Keyboard & Synthesizer Equipment

Series Summary

Because of its creative uses of verbal and written communication, music is one of the most interesting forms of expression that exists in the world today. Whether the rhythmic arranging of tones and melodies developed in conjunction with spoken language is still unknown; nonetheless, music is unique in that it facilitates a special conversation between the musician and the audience that exceeds mere words. Music creates a connection between people that is not limited by time, distance, or relationship; a song can speak to anyone, anywhere. That’s why music continually changes and grows, is still loved and still proliferates. Music is a living language.

Now that you know the power of the music, in this free video series, learn how to play a synthesizer. Analog synthesizers are synthesizers that use analog circuits and computer techniques to produce an electronic sound that is often heard in music composition. The first analog synthesizers (or synths) were derived from analog computers and involved other electronic modules such as oscillators, filters, amplifiers and generators that were connected by patch cables. Later, all-in-one synthesizers simplified the set-up and made synthesizers more portable and easier to use. Analog synthesizers were slowly replaced by digital components, but in the 1990’s, a revival of the analog synths prevailed.

In this free video tutorial you'll get tips on how to use the various controls of a synth keyboard, including how to use attack, release, cut-off, pitch , modulation, sustain and more, as well as how to amplify your keyboard, and the best way to create a workspace for all of your gear so you can start composing and constructing electronic masterpieces.

Video Transcript

"Hi, I'm Ben Anderson with Expert Village. And I'm here today to talk to you about basic keyboards and what you will need in order to set up and play a keyboard. For starters, an important thing to consider is what type of keyboard you're going to need for your style. There are many different types of keyboards and synthesizers. You could buy a full-size keyboard as well as smaller models, depending upon what its purpose is going to be for. Some other equipment you're going to need to go along with this are quarter inch cables--one of these--to help amplify your sound. You also need a keyboard stand to help put your keyboard or synthesizer on, and, as well as, a sustained pedal, which is one of these, to help sustain your sound, along with an amplifier. An important thing to consider when purchasing a keyboard or any other keyboard equipment is what you really need. If you're a newcomer to playing a keyboard, you certainly don't need to spend a lot of money in order to get the--what you want out of your experience. Especially if you're playing live in a club, for a keyboard, it's oftentimes a keyboarder just doesn't even need an amplifier in order to play, aside from monitoring. So, when going into a store to decide what you want to buy, think about your budget--the type of money you have--and think about what you really need."