Reference Guide

1937
Step Sequencer view
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Step Sequencer view
The Step Sequencer makes it easy to compose patterns using a grid, where each cell (step)
represents a note. You create patterns by clicking the cells in the grid to turn notes on or off, or by
using step recording.
Many step sequencers use a Piano Roll grid-style interface. SONAR already has a very powerful
Piano Roll view with similar MIDI editing functionality, so the purpose of the Step Sequencer is to
provide a very different method for working with patterns.
The Step Sequencer is ideally suited for drum programming.
See:
“Step sequencer interface” on page 1937
“Working with rows” on page 1950
“Working with steps” on page 1952
“Working with Controller events” on page 1959
“Working with patterns” on page 1961
“Working with Step Sequencer clips” on page 1965
“Keyboard shortcuts” on page 1947
“Using the Step Sequencer with drum maps” on page 1963
Step sequencer interface
The Step Sequencer interface consists of five sections:
• Menu. Use the menu to load, save and clear patterns and specify various editing options. For
details, see “Step Sequencer view menu” on page 1939.
• Toolbar. The toolbar contains transport controls and lets you specify the pattern length and
behavior when inputting new notes. For details, see “Toolbar” on page 1940.
• Rows. Each row represents a unique pitch, and has its own independent group of controls. You
can insert, delete and reorder rows. For details, see “Rows” on page 1942 and “Working with
rows” on page 1950.
• Notes pane. The Notes pane is where you turn notes on and off to create a pattern. For details,
see “Notes pane” on page 1945 and “Working with steps” on page 1952.
• Controllers pane. The Controllers pane is where you can create modulation events, such as
Controller, Pitch Wheel, Channel Aftertouch, RPN and NRPN. For details, see “Controllers pane”
on page 1946 and “Working with Controller events” on page 1959.