As a music enthusiast, there’s a special kind of joy in bringing a classic song to life with a personalized touch. Recently, I embarked on such a journey with Gloria Gaynor’s timeless anthem, “I Will Survive,” on my Yamaha Tyros 4 organ setup. This blog is a peek into my process of rehearsing this iconic track, using a custom-made style within the Tyros 4.
Setting the Scene: The Yamaha Tyros 4
For those unfamiliar, the Yamaha Tyros 4 is a powerhouse of an arranger keyboard, packed with features that make it a versatile tool for both live performances and home studio sessions. Its expansive library of voices and styles, cou ooooopled with its intuitive interface, offers endless possibilities for creativity.
Creating the Custom Style
Before diving into rehearsals, I decided to craft a custom style that would do justice to the energetic and soulful spirit of “I Will Survive.” Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how I did it:
1. Selecting the Right Voices
The original track features a rich combination of instruments, including strings, brass, and a groovy bass line. I started by selecting the appropriate voices on the Tyros 4:
- Strings: I used the “Live! Strings” voice to replicate the lush string sections.
- Brass: The “Pop Brass” voice added the punchy, rhythmic brass sounds.
- Bass: For the bass line, I chose the “Finger Bass” voice to get that groovy feel.
2. Building the Rhythm Section
The rhythm is the heartbeat of this song. I programmed the drums to mimic the disco beat, focusing on the snare and hi-hat patterns that drive the track. Using the Tyros 4’s drum kits, I layered the kick, snare, and cymbals to create a dynamic and engaging rhythm.
3. Adding the Chord Progressions
“I Will Survive” is known for its catchy chord progressions. I programmed the chords into the Tyros 4’s style creator, ensuring smooth transitions and an authentic feel. The chord progression is relatively simple but effective, primarily revolving around Am, Dm, G, C, F, B, and E.
4. Fine-Tuning and Testing
After assembling the basic components, I spent time fine-tuning each element. This involved adjusting the volume levels, tweaking the EQ settings, and ensuring that all parts blended seamlessly. I also tested the style by playing along with it, making real-time adjustments as needed.
Conclusion: The Joy of Personalization
Whether you’re a professional musician or a passionate hobbyist, experimenting with custom styles on the Tyros 4 can transform your approach to music. It’s all about finding that perfect blend of creativity and technical skill, and most importantly, having fun along the way. Happy playing!