Exercise - Controlling Clips - Example Follow Action

Ableton Clips Review Activity

In this video, I'm going to show an activity that reviews how we use clips in Ableton. This activity is designed to ensure that you fully grasp the concept.

Getting Started

I want you to get your hands dirty in this live set to make sure the core concepts are instilled in your muscle memory. Here's what you need to do:

1. Download the Ableton Live Set:
   • Once downloaded, install it, and open it up.
   • You can follow along with the different elements on the master track.

Reviewing Key Concepts

Feel free to review this video as you follow along. If you're unsure about concepts like legato mode or follow actions, make sure to revisit the relevant modules or videos.

Activity Outline

Great! Let's start by playing these two samples. There's an interesting rhythm happening here, but if I want to change it up for a more natural, ever-changing sound, that's where our follow actions come in. Here's how to explore creatively:

1. Set Follow Actions:

   • Select a clip and set the follow action to "2".
   • Choose "other". When I press play on these two beats, it jumps to another clip.

2. Apply to All Clips:

   • You can select all clips and set them to "2 other".
   • Now, when you press play, see how it bounces around, creating an ever-morphing, changing sound.

3. Add Randomness to the Snare:

   • Repeat the follow action setup for the snare.

Rhythm Generation

This setup is like a rhythm generator. If I hit the arrangement record button and tab over, I can play around with my recorded sections. You might find yourself liking certain sections or moving things around to edit from the randomness.

Introducing Melodies

You can also apply this technique to melodies. Here's a flute example:

1. Play the Flute:

   • It normally plays straight through.
   • Set the follow action to "2" and "other".

2. Use Legato Mode:

   • Turning on legato mode ensures the next note starts where the last one stopped, creating a more cohesive melody.

3. Record in Arrangement View:

   • Hit record and slide over to Arrangement View.

Extra Credit

For those looking for an extra challenge, start chopping up the clips in Arrangement View and try to come up with a finalized sketch from your exploration. You'll notice that new ideas come quickly, and this method fosters a generative feel in your creativity.

Conclusion

Make sure to download this Ableton Live pack and go through the activity to solidify your understanding of clips, follow actions, and more. Mastering these core concepts is a crucial part of using Ableton, preparing you for whatever creative endeavor you choose, whether it's learning more, building tracks, or any other project.

Now that you have clips under control, you're ready to explore!