Build Your First Expression Map in Dorico for Realistic Playback

Unlock expressive playback in Dorico with expression maps! This step-by-step class teaches you how to connect articulations in your orchestral scores to your virtual instruments – no scripting required. Gain control over your music's sound with Spitfire, SINE, VSL, HALion, and more.

---

What You Will Learn:

• Understand Expression Maps: Learn the fundamentals of what expression maps are and how they function within Dorico to enhance your orchestral scores.
• Custom Playing Techniques: Set up unique playing techniques directly within your Dorico score.
• Combine Techniques: Utilize base and add-on switches to create complex and nuanced performance articulations.
• Playback Technique Editor: Master Dorico's Playback Technique Editor for precise control over your virtual instrument's sound.
• Testing & Troubleshooting: Effectively test and troubleshoot your expression maps using Dorico's built-in Audition feature.
• Save & Reuse: Save, export, and reuse your custom expression maps across future Dorico projects.

---

Why Create Expression Maps?

Expression maps bridge the gap between your written musical articulations and the actual sounds produced by your virtual instruments. Without them, your mockups lack depth and realism, regardless of the quality of your sample libraries. This class provides a practical, repeatable process for building, verifying, and implementing expression maps with confidence. Learn from years of composing and playback troubleshooting to create maps you'll use in your own music.

---

Who Should Take This Class?

This class is designed for composers, orchestrators, and all music creators using Dorico who desire more expressive and professional playback from their sample libraries. No prior experience with expression maps is necessary, but familiarity with the basics of Dorico is recommended.

---

Materials/Resources:

• Dorico Pro
• A virtual instrument supporting articulation switching via keyswitches, CCs, or channels (e.g., Spitfire Audio, VSL, SINE Player, HALion)
• A score excerpt or mockup project for practical application.
• Downloadable Reference Checklist: A helpful guide to streamline the expression map creation process.