|
Log in to post
|
Print Thread |
|
|
|
|
|
User Showcase
|
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 1,987
Expert
|
OP
Expert
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 1,987 |
Hi to all my forum friends! Opus 65 It has been a while since I have been able to post anything here. I had a stroke in September, and lost all the vision in my left eye. My doctor said the loss of sight is permanent, but by the grace God I am slowly regaining vision - I'm doing well. But about 2 weeks after the stroke, my wife started getting very sick. After many doctors, and 4 hospital stays, she was diagnosed the end of November with Acute MDS, borderline Acute Myeloid Leukemia. We were told without treatment, she only had weeks to live. After 4 weeks of massive chemo treatment in MD Anderson in Houston, she went into remission. However, the only hope of a medical cure for her is a stem cell transplant. So we are waiting for an acceptable donor to be found (either through family or national donor registry), and then we will be off to Phoenix for about 6 months at the Mayo Clinic for the transplant. Rachel is in good hands, and we are very hopeful, and full of faith that by God's grace and power, she will walk in victory over this. So onto this song. I write a song for Rachel every anniversary, and a song for me on my birthday every year (just to remind the devil I am still here and not going anywhere!) This year, with all the medical crises, I wrote this one in my head - but was unable to put it into my computer until the last couple weeks. In my distant past, I have a classical background (violinist) so I decided to return to my roots for this one. I played the piano using Waves Grand Rhapsody. All the orchestra is a mixture of East/West and Native Instruments sounds. The guitar is a Band In A Box Realtrack sound, but I am in Houston at MD Anderson right now and don't have my BB HD to look up the sound. I will try to get it posted next week when we return home from this month's chemo session. We sincerely appreciate everyone's prayers. I hope to have some time to listen and comment on some of the great songs being posted here. I hope you all understand if it takes a while. Thanks so much! Steve
Steve Young Music"In order to compose, all you need to do is remember a tune that nobody else has thought of." - Robert Schumann
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
User Showcase
|
Joined: May 2018
Posts: 2,618
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: May 2018
Posts: 2,618 |
Beautiful! I am no good at recording techniques, but I would have perhaps put a tad more reverb or something on the brass instruments, so as to make them sound more distant and echoey? But that's just me, don't mind me!
The writing is absolutely beautiful and very moving! You have a fabulous command over orchestration techniques. The piano is like droplets of water falling down - I would have another look at the balance between it and the brass, though, just before the first "general pause". Otherwise - just beautiful, really and truly.
I am so sorry to hear about your wife and your current health tribulations. I will keep you in my prayers - with God by your side, I truly hope things will be easier for both of you. I'm glad you have been able to write music in the meantime - music is indeed a helper and a healer, I personally feel - I really hope you feel the same.
You say you have a classical violinist background? I would love to hear more. I used to play the violin, classically, myself ... Covid times kinda complicated things ... but would love to hear more about this if you want to share! Send me a Private Message, perhaps, if you don't want to talk in public about it? ONLY IF you have time - I realise that this may not be the time for that :-)
Anyway, congratulations - beautiful piece ... sending you my very best wishes for everything!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
User Showcase
|
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 8,249
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 8,249 |
First, it's great to hear from you - with whatever you're able to do! With so much on you're plate, I'm a bit astonished you get anything else done at all. And doing it to spite the devil? Amen!  Second, I'm glad to hear your wife is in remission, and prayers for your wife's victory walk! Nice title, by the way. Took me a moment to make the connection.  OK, on to the music. I really enjoyed this - it's ambitious, going for a big sound, but having a lot of intimate moments as well. Nice arrangement, with a simple but memorable theme. I say this with admiration, having destroyed many musical attempts by trying for something "complex" but ending up with a muddled mess. The intro is nice, but... I'll interrupt myself to say I sure shouldn't be telling you what your song should sound like. I'll go sit in the "corner of shame" for a moment... OK, back again, having learned nothing from my time-out.  The opening of songs is where I figure out where to set the volume knob, because everyone masters their songs to a different level. Perhaps having the brass initially come in at pp, and for the restatement a bit louder? Then again, it's brass, so I guess you should let brass be brass. There's really nothing the matter here, just a thought. The sound of the horns holding chords against the melody? Lovely. The strings on pizzicato? Also really nice. One of the few advantages of working in the digital world vs. live is being able to balance sections that aren't always well matched. The entrance at 0:36 of... woodwinds? A bit harsh to my ears, but then, I don't really like the sound of the combined woodwinds, so it's a biased value judgement at best. The piano sneaks in on the melody, and sounds a touch too bright to me. At 1:36 there's a bend on the string instrument. So I'm wondering "Is that a koto?" and like a dog seeing a squirrel my attention is pulled away from the theme to the background instruments. The strings come in at 1:38, and I'm immediately sad because they sound like a synth string patch instead of a group of strings. Unlike a real string section where the attacks are sort of staggered, this part feels like a keyboard is playing it. This is even more obvious when they get to state the theme by themselves a moment later. Perhaps mixing a first chair violin part in there could make it sound less MIDI-ish? When I say "sad", it's not because I'm complaining about any lack of skill - you demonstrate that throughout the song - but a reminder that you don't have access to an orchestra willing to play this for you.  The guitar and piano section is especially nice, with a close-mike kind of sound that contrasts with the larger section. The entrance of the horns at 3:10 is lovely, with the bells chiming on top. So nice. Harp flourish and held chord at the end - super! Anyway, feel free to ignore any criticisms. Loved it!
-- David Cuny My virtual singer development blogVocal control, you say. Never heard of it. Is that some kind of ProTools thing?BiaB 2025 | Windows 11 | Reaper | Way too many VSTis.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
User Showcase
|
Joined: Apr 2018
Posts: 2,060
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Apr 2018
Posts: 2,060 |
Steve,
Go good to see you back on the board. I’m sending my most hopeful wishes and prayers of good health and fortunes to you and your wife. That you can carve out time with all that’s going on to write such a beautiful melody and execute such a stunning production of it . . . a testament to your love of music and your admirable skill. Absolutely beautiful!
My very humble regards,
Deej
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
User Showcase
|
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 24,787
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 24,787 |
Steve, this is absolutely beautiful. I love the way it flows. Outstanding piano playing!
On a side note a friend of mine had the same problems as your wife. He had it for a long time with many bouts of chemo. He finally got the stem cell treatment and after some time he is now back to normal; it takes a while for the treatment to work. I will pray that your wife has the same outcome. And you stay healthy my friend.
Waitress "How did you find your steak sir"?
Me "I just looked next to the potatoes and there it was"!
64 bit Win 10 Pro, the latest BiaB/RB, Roland Octa-Capture audio interface, a ton of software/hardware
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
User Showcase
|
Joined: Apr 2019
Posts: 708
Journeyman
|
|
Journeyman
Joined: Apr 2019
Posts: 708 |
Just beautiful, Steve. So sorry to hear of your tribulations. Very best wished to you both.
Regards,
Leon
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
User Showcase
|
Joined: Aug 2012
Posts: 12,936
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Aug 2012
Posts: 12,936 |
Steve,
To my unsophisticated ear (and I readily admit to that), this sounds beautiful. Delicate, serene, intimate. Mix sounds good.
Wishing both you and Rachel the best.
fj
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
User Showcase
|
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 5,647
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 5,647 |
Steve,
Absolutely lovely work on the song, lots of talent there, and like floyd wishing both you and Rachel the best.
Peter
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
User Showcase
|
Joined: Oct 2000
Posts: 720
Journeyman
|
|
Journeyman
Joined: Oct 2000
Posts: 720 |
Your song is beautiful!
praying for you and your wife.
peace,
-rob
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
User Showcase
|
Joined: Dec 2012
Posts: 8,647
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Dec 2012
Posts: 8,647 |
Steve ...
You already know the history of my wife's significant health issues, so I can empathize with you. Fortunately, my health is relatively good for a 74 year-old. We're laying low through the pandemic, but get our vaccinations tomorrow afternoon.
I think your song is simply gorgeous. I know little to nothing about classical music but I do know this sounds beautiful in my ears.
Di and I will put you and Rachel in our prayers. We wish both of you nothing but the very best and many more years together. Take care, & God Bless.
Alan & Di
Last edited by Al-David; 02/09/21 07:37 PM.
BIAB 2024 Ultra Plus-all StylePaks*Win11*32GB DDR5*Rhyzen 9745x*AT 2035 Mic*Peavey Nashville 112 Amp*Ibanez ART120* Acoustic/Electric/Washburn D200S Acoustic*Stromberg Monterey Jazz Guitar Loops: https://aldavidmusic.wixsite.com/bestmusicloops
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
User Showcase
|
Joined: May 2011
Posts: 4,335
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: May 2011
Posts: 4,335 |
Steve, this sounds amazing. You are very talented and always have posted some of the best tracks on the forum. I will be thinking of both you and Rachel as you find your way through this challenging time. All the best,Tom
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
User Showcase
|
Joined: Aug 2018
Posts: 1,381
Expert
|
|
Expert
Joined: Aug 2018
Posts: 1,381 |
Really nice motif's, Steve and wonderful dynamics throughout. At once, it both familiarizes and makes comfortable for the listener, and still surprises. Wonderful piece to just soak in. Hang in there. Everything is good in the end. If it's not good yet, it's not the end.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
User Showcase
|
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 1,987
Expert
|
|
OP
Expert
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 1,987 |
We just finished round 3 of chemo.. Sitting here in Houston, listening to some fine music. We are in a holding pattern of chemo every month to maintain Rachel until we can get her to Mayo Clinic in Phoenix for the stem cell transplant. Very hopeful, looking forward to a bright future! Now, back to the forum comments...  Beautiful! I am no good at recording techniques, but I would have perhaps put a tad more reverb or something on the brass instruments, so as to make them sound more distant and echoey? But that's just me, don't mind me!
The writing is absolutely beautiful and very moving! You have a fabulous command over orchestration techniques. The piano is like droplets of water falling down - I would have another look at the balance between it and the brass, though, just before the first "general pause". Otherwise - just beautiful, really and truly.
I am so sorry to hear about your wife and your current health tribulations. I will keep you in my prayers - with God by your side, I truly hope things will be easier for both of you. I'm glad you have been able to write music in the meantime - music is indeed a helper and a healer, I personally feel - I really hope you feel the same.
You say you have a classical violinist background? I would love to hear more. I used to play the violin, classically, myself ... Covid times kinda complicated things ... but would love to hear more about this if you want to share! Send me a Private Message, perhaps, if you don't want to talk in public about it? ONLY IF you have time - I realise that this may not be the time for that :-)
Anyway, congratulations - beautiful piece ... sending you my very best wishes for everything! Thanks so much, musician17! Really appreciate your kind words and prayers. This one was somewhat thrown together. I spent very little time at all on the final mix/master, and I am sure to revisit this one once the storm passes and the dust settles. As to my violinist years - I had a full scholarship with a music major on violin - way back in the day. (I thought I was really good, but looking back, and knowing some of the people I have known over the years, I realize I was adequate to moderately good.) My dream was to be a Mr. Holland (before Mr. Holland's Opus.) But my mother passed away during my freshman year, and I had to drop out of school to help take care of her during her last days. Funny how things work. I ended up meeting and marrying the most beautiful girl I had ever seen. We ended up at Lakewood Church just a couple months after marrying. Within another few months, I was leading workship and became Minister of Music at what would become the largest church in the US. As a result, instead of leading a high school orchestra somewhere, I was privileged to work with many musicians from the Houston Symphony. Got to play with Little Richard, Barry Mcguire, Pat Boone, Wayne Cochran, among others. Such a whirlwind ride for this young college dropout. Certainly not due to my talent. I have to just say that God put me there. . These days I don't play the violin. I was diagnosed about 8 years ago with a neuromuscular condition called CMT. I am losing muscle tone in my hands and feet. I can no longer hold the bow. I can still play the piano, as my fingers can still perform up and down motions, but lateral movements with my thumbs are pretty much gone. (A thumb is a terrible thing to lose! ) Sorry for my looong post, but you asked for it! (I'm sure I over-estimated your interest in the subject!) First, it's great to hear from you - with whatever you're able to do! With so much on you're plate, I'm a bit astonished you get anything else done at all. And doing it to spite the devil? Amen! Second, I'm glad to hear your wife is in remission, and prayers for your wife's victory walk! Nice title, by the way. Took me a moment to make the connection. OK, on to the music. I really enjoyed this - it's ambitious, going for a big sound, but having a lot of intimate moments as well. Nice arrangement, with a simple but memorable theme. I say this with admiration, having destroyed many musical attempts by trying for something "complex" but ending up with a muddled mess. The intro is nice, but... I'll interrupt myself to say I sure shouldn't be telling you what your song should sound like. I'll go sit in the "corner of shame" for a moment... OK, back again, having learned nothing from my time-out. The opening of songs is where I figure out where to set the volume knob, because everyone masters their songs to a different level. Perhaps having the brass initially come in at pp, and for the restatement a bit louder? Then again, it's brass, so I guess you should let brass be brass. There's really nothing the matter here, just a thought. The sound of the horns holding chords against the melody? Lovely. The strings on pizzicato? Also really nice. One of the few advantages of working in the digital world vs. live is being able to balance sections that aren't always well matched. The entrance at 0:36 of... woodwinds? A bit harsh to my ears, but then, I don't really like the sound of the combined woodwinds, so it's a biased value judgement at best. The piano sneaks in on the melody, and sounds a touch too bright to me. At 1:36 there's a bend on the string instrument. So I'm wondering "Is that a koto?" and like a dog seeing a squirrel my attention is pulled away from the theme to the background instruments. The strings come in at 1:38, and I'm immediately sad because they sound like a synth string patch instead of a group of strings. Unlike a real string section where the attacks are sort of staggered, this part feels like a keyboard is playing it. This is even more obvious when they get to state the theme by themselves a moment later. Perhaps mixing a first chair violin part in there could make it sound less MIDI-ish? When I say "sad", it's not because I'm complaining about any lack of skill - you demonstrate that throughout the song - but a reminder that you don't have access to an orchestra willing to play this for you. The guitar and piano section is especially nice, with a close-mike kind of sound that contrasts with the larger section. The entrance of the horns at 3:10 is lovely, with the bells chiming on top. So nice. Harp flourish and held chord at the end - super! Anyway, feel free to ignore any criticisms. Loved it! Thanks so much David! You always give some very thought out and thorough comments. Much appreciated! I will let you out of your corner of shame. First of all, as I mentioned above, this one was really thrown together, and I plan on revisiting it hopefully soon. We have been back and forth between our home in Canyon Lake and Houston (MD Anderson for treatments.) I tend to have more time to myself while here in Houston, as Rachel spends more time in the hospital where I am not allowed to be with her due to Covid. (I insist on being with her for all doctor visits, so I can stay on top of what she needs. So far they have let me be there with the doctor, even though it is against their rules.) When we are at home in Canyon Lake, my time is much more taken with the most important thing, and I am honored to take care of my wonderful wife. Now, to your observations... I agree, the brass should start off softer, but just ran out of time with my editing, and decided to forge ahead with the levels as they are for now (not a deal killer.) The strings. This is the thing that I tend to spend the most time working with, being a violinist. Again, due to my schedule, they have not gotten as much attention as normally given. But the string sections on this one are more symphonic, as opposed to chamber, so they will have a more flowing sound, rather than hearing so much of the individual nuances of indifidual players. Still, I plan on spending a fair amount of time working on them. Unfortunately, my computer/interface and equipment is all in Canyon Lake so it may be awhile. Woodwinds. I agree, woodwinds by nature are more harsh sounding, especially in contrast to the mellow brass sound. That was more or less what I was going for. Contrast. But I agree with you, I'm not as big a fan of synthesized woodwinds sections, as the harshness tends to be magnified in the samples. I usually overcome this by bringup of the flutes slightly, to mellow them out. Again, part of my plan to fix when home, and have the opportunity. Piano. I will have to revisit the piano sound to see if it is too bright to me. It sounded okay to my rushed ears. Again, I do appreciate your critiques. They are very thoughtful. And I really appreciate your prayers! === Steve
Steve Young Music"In order to compose, all you need to do is remember a tune that nobody else has thought of." - Robert Schumann
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
User Showcase
|
Joined: Feb 2017
Posts: 3,414
PG Music Staff
|
|
PG Music Staff
Joined: Feb 2017
Posts: 3,414 |
Wow - you really hit close to the hear with this one. Stunningly beautiful and lush. You can tell it comes from the heart. Sending you all the best, also, during these tough times. 2020 was quite the year for many, in a lot of unexpected ways it'd seem. Thanks for sharing this with us
Cheers,
Deryk
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
User Showcase
|
Joined: Jan 2014
Posts: 2,630
Veteran
|
Veteran
Joined: Jan 2014
Posts: 2,630 |
I'm sure she will love this.
Yes, maybe the brass could be taken back a little but it's still good.
My best wishes to you both.
Vic
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
User Showcase
|
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 8,349
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 8,349 |
Steve so good to hear from you. Sorry to hear of the tough year you have had. And happy to hear things are getting better. One thing for sure music can sooth ones soul and this surely hits the mark. Just a beautiful song. Well done..
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
User Showcase
|
Joined: May 2018
Posts: 2,618
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: May 2018
Posts: 2,618 |
Steve, you certainly have NOT over-estimated my interest in the subject. Yours sounds like an amazing journey in the profession - working, as you did, with so many incredible, top level musicians must have given you an unique experience and perspective. Funny how God works, right?
I, myself, studied at one of the top music colleges here in the UK as a violin "major" (we don't have majors over here, but it's the equivalent). I was lucky enough to play under the baton of Bernard Haitink, Sir Colin Davis and others for a while - best time of my life. Then, as with you, life had other ideas ... I ended up doing all sorts of other things with my life, but music has remained a central part (once a musician, always a musician) - and now, I am always welcome to guest along with my former colleagues, most of whom have reached the top echelons of the musical profession. When I come along to play (even if I say so myself), there's a hush in the room, because they know that - even now - I can still give them a run for their money on my good days, haha (and also because they remember our respective levels "back in the day" and appreciate that, had we all been dealt fair cards in life, it could all have been very different for all of us). In reality, I'm really out of practice, nowadays, because I don't get to practice every day any more, but ... you can't keep a good musician down :-)
I'm sorry to hear about your neuromuscular condition diagnosis. A nightmare for any musician, not to be able to play one's instrument any more ... but it's amazing how we adapt. I always say: you can't keep a good musician down, no matter what. And your songs, alone, have given us so much enjoyment over here (speaking for myself, at least, I can honestly say yours are one of the most professional and musical writes I have ever had the pleasure of listening to on here!) ... I hope you will be able to create more, because, so long as you do, I'll be listening.
Thank you so much for sharing of your story. It was genuinely a joy to read about. Again, I will keep you and yours in my prayers. Thanks again.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
User Showcase
|
Joined: Aug 2020
Posts: 36
Enthusiast
|
|
Enthusiast
Joined: Aug 2020
Posts: 36 |
Mr. Young...
I think your composition is an eloquently performed musical journey through a world of quite finely articulated emotions. At one moment it is majestic, at another reflective, then hopeful, now bittersweet, calm for a moment, questing in another. Obviously, your classical roots remain expressive and strong.
I hope you and wife's health improves with the help of Our Creator.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
User Showcase
|
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 2,699
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 2,699 |
Hi Steve I always enjoy your productions, this is well done lovely peace of music glad your back I know I will never be disappointed prayers for for you and the wife thanks for sharing Eric
AMD (TM) 5950 4.9 GHz 16Core Processor 64 bit 32 bits of ram windows 10 pro 64 bit os. sound card Antelope ZenQ guitars Ibanez 2202a 1968 les Paul Custom and Cavin ae 185 Guitar boss Gt-100,GT1000 pedal Yamaha HS8 studio monitors
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
User Showcase
|
Joined: Mar 2012
Posts: 201
Apprentice
|
|
Apprentice
Joined: Mar 2012
Posts: 201 |
Great composition! Love the melody and piano. Wasn't expecting a good classical piece when I logged in here to check out some new songs. Hoping for a speedy recovery for you and a donor to your wife.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Ask sales and support questions about Band-in-a-Box using natural language.
ChatPG's knowledge base includes the full Band-in-a-Box User Manual and sales information from the website.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Band-in-a-Box® 2026 Mac Special Offers Extended Until May 31st!
Good news- we've extended our Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Mac® special offers until May 31, 2026!
Band-in-a-Box® 2026 is packed with major new features, enhancements, and an incredible lineup of new content! The program now sports a sleek, modern GUI redesign across the entire interface, including updated toolbars, refreshed windows, smoother workflows, a new dark mode option, and more. The brand-new side toolbar provides quicker access to key windows, while the new Multi-View feature lets you arrange multiple windows as layered panels without overlap, creating a flexible, clutter-free workspace. We have an amazing new “AI-Notes” feature. This transcribes polyphonic audio into MIDI so you can view it in notation or play it back as MIDI. You can transcribe an entire track (all pitched instruments and drums) or focus on individual parts like drums, bass, guitars/piano, or vocals. There's an amazing collection of new content too, including 202 RealTracks, new RealStyles, MIDI SuperTracks, Instrumental Studies, “Songs with Vocals” Artist Performance Sets, Playable RealTracks Set 5, two RealDrums Stems sets, and much more!
There are over 100 new features in Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Mac®.
When you order purchase Band-in-a-Box® 2026 before 11:59 PM PDT on May 31st, you'll also receive a Free Bonus PAK packed with exciting new add-ons.
Check out the Band-in-a-Box® for Mac packages page to find the best package for you.
Holiday Weekend Hours
It's Victoria Day Long Weekend in Canada. Our Customer Service hours are:
Saturday, May 16: Closed
Sunday, May 17: Closed
Monday, May 18: 8:00am - 4:00pm
Regular hours resume Tuesday, May 19th!
Today's the Last Day of the Band-in-a-Box 2026® for Mac Special!
Order before 11:59pm PDT today (May 15, 2026) to save up to 50% off your Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Mac® upgrade and receive a FREE Bonus PAK loaded with great new Add-ons to use with this new version!
Don't wait - order today!
Check out all the new features in the redesigned Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Mac®!
Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Mac - Special Offers End at 11:59pm PDT on Friday, May 15th, 2026!
Order before 11:59pm PDT on Friday, May 15th and SAVE up to 50% on most Band-in-a-Box® version 2026 for Mac Upgrade packages... and that's not all! With your version 2026 for Mac purchase, we'll include a Bonus PAK full of great new Add-ons FREE! Upgrade to the 2026 49-PAK to receive even more NEW Add-ons including 20 additional RealTracks... that's 222 NEW RealTracks available with version Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Mac!
Upgrade to Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Mac® today for as little as $49! Check out the Band-in-a-Box® packages page for all available purchase options.
Learn more about the Free Bonus PAK and 49-PAK here.
If you have any questions about which package is the best option for you, just let us know. We're here to help!
202 New RealTracks Released with Band-in-a-Box 2026!
With Band-in-a-Box® 2026, we've released 202 incredible new RealTracks (in sets 468-488) in a variety of genres—featuring your most requested styles!
Jazz, Funk & World (Sets 468-475):
Our new jazz, funk & blues RealTracks include a groovin’ collection of RealTracks and RealDrums! These include more requested “soul jazz” RealTracks featuring artists Neil Swainson (bass), Charles Treadway (organ), Brent Mason (guitar), and Wes Little (drums). There are new “smooth jazz” styles (4), which include a RealTracks first: muted trumpet, as well as slick new smooth jazz brushes options for drums. Blues lovers will be thrilled—there are more “classic acoustic blues” styles, including guitar (5), bass (4), and drums (10) with blues master Colin Linden, featuring understated and tasty background acoustic soloing, plus brushes drums and acoustic bass. There are also new electric blues RealTracks, including electric blues with PG favorite Johnny Hiland (3) and soulful electric slide guitar from Colin Linden (4). If you love funk & gospel, there are great new options this year, including gospel organ (3) from Charles Treadway, as well as new funk, tango, and rock ’n’ roll drums (3) and bass (1). And for big, bold arrangements, we have uptempo soul horns (4) featuring a three-part hip horn section with options for a full mix or stems of each individual horn — plus an accompanying rhythm section (4) of drums, bass, guitar, and electric piano!
Rock & Pop (Sets 476–482):
Our new rock & pop RealTracks bring a powerful mix of requested favorites, fresh genres, and modern chart-inspired styles! We have more of our popular “Producer Layered Acoustic Guitars (15)” featuring Band-in-a-Box favorite Brent Mason. We’ve continued our much-requested disco styles (10), and added new Celtic guitar (5) with a more basic, accessible approach than our previous Drop-D or DADGAD offerings. There are also highly requested yacht rock styles (17), inspired by the smooth, polished soft-rock sound of the late ’70s and early ’80s — laid-back grooves, silky electric pianos, warm textures, elegant harmonic movement, and pristine production aesthetics. Fans of heavier styles will love our new glam metal (13), capturing the flashy, high-energy sound of ’80s arena-ready guitar rock. We also have a set of rootsy modern-folk rock (18), with a warm, organic sound combining contemporary folk textures and driving acoustic strumming. And we’ve added lots of new modern pop styles (16) — the kinds of sounds you’re hearing on the radio today, featuring exciting new drums, synths, and cutting-edge RealTracks arrangements.
Country, & Americana (Sets 483–488):
Our new country & Americana RealTracks deliver a rich collection of acoustic, electric, and roots-inspired styles! We have new country pop (9) with legendary guitarist Brent Mason. There is also a potpourri (14) of bouzouki, guitars, banjo, and more, perfect for adding texture and character to contemporary acoustic arrangements. We’ve added funky country guitar (5) with PG favorite Brent Mason, along with classic pedal steel styles (5) featuring steel great Doug Jernigan. There are more country songwriter styles (8) that provide intimate, rootsy foundations for storytelling and modern Americana writing. Finally, we have “background soloing” acoustic guitar (12) with Brent Mason — simpler, but still very tasty acoustic lines designed to sit beautifully behind vocals or act as a subtle standalone solo part.
Check out all the 202 new RealTracks (in sets 468-488)!
And, if you are looking for more, the 2026 49-PAK (for $49) includes an impressive collection of 20 bonus RealTracks, featuring exciting and inspiring additions to add to your RealTracks library. You'll get new country-rhythm guitar styles from PG Music favorites Johnny Hiland and Brent Mason, along with modern-pop grooves that capture today’s radio-ready sound! There are also new indie-folk styles with guitar, bass, 6-string bass used as a high-chording instrument, acoustic guitar, and banjo. Plus, dedicated "cymbal fills" RealDrums provide an added layer that work very well with low-key folky styles with other percussion.
The 2026 49-PAK is loaded with other great new add-ons as well. Learn more about the 2026 49-PAK!
2026 Free Bonus PAK & 49-PAK for Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Mac®!
With your version 2026 for Mac Pro, MegaPAK, UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, Audiophile Edition or PlusPAK purchase, we'll include a Bonus PAK full of great new Add-ons for FREE! Or upgrade to the 2026 49-PAK for only $49 to receive even more NEW Add-ons including 20 additional RealTracks!
These PAKs are loaded with additional add-ons to supercharge your Band-in-a-Box®!
This Free Bonus PAK includes:
- The 2026 RealCombos Booster PAK:
-For Pro customers, this includes 27 new RealTracks and 23 new RealStyles.
-For MegaPAK customers, this includes 25 new RealTracks and 23 new RealStyles.
-For UltraPAK customers, this includes 12 new RealStyles.
- MIDI Styles Set 92: Look Ma! More MIDI 15: Latin Jazz
- MIDI SuperTracks Set 46: Piano & Organ
- Instrumental Studies Set 24: Groovin' Blues Soloing
- Artist Performance Set 19: Songs with Vocals 9
- Playable RealTracks Set 5
- RealDrums Stems Set 9: Cool Brushes
- SynthMaster Sounds Set 1 (with audio demos)
- iOS Android Band-in-a-Box® App
Looking for more great add-ons, then upgrade to the 2026 49-PAK for just $49 and you'll get:
- 20 Bonus Unreleased RealTracks and RealDrums with 20 RealStyle.
- FLAC Files (lossless audio files) for the 20 Bonus Unreleased RealTracks and RealDrums
- MIDI Styles Set 93: Look Ma! More MIDI 16: SynthMaster
- MIDI SuperTracks Set 47: More SynthMaster
- Instrumental Studies 25 - Soul Jazz Guitar Soloing
- Artist Performance Set 20: Songs with Vocals 10
- RealDrums Stems Set 10: Groovin' Sticks
- SynthMaster Sounds & Styles Set 2 (sounds & styles with audio demos)
Learn more about the Bonus PAK and 49-PAK for Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Mac®!
XPro & Xtra Styles PAK Sets On Sale Now - Until May 15, 2026!
All of our XPro Styles PAKs and Xtra Styles PAKs are on sale until May 15th, 2026!
It's the perfect time to expand your Band-in-a-Box® style library with XPro and Xtra Styles PAKs. These additional styles for Band-in-a-Box® offer a wide range of genres designed to fit seamlessly into your projects. Each style is professionally arranged and mixed, helping enhance your songs while saving you time.
What are XPro Styles and Xtra Styles PAKs?
XPro Styles PAKs are styles that work with any version (Pro, MegaPAK, UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, or Audiophile Edition) of Band-in-a-Box® 2025 (or higher). XPro Styles PAKS 1-10 includes 1,000 styles!
Xtra Styles PAKs are styles that work with the UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, or Audiophile Edition of Band-in-a-Box® 2025 (or higher). Xtra Styles PAKs 1-21 includes 3,700 styles (and 35 MIDI styles)!
The XPro & Xtra Styles PAKs are not included in any Band-in-a-Box® package.
The XPro Styles PAKs 1-10 are available for only $29 ea (reg. $49 ea), or get them all in the XPro Styles PAK Bundle for only $149 (reg. $299)! Listen to demos and order now! For Mac or for Windows.
The Xtra Styles PAKs 1-21 are available for only $29 ea (reg. $49 ea), or get them all in the Xtra Styles PAK Bundle for only $199 (reg. $349)! Listen to demos and order now! For Mac or for Windows.
Note: XPro Styles PAKs require Band-in-a-Box® 2025 or higher and are compatible with ANY package, including the Pro, MegaPAK, UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, and Audiophile Edition.
The Xtra Styles require the UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, or Audiophile Edition of Band-in-a-Box®. (Xtra Styles PAK 19 requires the 2025 or higher UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, or Audiophile Edition. They will not work with the Pro or MegaPAK version as they require the RealTracks included in the UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, or Audiophile Edition.
Supercharge your Band-in-a-Box today with XPro Styles PAKs and Xtra Styles PAK Sets!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Forums57
Topics86,318
Posts803,314
Members40,097
| |
Most Online64,515
Apr 8th, 2026
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Dansk
Deutsch - Windows
Español
Français - Windows
Italiano - Windows
Nederlands
Polski
Português
Svenskt
русский
Japanese
Simplified Chinese
Traditional Chinese
Korean