First 20 minutes of class

 

Chiptune Overview

This workshop will explore the world of classic video game music, focusing on its origins and how to recreate those sounds using modern tools like Ableton Live.

1. Introduction to Video Game Music

• • Tracing the origins of video game music back to the 70s with sound chips and Programmable Sound Generators (PSG)
  • Understanding the role of these early technologies in shaping the sound of video games

2. Trackers: A Different Approach to Sequencing

• • Exploring the rise of Trackers in the early 90s as a primary tool for video game music creation
  • Demonstrating workflows in Renoise and Schism Tracker, with a focus on integrating these tools into Ableton Live

3. Sound Chip Limitations and Authentic Recreation

• • Discussing the technical limitations of early sound chips and how they influenced creativity
  • Techniques for authentically recreating these vintage sounds within Ableton Live

4. Chiptune and Its Creative Potential

• • Exploring the Chiptune genre and how its minimalist approach can inspire unique sound design
  • Understanding the synthesis techniques required to produce authentic Chiptune sounds

5. From Chiptune to 8-Bit Beats

• • Bridging the gap between traditional Chiptune and modern subgenres like 8-bit beats
  • Creating tracks that blend Chiptune aesthetics with contemporary drum programming, inspired by artists like J Dilla

6. 8-Bit Arpeggios and Melodies

• • Crafting fast, intricate 8-bit arpeggios that define classic video game melodies
  • Tips for sequencing memorable video game-inspired melodies in Ableton Live

7. Video Game FX and Sound Design

• • Designing classic video game sound effects, from coin drops to power-ups
  • Utilizing Ableton Live's tools to create and manipulate iconic 8-bit FX

8. 8-Bit Synthesis Techniques

• • Delving into the unique synthesis methods used to generate 8-bit sounds
  • Techniques for shaping simple waveforms into complex, nostalgic tones

9. Introduction to Trackers in Modern Music Production

• • A introduction to using Trackers like Renoise in contemporary music production
  • Integrating Tracker-based techniques into your Ableton Live workflow

 

This workshop is ideal for both newcomers and experienced producers who are interested in the rich, nostalgic soundscapes of vintage video game music and its modern-day applications.

 

NES Chip Ableton Template

Included in this session is an Ableton template that mimics the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) sound chip limitation.

Template is using the free Magical 8bit and RP2A03.

 

NES Crusher

This audio effect rack emulate the specifications of the noise APU from the NES Chip and sounds great after a noise generator.

 

 

NES Coin Arp

A preset for Ableton's Arpeggiator. Load any lead synth after it to add a quick octave jump reminiscing of the old sound chips.

 

What's Included with this session

• 2 hours of Ableton Certified Training Video
• Chiptune Ableton Project from Class
• NES Ableton Template
• NES Crusher Audio Effect Rack
• NES Coin Arpeggiator Preset

 

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ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR

Yeuda Ben-Atar, a world renowned Ableton Certified Trainer, hails from Los Angeles, California. Originally from Israel, Yeuda’s passion for music led him to the United States, where he discovered his true calling with Ableton Live in 2007, embarking on a journey of mastery.

He approaches Ableton in a unique way; producing and performing with video game controllers under the moniker Side Brain.

One of Yeuda’s most remarkable qualities is his exceptional knowledge and speed, combined with his unparalleled ability to explain complex concepts in a simple and engaging manner.

With years of experience as a music production instructor and educator, Yeuda has contributed his expertise to prestigious institutions throughout the United States, including USC, UCLA, UCSD, Colburn Music School, Berkley School of Music, Cal Arts, NAMM, Skywalker Sounds, Bedrock LA, Sonos Studios, Sweetwater Headquarters, 1500 or Nothing studios, Grammy U, Pensado’s Place, Vintage King, Museum of Making Music, Lynda.com (now known as Linkedin Learning), and Perfect Circuit Audio, among many others.

His projects have included working with and teaching artists such as Timbaland, Ludacris, Lavel Kali(Beyonce, Drake) DJ Numark and Jurassic 5, Beck, Skrillex, Flying Lotus, Ed Sheeran, Rick Rubin, Giorgio Moroder, Simi, Bootie Brown (Pharcyde), Dave Pensado, Madison Mcferrin and countless others.