HYBRID ORCHESTRAL MOCKUPS: A PRODUCTION WALKTHROUGH
WHAT YOU'LL ACHIEVE
This walkthrough will help you:
- Create hybrid orchestral mockups with modern cinematic sound
- Select the right sounds and program them idiomatically
- Position orchestral and electronic elements in balanced 3D space
- Apply the 3-step mixing approach to every track (balance, depth, control)
- Combine acoustic and synthetic elements into cohesive hybrid textures
- Learn by recreating a professional mockup from Ludwig GΓΆransson's Oppenheimer score
HOW THIS WORKS
You get the complete project file with all notes already written. Your focus is learning production β how to transform MIDI data into a professional-sounding hybrid mockup.
Drop the MIDI file into your DAW, position the tracks in your template, and follow along track-by-track. Copy the same mixing decisions, plugin settings, and production techniques. By the end, you'll understand the why behind every choice.
WALKTHROUGH CONTENT
VIOLIN PROGRAMMING & LAYERING
You'll discover:
- Techniques for handling fast tempos that expose sample library limitations
- Balancing soloistic sound against section violins for realism
- Volume and panning automation to hide robotic-sounding elements
- Strategic use of chamber strings for definition and character
PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Learn when to layer different string libraries and how to balance them so the final result sounds natural despite tempo changes and sample limitations.
BEFORE: Sample libraries sound fake at fast tempos
AFTER: Layered approach that sounds convincing throughout tempo changes
LOW STRINGS & ORCHESTRAL MOTOR
This section covers:
- Creating the pulsing motor that drives modern hybrid scores
- Panning strategies for violas, cellos, and basses in hybrid context
- Using narrow panning to channel low-frequency power
- EQ techniques for transparency in the low-mid range
- Balancing orchestral pulse with electronic elements
PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Build the rhythmic foundation that makes modern hybrid scores feel urgent and propulsive.
BEFORE: Low strings buried and lacking impact
AFTER: Focused, powerful low strings that drive the music forward
PULSING SYNTHS & HYBRID TEXTURES
You'll learn:
- Selecting and programming synth pulses that mesh with orchestra
- Balancing multiple pulse layers without creating frequency masking
- Strategic EQ to create space between synthetic and acoustic elements
- Using compression for consistent pulse energy
- Volume automation to manage build-up and intensity
PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Create synth pulses that blend with orchestra instead of fighting for space.
BEFORE: Synths and orchestra sound separate and disconnected
AFTER: Cohesive hybrid sound where you can't tell where acoustic ends and synthetic begins
BRASS, WOODWINDS & SUPPORTING ELEMENTS
This module teaches:
- How to mix ensemble patches efficiently for background layers
- Positioning brass and woodwinds in the stereo field
- Knowing which elements deserve detailed attention versus quick setup
- Harp programming for both realistic and synthetic applications
- Percussion placement that supports without dominating
PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Work efficiently by focusing detail where it matters most while handling supporting elements quickly.
BEFORE: Spending equal time on all elements regardless of importance
AFTER: Professional workflow that prioritizes what the listener actually hears
HYBRID HORN & SYNTH MELODY
You'll discover:
- Layering techniques for horn sections (12 horns + marcato + solo trombone)
- Creating the hybrid horn-synth sound that defines modern action scores
- Using saturation, delay, and stereo imaging to enhance brass
- Programming pitch-bending synths that complement brass
- Balancing wide orchestral brass with focused electronic elements
PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Build the signature hybrid brass-synth sound heard in contemporary blockbuster scores.
BEFORE: Horns sound separate from synths, lacking cohesion
AFTER: Unified hybrid sound with power and aggression
SPATIAL MIXING: THE 3-STEP SYSTEM
Learn the methodical approach applied to every track:
- Step 1 - Balance: Volume and panning to position each sound
- Step 2 - Depth: Two-reverb system (convolution + algorithmic)
- Step 3 - Control: EQ, compression, and saturation for final polish
- How to create space by narrowing panning instead of just cutting EQ
- Managing room stacking when layering multiple sampled instruments
PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Apply this systematic approach to achieve transparent, professional mixes in finite sonic space.
BEFORE: Muddy, crowded mixes with frequency masking
AFTER: Clear, balanced mixes where every element has its place
MASTERING CHAIN & FINAL POLISH
This section covers:
- Stem-based mastering approach for film delivery
- Shadow Hills compression settings that work across stems
- Tape saturation for analog character
- Using Soothe to control harshness without losing brightness
- How to master in-the-box for fast turnaround on film projects
PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Master your mockups efficiently for client approval while maintaining flexibility for future changes.
BEFORE: Separate mixing and mastering slows down delivery
AFTER: Complete, polished mockups ready for client review in hours
TWO OPTIONS AVAILABLE
OPTION A - $15
- Complete Cubase project file
- MIDI files (all instruments separated)
- 40+ page companion guide with detailed settings
For composers who prefer to explore the mockup independently and reference the written guide.
OPTION B - $20 (RECOMMENDED)
Everything in Option A, plus:
- Complete walkthrough videos (~3 hours total)
- Sample libraries list (exact libraries used)
- Plugins list with specific presets and settings
For composers who want step-by-step guidance through every production decision.
WHAT'S INCLUDED IN THE WALKTHROUGHS
Track-by-track walkthroughs covering:
- β SOLO & SECTION VIOLINS - AI violin + sample library layering (42 min)
- β LOW STRINGS - Creating the orchestral motor (37 min)
- β PULSING SYNTHS - Building the hybrid pulse engine (35 min)
- β ENSEMBLE BRASS & WOODWINDS - Efficient background layering (16 min)
- β HARP - Realistic and synthetic applications (9 min)
- β PERCUSSION - Supportive timpani and bass drum (11 min)
- β TRUMPETS - Subtle reinforcement techniques (10 min)
- β HORNS & SYNTHS - The hybrid melodic statement (21 min)
- β MASTERING CHAIN - Stem-based final polish (11 min)
BONUS: TRAILER RECIPES BOOK
First 300 customers only - Over 120 pages
- Production techniques used in this mockup explained in depth
- Mixing approaches for dynamics, panning, and positioning
- Industry-standard workflows for modern cinematic sound
PRICING
Option A: $15 (Project files + Companion guide)
Option B: $20 (Complete package with walkthroughs)
LAUNCH PRICING ENDS THURSDAY 11:59 PM PT
After launch: Option A $20 | Option B $30
Download the files, open the session, and discover how hybrid orchestral mockups are built at the professional level.