Composing with midi and sampled sounds has become an
art in the 21st century. While some purists are opposed to the idea
of using samples to represent an orchestra (or any acoustic setting), the
current musical climate doesn’t always allow for other options. The
opportunities to hear one’s music performed by a top level (or even moderately
good) orchestra are frequently reserved for a select few – those who win highly
competitive competitions as well as world-renowned composers and artists with
personal ties to an orchestral committee. That said, if a composer really loves
to write for the orchestra but doesn’t have the opportunity to do so, sample
libraries offer a realistic alternative.
In some ways, the
lack of outlets for orchestral readings has encouraged and inspired composers
to become adept at using midi. Personally, I’ve had great success using Quantum
Leap’s East West Symphonic orchestra (Gold) along with various string patches
from Omnisphere. However, the sources used are not as important as the ability
to manipulate and combine sounds to achieve the feeling of a live orchestra.
Sometimes it may be necessary to add a few live instruments to make the
recording more realistic…especially since most sample libraries have some
deficiencies with certain instruments in the way the sound speaks. Although you
may need extra funds to do this, it’s certainly more affordable than hiring an
orchestra :)