Question about feedback

[davidr]

In a recent feedback for a submission to TAXI # S250511DN (Lots of DRAMATIC NEO-CLASSICAL INSTRUMENTALS and/or INSTRUMENTAL CUES), I received some feedback that I am not sure I understand.

The reviewer wrote that "The strings sound stiff". What does that mean? Does it mean that they lack expression -- or something else?

Thanks in advance!!!
--David

[macomposer]

Hi Dave,

Yes! The old "strings sound stiff" comment generally means that the midi programming has some issue(s). Typical culprits include the midi being too quantized to the grid, the velocities being a bit too consistent, or both of those. A third culprit could be the cc data (1 and 11) as the non-use or mis-use of these will definitely lead to a lack of expression.

Cheers,
Mark

[RealPickle]

Hi David,

Mark is spot on that it's probably one (or more) of the issues he mentioned. If you wish to post the track here (also with the screener feedback), you'd probably get more specific and helpful comments and feedback. Just an idea!

[telefunkin]

I agree with the responses you've had. When midi data plays synth sounds we have no reference for what the sound should be like, because its synthetic with no consistent real-world equivalent. When midi data plays orchestral instruments or any other real instrument we have a good idea of what it should sound like, and when it doesn't we're immediately triggered that something isn't quite right. The more familiar we are with the real instrument, the more sensitive we are to any failings, and 'stiff' is one description I've heard (and been criticised for). There have been many previous replies on how to make strings and other orchestral instruments sound more real, but much of it comes down to using great samples with midi cc control to vary volume and intensity, and perhaps using legato to connect notes in more natural ways. In other words, mimicking how real players would play the parts.

In your neo-classical piece I would imagine ostinato string parts that pulse along through chord changes, but real players would have minor timing imperfections as well as volume and tonal variations, and also some sense of cadence to suit the arrangement. Such things would have been evident in the ref tracks for the listing, and maybe its worth having another listen to see whether you can pick them out. If you then listen to your track and check how it sounds in comparison it might tell you where the 'stiffness' is.