I TOTALLY relate to what John C. (Bruno123) is saying here. Though I certainly appreciate the benefit of computer software tools in assisting us with our music, the continous hours, weeks, and months it takes to both learn & keep up with the continous software changes often feels overwhelming, and frequently eats into the precious time we get to actually enjoy playing our keyboards, as well as improving our chops.

It would be interesting to hear how other people here deal with this. How do you balance your actual keyboard playing/practice time with the 'other side' of the arranger playing coin: collecting/tweaking styles, sequencing, and other computer related music activities (learning how to use use new equipment, software, etc)?

- Scott

Not me Scott. I think at one time it really was that way for me, as I bounced around from program to program trying to learn as much as I could, but now that I have really embraced the softsynths, I think just the opposite is true for me, because that stuff is about working with and applying new sounds, and I play the heck out of them ( in real time with a midi kb controller of course ).

TYo put it another way, it does seem that in the past, I spent an inordinate amount of time working with various programs, and it did take away from playing for a time, but I wouldn't trade away the learning experience either. it was worth it in a lot of ways.


AJ

I find that I rarely get beyond the basics of most software, and lately hardware too. I don't like to learn all the intracacies of an instrument or program if I can get a good result with a flatter learning curve. In exchange, I am not an expert in any area, but I do feel I keep up on my playing to a certain extent, even if that means not knowing how to save a registration or something like that.

I couldn't agree more! In my case, it was a matter of catching up. Two years ago I didn't know the 1st thing about midi, let alone digital audio, recording, arranger keyboards, or any music software. It's been a learning curve struggle, but necessary.

Even tho I'm a far way from being an expert on music tech, I can be content with where I am. My resolution for the year is to spend less time on tech and more time on just being a musician and playing out.

I'm going for a very goal-oriented approach this year: I have specific recording projects that I want to complete. Technology will be a part of it as will be reorienting my studio to make it more efficient. I even plan on trying some new technology (Vocaloids as soon as it comes out), but only if it will help me complete my specific goals for this year. No new keyboards for 2004, though new softsynths will remain an option.

Scott, There is another thought here. I see three main areas;
1-Playing the keyboard.
2-learning to use the soft ware(midi files, storing, ect).
3-Learning every part of the keyboard that adds to your performance and enjoyment.

For me--IMHO---I have met with so many players that use 20% of the fantastic features in the keyboard. The keyboard was designed by a group of real professional people, they spend their days and weeks creating features that will help us perform. I try to explore and experiment with every part.

When I hear a song being played on TV, radio, or wherever, I get back to the keyboard and ask myself, "How can this keyboard create what I just listened to".

I work each section of the keyboard until I am comfortable. Then I am off to the next area. After years of searching, I am still finding new ways to use the keyboard. It is me that is growing, and I feel good about that.
The good part is that I take that knowledge and ability to the next generation of keyboard, the next model.

For those who have different needs and desires, that's just fine. How boring this world if we all followed the same drummer.

Thanks for leting me share, John C.

We're talking about a problem for me, not only with arrangers, but with video editing equipment, digital cameras, etc. I have to get "up and running" in a moderate amount of time. Luckily, I have a son who is a "techie"
I hand him the book, tell him what I need to do with the device, and learn enough to get the job done. That's not ideal, but the object for me is to creat music, films, images, etc. I have to prioritize, and am not looking forward to the learning curve I'll face with a new SD-1. Luckily, I'm told that my experience with my old MS-60 will help a lot.


Russ