Patchwork

Patchwork is a combined polyphonic MIDI step sequencer and arpeggiator with some unique features.

Sequencer:

• Playing back the sequence in reverse, bouncing back and forth, odd notes then evens, shuffle
• Repeating the note at the same octave, or one up or down, or randomising the playback octave (+1,0,-1)
• Playing over a sequence, one key transpose then return to playover, or stay in transpose
• Inversion of the sequence
• Recording a new sequence silently while the current one plays
• Apply one or two Euclidean, anti-Euclidean and non-Euclidean rhythms to the playback

Arpeggiator:

• An arpeggiator with various standard and novel patterns
• Variations of patterns
• Dual mode where a second note from the arpeggiator pattern is added (every step, ever 2nd, every 3rd or with 25% probability)
• Overplay mode where any held notes are played as held while the arpeggio continues
• Apply one or two Euclidean, anti-Euclidean and non-Euclidean rhythms to the playback

Combined:

• Split keyboard with the arpeggiator at the upper end and the sequencer the lower
• Two MIDI output ports so sequences and arpeggios can go to different devices or layers.

This version of Patchwork uses an Arduino Nano internally, but the new iteration (that is available for purchase) will use a Teensy and be significantly more powerful. The consequences are longer sequences, greater polyphony, and even a variation that will allow saving sequences and configuration to an SD card.

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Demo

The following video gives an overview of the basic operation.

• 1:12 Dual sequencer/arpeggiator
• 1:53 Sequencer pattern variations (like the D-Thing)
• 2:25 Echo/octave variations
• 3:50 Polyphonic sequence
• 4:38 Rests and ties

The demo is a bit rough since I was using a faulty Super Gemini. I had to quickly record and then send it back to the shop. I’ve only just got it back. :-(