Ghost notes are musical notes occurring in a rhythmic figure which are purposely deemphasized, often nearly to the point of silence. You will often find that ghost notes are used in almost all styles but predominantly in any style that uses acoustic instruments. However, it is also a well tried and successful technique for adding life and body to a drum pattern. The fact that the ghost note is almost silent means that the listener ‘feels’ it as opposed to hearing it.

Bearing in mind that music is all about perception, this technique is perfect for what we are aiming for. In terms of percussive programming it can make all the difference.

You create ghost notes by either drawing in notes in the key editor, or by playing them in while auditioning back the recorded data. You then need to change the gains of the ghost notes to almost silence. Positioning is crucial here as the ghost notes need to be placed correctly for them to have any effect. However, as with all my advice, try to experiment until you find the right combination of both position and velocity.

Ghost notes work wonders for hi hat patterns or for drum element sounds that need more life. Snares benefit greatly from Ghosting as they give the effect of a very slight slap back. Hi hats will invariably sound fuller and more lively with sensibly gained ghost notes.

Placement of ghost notes is as important as the gain structuring.

Excerpt taken from The Beat Production Bible.

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