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Parametric Swing

October 1, 2025 10:05 AM

In this tutorial, we dive deep into one of Patterning 3's most exciting new features: Parametric Swing.

Learn how this powerful tool goes beyond traditional swing to create unique rhythmic grooves and experimental textures in your drum patterns. We start with a music theory primer on traditional swing notation and how it works in drum machines, then explore how Patterning 3's innovative "Parametric Swing" lets you apply swing across different time spans - from quarter notes to entire measures or even multiple bars.

Discover the three parameters that shape your swing:

Swing Bounds - The time span over which swing is applied

Amount - How far the midpoint shifts (from 0% to 100%)

Curve - How subdivisions cluster around timing points

Whether you're looking for subtle grooves or wildly experimental rhythms, parametric swing opens up a huge realm of rhythmic possibilities that you won't find in traditional drum machines.

 

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction to Parametric Swing
00:18 - Music theory: What is swing?
01:31 - Traditional swing notation explained
02:14 - Swing in drum machine terms (50% vs 66%)
02:46 - Introducing parametric swing concept
03:28 - Swing applied to different time spans
04:30 - Demonstrating in Patterning 3
05:51 - Swing settings interface overview
06:10 - Scope: Pattern vs Loop
06:26 - Main swing interface controls
07:00 - Traditional swing setup (quarter note)
07:27 - Drum machine swing (eighth note)
08:04 - Adjusting swing amount
08:31 - Bigger swing bounds (half note example)
09:15 - Understanding the curve parameter
09:46 - Negative curve clustering
10:14 - Positive curve clustering
10:52 - Multiple measure swing bounds
11:26 - Experimental 4-measure swing
12:08 - Combining swung and straight patterns
12:57 - Closing thoughts

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