Ableton Push training

training using abletons latest controller

Thanks to rhythmix for providing a CPD day around using the latest controller from Ableton. 'Push' is an impressive piece of equipment fusing the flexibility of a software platform like Ableton with the tactile feel of an instrument. The training was a whirlwind tour touching on all the possiblities this can offer for musicians and people using this kind of technology in music engagement / education settings. I learnt some great new tips for using ableton and was particularly interested in how using the push controller or a microphone connected to the software can be used to aid peole with limited mobility to make musical expressions.

A microphone for example can be set up to receive audio for example someone humming a bass line. This can then be successfully converted to MIDI and turned into a musical part played by any instrument / transposed to any register. Another interesting idea was using the microphone as a controller. The mic can be set up to operate a 'gate' so the mic modulates parts of a loop. This could translate into someone adding a unique rhythmic quality to a loop just by tapping the capsule of the mic, again a wonderful tool for working with SEN students / participants.

Push itself is an amazing piece of hardware. I was particularly interested in the patches that can be developed to enable a few people to make music all playing the same Push controller, kind of like a jam using one hit samples. It's quite impressive how all the backlit rubber buttons respond and have really great dynamic sensors. At around £500 each though 'push' is quite a luxury item. I certainly would imagine it being a very useful part of the kit used to deliver music workshops for all abilities. As with the software though a decent investment of time to learn how to use it would be advisable as it can do so much!