In this post we’ll begin to get into the more creative things we can do with Ableton using, what’s called, automation. Simply put, automation is taking a particular action (or series of actions) and automating the process so we don’t have to do it manually. Need playback to stop at the end of each song? Done. Need to have certain tracks turn on or off during a certain section of your set? Sure thing. The ability to create these functions can be really helpful and the only limit is your imagination.

First Things, First

In order for any of this to work, you’ll need to have the IAC Driver up and running. (Check out this post for more on the IAC Driver)

You’ll need some knowledge of MIDI in order to continue so if you’re unfamiliar with MIDI, have a look online, there’s a ton of stuff out there. In this post, our focus will just be on MIDI notes.

All clear? Okay, let’s create some automation using a MIDI note.

Creating A Function with MIDI Notes

We’ll start by making a MIDI note perform a function. We’ll set it to toggle the metronome on and off. Whenever the MIDI note is “pressed”, the metronome will turn on or off, depending on its state.

Let’s choose an empty MIDI track and assign its output to the IAC Driver. Then, create a blank MIDI clip, select an area on the timeline then Cmd-Shift-M. Double click on it to open it up and double click on the piano roll to create a MIDI note. For this demonstration we’ll use C4, but feel free to use any that aren’t already in use.

Now, we’ll assign it to the metronome. Get into MIDI Mapping mode by pressing Cmd-M or clicking ‘MIDI’ near the top right. You’ll be able to tell it’s been activated because the assignable functions in Ableton will have a blue tint. It’s also a good idea to open up the browser on the left hand side which will show you all of your MIDI mappings in this mode.

Start playback on the timeline about a bar before the MIDI clip and click on the metronome before playback reaches the MIDI clip. As soon as playback reaches the MIDI clip, the note it plays (C4) will be assigned to the metronome. You’ll know it’s been assigned because your MIDI mappings list will be populated and you’ll see a 1/C4 appear by the metronome.

So now, whenever Ableton receives the note C4 it’ll toggle the metronome on or off. Done!

Closing Thoughts

The main idea is to add MIDI clips that control functions into your setlist so you don’t have to worry about remembering to change those functions between songs. It’s a really helpful tool when used correctly and there’s a lot we can do using MIDI notes but this is only the tip of the iceberg. We can assign multiple actions to a single button or create a sequence of actions with different MIDI notes in a single MIDI clip. We’ll be taking a look at some creative ideas using automation over the coming weeks. Check back next time for automation using CC values in Ableton.

Thanks for reading!