Native Instruments – BARRY HARTGLASS

A few years ago, I started exploring the endless possibilities of Reaktor and I evaluated all of the many included ensembles in the Reaktor Factory Library: Effects, Grooveboxes, Samplers, Sequenced Synthesizers, Sound Generators and Synthesizers. When I first played around with Akkord, one of the Reaktor Sequenced Synthesizers, I imagined composing a piece for my talented daughter Maya to play one day called, “Akkording To Maya,” for Akkord and Viola. For Maya’s 16th birthday (6/13/21), I finally got around to doing it. Since Akkord has a unique sequencer that plays chords, I sent Maya a list of almost every possible chord in every key and asked her to choose 16 of them, no matter which ones. I assembled a musical form using the chords that Maya chose in the order that she…

Story by Wesley Orser, one of Barry's former Hofstra students who sat in on a mix session for Rich Coffey. In the midst of widespread lockdowns caused by the coronavirus pandemic, many residents left isolated in their homes have been reminded why long walks and fresh air are so important to one’s mental health. It was a complete coincidence that I was asked by Barry to write about one of his recording clients, Rich Coffey, and his ongoing “Nature Suite” project right as these nationwide lockdowns started to take effect. Still, unexpected circumstances nevertheless informed the importance of what Coffey is trying to communicate through his music. Coffey’s “Nature Suite” invites listeners to develop a further appreciation of nature by evoking its tranquil effect and beauty through music. Featuring a…

Tag: Native Instruments

Akkording To Maya

Rich Coffey’s “Nature Suite” – Getting Back in Touch with the Natural World