Pattern Types: Arpeggios And Sequences - Alesis MICRON Reference Manual

3
Patterns
Pattern Types: Arpeggios and
Sequences
A pattern can be set to one of two types: "arpeggio" or
"sequence".
Arpeggios and sequences both respond to a keypress by playing a
series of notes over a programmed rhythmic pattern. The
difference lies in which notes they play.
An arpeggio loops over whatever notes you are holding down on
the keyboard. If you hold down a chord, the Micron will generate
a melody by playing each note of your chord individually.
A sequence, on the other hand, already has a melody line built in.
So, all you have to do is hold down a single key, and the Micron
will play back that melody relative to that key. Pressing another
key will transpose the sequence.
A pattern can easily be switched from an arpeggio to a sequence,
and vice-versa. The underlying rhythmic pattern is kept the same -
- all that changes is whether the pattern plays the notes you hold
down or the notes it was recorded with.
If the distinction is unclear, choose your favorite pattern, toggle its
"type" parameter between "arpeggio" and "sequence" (see page
24), and try playing it both ways.
20
Phrases versus Patterns
In Programs and Setups
modes, the Phrase button
lets you quickly record and
repeat a riff or melody line.
Phrases are designed to be
used "live", when
inspiration strikes as you're
playing.
A phrase is nothing more
than a pattern that was
recorded using the Phrase
button. In fact, the most
recently recorded phrase is
stored as a pattern named
"* Phrase". If you happen
to record a phrase that you
really like and want to hang
on to, simply find the "*
Phrase" pattern and give it
a new name.