiliary sends/returns, and sweepable channel equalization; microphones to amplify string quartet, loudspeakers with discrete equalization (suggested systems include Meyer Sound, Apogee, and EAW).

Technical issues please contact Mark Grey, Sound Designer for John Adams: mhgrey@earthlink.net

A Sound Design Reader

Coming…

A Yamaha Synth Reader

Yamaha Synthesizers – SY and HX series – FAQ

______________________________

Q: Can I still use SY77 or SY99 keyboards?

A: Several older works, such as Chamber Symphony, originally called for a Yamaha SY (SY77 or SY99) synthesizers. As this series of Yamaha keyboard is no longer available, we have adapted and migrated the patches to Kurzweil samplers, Kontakt and RMS software samplers. Please visit the individual tech spec pages on this site for the most current options available.

 

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A “Patches” Reader

Coming…

A Kontakt Reader

Native Instruments Kontakt (software sampler) FAQ’s

______________________________

Q: How can I download the custom Kontakt patches for a John Adams work?

A: Once you have set up a score and parts rental with Boosey & Hawkes you will be directed to a download server which contains our custom Kurzweil banks, Native Instruments Kontakt multis/instruments, and soundfiles. Boosey will supply Kurzweil-ready floppy and/or ZIP cartridge media (flavor of media depends on the composition) with the musicians’ parts being shipped, regardless of which format (Kurzweil or Kontakt) you plan to use.

______________________________

 

A Kurzweil Sampler Reader

Kurzweil FAQ’s

______________________________

Q: How can I download the Kurzweil patches/samples for a John Adams work?

A: Once you have set up a score and parts rental with Boosey & Hawkes you will be directed to a download server which contains our custom Kurzweil banks, Native Instruments Kontakt multis/instruments, and soundfiles. Boosey will supply Kurzweil-ready floppy and/or ZIP cartridge media (flavor of media depends on the composition) with the musicians’ parts being shipped, regardless of which format (Kurzweil or Kontakt) you plan to  use.

Note, at the time of this posting, there are more Adams works formatted in the Kurzweil format than in the Kontakt format. This is due to the general time it takes to migrate over to software sampler technology. Please visit the individual tech spec pages on this site to get the most up to date information regarding a specific work.

______________________________

Q: What is a sampler, and why even use it?

A: In short, a sampler allows a musician to store and playback recorded sounds, and attach them to specific keys on a keyboard register. The composer can then write standard keyboard notation in a score where the sonic result might not be a piano or organ sounding. In some cases they might be bowed glasses, ballpark organs, trash can lids, cow moos, and whatever the composer’s mind can imagine. Yes, there is a little technical legwork involved to get these compositions up and running, but the pay off is worth it.

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Q: What are the different Kurzweil sampler models?

A: There are two kinds of Kurzweil sampler, a keyboard version and a rackmount version. We suggest using the keyboard version because everything is self-contained within one unit – sampler brain and keyboard register all together. Models include (chronologically) K2000, K2500, K2600, K2661. In John’s music, there are various sampler configurations and amounts for his various works. Please see the tech specs on this site for individual works.

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Q: What about the Kurzweil PC2X and PC3X?

A: These are MIDI master controllers with internal factory sounds. Yes, the K2000 series houses internal factory sounds too, but the PCxxx series does not accept user samples, e.g. our custom samples, where the K2000 series does.

To read more about Kurzweil products please visit their website.

http://www.kurzweilmusicsystems.com/

______________________________

Q: But, there are no K2000 series products on Kurzweil’s website. Why?

A: Due to the ever changing music technology market, we are seeing hardware samplers (like the K2000 series) being replaced by software samplers, such as Native Instruments Kontakt. Kurzweil seems to be in the “performance controller” phase of their marketing strategy. We’re not sure if the K2000 series will make a come back. To be one step ahead of the game, we are porting all of our custom Kurzweil sampler banks over to the Kontakt software sampler. This does take time and we thank you for your patience while these transfers happen.

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Q: Then where do we find Kurzweil samplers?

A: Most local backline rental companies in major cities (worldwide) seem to have Kurzweil samplers still in stock. If you are striking out, we suggest checking out the “Dealer” page on the above Kurzweil website. The website will return local Kurzweil dealers in your area. If the dealer does not have these products in stock they should know where to look.

http://www.kurzweilmusicsystems.com/Dealers.php

______________________________

Q: Which Kurzweil sampler should be used for which Adams work?

A: Please see the tech specs on this site for each specific work. In short, we originally programmed on the earliest version of K2000, which is upward compatible into the K2500, K2600, and K2661 series. If you have a K2000 (or higher) with the required (again see specific specs) amount of sample RAM, then you should be okay.

Important note, there are three works in John’s catalog which are programmed on the K2500 and will not load properly on the K2000 – Dharma, El Niño, and Klinghoffer (full opera version). This is because of tuning tables and onboard effects which were used to create these works.

______________________________

Q: Why is this all so confusing and difficult? Shouldn’t they just create one product that works for everybody, in every situation?

A: Ah, Utopia. Music technology is run and defined by corporations. In some cases, smaller companies have held their ground and done quite well over the years. The larger firms have divisions in their company which specifically plan “obsolescence.” So, we are seeing a new phase of music going “paperless.”

______________________________

Q: Then why use the ever changing major manufacturer’s product and not a more grassroots firm, who’s product might be available and stable for many years?

A: If we were to program on instruments exclusively from a small, and minimally distributed, manufacturer in the U.S., then the possibility of finding the same product in say Greece or South Africa would be very difficult and frustrating for all parties involved, especially the presenter putting on the performance. So, we watch where the music technology market flows and of which products will best suit our needs – ultimately to help make this music accessible and performable anywhere in the world.

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Start a Dharma Dialogue

Please comment on your Dharma experiences… really…

Dharma at Big Sur Tech Specs

The Dharma at Big Sur

Musicians’ Equipment List

Electric Violinist:

• One Mesa Boogie Mark III or IV – guitar combination amplifier. Unit must have a record output (output to be used for FOH sound reinforcement and recording, where applicable). One, or two, 12” speaker drivers in cabinet only – combi amp should be small enough because it will live onstage, just upstage of the solo violin position.
• Several 15ft. 1/4” (jack) cables to connect Electric Violin output to combi amp
• Clean 110V AC sound power at downstage soloist position
• One AC power strip to power Mesa Boogie and Electric Violin processor unit, if used.

Two Sampler Musicians:

• There are two performance options: 1.) Kurzweil sampler or, 2.) Native Instruments Kontakt software sampler. See below for details.

Sound Reinforcement Requirements (with recommended manufacturers+models)

Digital Console:

• Midas
• Yamaha
• Digico
• minimum 24-input channel console with four-band sweepable EQ per input channel.

Mix position must be in house, not in a sound booth.

PA Loudspeakers (recommended models):

• four Meyer CQ-1P (two per side) used in stereo for Main PA
• four Meyer M1D, used in stereo, as Frontfills
• subs

Monitoring:

• one hotspot monitor (must have volume adjustment on unit) for conductor, mounted on mic stand
• one wedge monitor for solo violin position

FOH processing: If digital console is not used, then please supply outboard gEQ and time align delay units for each system driveline.

• One Lexicon PCM-91 / Lex 300 / 480XL w/ LARC, reverb unit
• One Lexicon PCM-81 (or similar) multi-effect processor

Microphones (nine mics and three D.I.):

• one 170, or sim., air mic for electric violin’s Mesa Boogie guitar amp
• four KM140 for strings
• two KM140 for two harps
• two C414 for piano
• two D.I. for two Kurzweil samplers
• one D.I. for electric violin
• boom-style stands for all above mics (and hotspot)

The strings, harp and piano reinforcement is not required, but highly recommended. The conductor will need to hear the samplers periodically – such as, sampler pulse at the beginning of the second movement.

Two Sampler Musicians:

There are two performance options: 1.) Kurzweil sampler or, 2.) Native Instruments Kontakt software sampler.

Version for Kurzweil sampler:

• 2 x Kurzweil K2500X (or K2600X/K2661X) 88-note keyboard version – each with minimum 8Mb sample RAM
• 2 x keyboard combination amplifiers (amp and speaker together) – each with 15 inch speaker driver, or larger. Roland KC-550 recommended.
• 2 x single-tier keyboard stands
• 1 x Iomega 100Mb (or 250Mb) external SCSI ZIP drive, with SCSI cable.
• 2 x audio volume pedals (Ernie Ball 6165 receommended)
• 2 x sustain pedals for Kurzweil samplers
• 4 x 15ft 1/4” jack cables to connect samplers to pedals, then onto combi amps
• Several AC power strips and AC extensions for samplers and combi amps

Version for Kontakt software sampler:

Please contact Boosey & Hawkes to obtain our custom software.

Kontakt MUST BE PURCHASED (approx $400 USD). Please visit http://www.native-instruments.com

Kontakt CANNOT be fully downloaded and purchased from the Native Instruments website, as most products now allow. It is NOT ready for immediate use. You must purchase the software, online or not, where the factory/distributor THEN ships you the software media (the sealed DVDs containing the serial numbers). The download version of Kontakt is the demo version which will only run for minutes, then quit. If you choose this method for performance please leave enough time to obtain the software via standard/express shipping methods.

Due to our custom Just Intonation tuning tables used for most patches in DHARMA, third party software samplers, such as MachFive2 or others which import standard Kontakt Instruments (*.nki), CANNOT be used.

Equipment List:

We highly recommend obtaining a “sampler technician” for your production. This person can help setup and troubleshoot the electronic instrument environment.

• Full running Mac/PC version of Kontakt
• High-performance Mac/PC computer with ample memory and hard disk space. Slower computer systems will increase the chance of unwanted latency.
• High-performance, multi-output, computer audio interface compatible with above computer system. Less quality interfaces will increase the chance of unwanted latency.
• High-performance, multi-port, MIDI interface compatible with above computer system. Less quality interfaces will increase the chance of unwanted latency.
• Two 88-note master keyboard controllers able to send program change and sustain pedal control on MIDI Channel 1.
• Two single-tier keyboard stands to hold each master controller.
• Two keyboard combination amplifiers – to amplify the Kontakt patches.
• Two audio volume pedals (not CC pedal) to connect audio interface output to the keyboard combination amp.
• Two sustain pedals to connect to the master controller.
• All cables (MIDI, audio, AC power) to connect and power the above equipment.

Note, all DHARMA patches (and sustain pedal control) in Kontakt are assigned as follows: SAMPLER 1 patches/sustain on MIDI Channel 1 ; SAMPLER 2 patches/sustain on MIDI Channel 2. Program your master controllers appropriately.

Also, default audio routing is as follows: Audio Interface Out 1+2 = SAMPLER 1 ; Audio Interface Out 3+4 = SAMPLER 2. This should be configured in Kontakt’s “Output” mixer section –> “SAMP1” Outs 1+2 ; “SAMP2” Outs 3+4 ; “DLY150” Outs 3+4 ; “DLY280” Outs 3+4.

General Sound Reinforcement Notes for Samplers:

Sampler players should not be amplified through main loudspeaker system. The sampler sound is to be amplified through the above recommended keyboard combination amplifier and should seem “acoustic” within the context of the orchestra.

Technical issues please contact Mark Grey, Sound Designer for John Adams: mhgrey@earthlink.net

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Son of Chamber Symphony Tech Specs

Son of Chamber Symphony – one keyboard musician – SAMPLER

Software downloads, technical specifications and technical contacts for Son of Chamber Symphony can be found at:

REALTIME MUSIC SOLUTIONS

General Sound Reinforcement Notes:

SAMPLER Musician’s patches should not be amplified through main house loudspeaker system. The sampler patches are to be amplified through a keyboard combination amplifier and should seem “acoustic” within the context of the orchestra.

 

Chamber Symphony Tech Specs

Chamber Symphony – one keyboard musician – SYNTHESIZER

Software downloads, technical specifications and technical contacts for Chamber Symphony can be found at:

REALTIME MUSIC SOLUTIONS

General Sound Reinforcement Notes:

SYNTHESIZER Musician’s patches should not be amplified through main house loudspeaker system. The sampler patches are to be amplified through a keyboard combination amplifier and should seem “acoustic” within the context of the orchestra.