How to record your first track with Logic Pro – Tutorial

GarageBand has always been aimed at everyone, regardless of their musical ability. This school of thought translates to Logic Pro, with an increase in the number of Apple Loops and Software Instruments available to aid composition or recording. The good news is that Logic Pro offers the Musical Typing feature which many users have grown to love in GarageBand over the years. It not only appeals to non-musicians, but also those users who may not have the space or finance for external hardware such as a MIDI keyboard. The bonus of using Musical Typing to input your music is that you retain control over how the track sounds – editing options are plentiful! Sit back and let your fingers do the talking…

Step 1: Get started

Navigate to the File menu and select New. Click the Explore icon on the left-hand side and double-click Empty Project from the opposite side of the UI.

Step 2: Choose tracks

In the dialog box, choose the number of tracks you want to have available – this can be changed later on. Click Software Instrument under Type.

Step 3: Make some checks

Make sure Multi-timbral is left unchecked and ensure Open Library is checked – this will open the Instrument and Loops Library for us to work with.

Step 4: Software Instruments

Click Create and your project will open. On the right- hand side, you will see the Library. This is where we’ll browse the instruments and Loops on offer.

Step 5: Musical Typing

Press the Caps Lock key to turn it on. A Keyboard window will appear – this is the Musical Typing feature that you may have used in GarageBand.

Step 6: Audition

Browse the Instrument Library and choose one. Press any key to preview the sound. You’ll notice the track change to match the instrument.

Step 7: Make some noise

Once you’re happy with your choice, click Record and type in your melody. Don’t worry if it doesn’t sound great – we can change the instrument later.

Step 8: Change it up

Finished? Hit Spacebar to end the recording. Want to change the instrument? Easy. Click on the track in the main interface and navigate to the Library again.

Step 9: Save

The fun doesn’t have to stop! Click the plus icon above the tracks to keep creating. Don’t forget to save – choose File>Save to avoid any disasters!

(Click on the image below to zoom in and view the annotations)