Reference Guide

View Reference

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

Working with rows

Working with steps

Working with Controller events

Working with patterns

Working with Step Sequencer clips

Keyboard shortcuts

Using the Step sequencer with drum maps

Step sequencer interface

The Step Sequencer interface consists of four sections:

• Toolbar. The toolbar contains transport controls and lets you specify the pattern length and

behavior when inputting new notes. For details, see Toolbar.

• 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 and Working with rows.

• Notes pane. The Notes pane is where you turn notes on and off to create a pattern. For details,

see Notes pane and Working with steps.

• 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

and Working with Controller events.