Dorico Tutorials

Play Mode in Dorico: A Category Overview

Introduction

Play Mode in Dorico is designed for detailed playback control, providing a DAW-like interface that allows users to refine performance nuances beyond traditional notation playback. Unlike Finale’s MIDI Tool, which is outdated and cumbersome, Dorico offers a modern sequencer-style workflow, complete with a Track Editor, Key Editor, Automation Lanes, and a Tempo Map.

Finale users accustomed to manually adjusting MIDI velocities and timings will find Play Mode to be far more flexible and intuitive, bridging the gap between notation and digital audio workstations (DAWs).

1. What Can Be Controlled in Play Mode?

Play Mode allows precise control over playback, including:

• Tracks Panel – A DAW-style track view showing each instrument’s playback data.
• Key Editor – A piano roll-style MIDI editor for modifying note lengths, velocities, and articulations.
• Automation Lanes – Dynamic curves for expression, modulation, MIDI CC data, and playback techniques.
• Tempo Map Editor – Fine control over tempo changes and ritardandos.
• Playback Techniques Editor – Adjusting how Dorico triggers playing techniques in VSTs.
• Endpoint Configuration – Assigning and managing VST instruments and sound libraries.

2. Key Features of Play Mode

Track and Key Editor

• The Tracks Panel provides a clear overview of all instruments.
• The Key Editor functions like a DAW’s piano roll, allowing note adjustments beyond notation values.
• Notes can be dragged, lengthened, shortened, and re-timed independently of the written notation.
• Velocity, pitch bend, and MIDI CC data can be tweaked per note for expressive playback.

Automation Lanes

• Dorico’s Automation Lanes allow for nuanced control of:
  • Dynamic curves (crescendo/decrescendo playback)
  • MIDI CC data (e.g., modulation, breath control, sustain pedal)
  • Expression Maps (switching between articulations, pizzicato, legato, etc.)
  • Custom playback techniques

Tempo Map Editor

• Dorico offers a graphical tempo editor, allowing for:
  • Precise tempo changes
  • Gradual accelerandos and ritardandos
  • Fine control over rubato playback
• Unlike Finale, which relies on text expressions for tempo changes, Dorico provides a visual tempo curve for seamless transitions.

VST Instrument and Endpoint Configuration

• Dorico supports VST3 instruments, allowing integration with professional sample libraries.
• The Endpoint Setup allows users to:
  • Assign instruments to HALion, NotePerformer, Kontakt, or other VST plugins.
  • Customize Expression Maps for third-party libraries.
  • Control reverb, EQ, and effects processing within Dorico’s Mixer.

Expression Maps and Playback Techniques

• Dorico’s Expression Maps determine how articulations and playing techniques are translated into MIDI.
• Users can create custom Expression Maps for sample libraries, similar to DAW articulation switching.
• Unlike Finale’s Human Playback, which is rigid, Dorico offers fine-grained control over playback nuances.

3. Best Practices for Using Play Mode

• Write First, Adjust Playback Second – Enter notation fully before refining playback.
• Use the Key Editor for detailed MIDI tweaks.
• Leverage Automation Lanes to fine-tune dynamics and CC data.
• Use the Tempo Map for realistic tempo changes instead of manual MIDI adjustments.
• Customize Expression Maps for optimal playback with third-party libraries.

4. How Play Mode Differs from Finale’s MIDI Tool

5. Conclusion

Dorico’s Play Mode provides a modern, DAW-like playback system, vastly more advanced than Finale’s MIDI Tool. With track-based editing, automation lanes, a key editor, and a tempo map, Dorico enables composers and orchestrators to create expressive, nuanced performances without needing to export MIDI to a DAW.

For users working with orchestral mockups and **virtual instruments, **Play Mode ensures professional-grade control while keeping everything within a notation environment.

Related Resources

• Dorico Manual: Play Mode
• Dorico YouTube Tutorials
• Dorico Forum Discussions