Backing Tracks & Sound

A backing track is a recording that plays with the score. The built-in instrument can play the notes on the page too.

• Several tracks

Several tracks

A score can have more than one backing track, for example a rhythm section and a separate guide vocal. Add the first with Add Backing Track, then use Add Another Backing Track in the Inspector or the sound menu. They all play together, in time with the score.

Under Backing Tracks & Sound each track has its own switch, to turn it off without removing it, and its own level from -24 to +12 decibels. The first track is the one the score keeps time with, and Match Key & Tempo and the track editor work on it. The other tracks follow its speed and key, but not its edit lanes, and should be recordings that start together with it.

Reduce Vocals, on any track, cuts the singer down in a stereo recording by cancelling what is in the middle. It leaves a mono track, can take some middle instruments with it, and can't remove a voice from a mono recording.

More on this topic

• Add a backing trackAdd the first backing track with Add Backing Track, and it plays in time with the score.
• Add more than one backing trackA score can have several tracks, for example a rhythm section and a separate guide vocal.
• Track switches and levelsEach track has its own switch and its own level from minus 24 to plus 12 decibels.
• The first track keeps timeThe first backing track is the one the score keeps time with; later tracks follow its speed and key.
• Match Key and Tempo to a trackMatch Key & Tempo works on the first backing track; use it again if the track starts late or early.
• Reduce vocals on a trackReduce Vocals cuts the singer down in a stereo recording; it cannot remove a voice from a mono recording.
• Play along with Apple MusicPlay a song from your Apple Music subscription alongside a score and see its lyrics.
• The built-in instrumentThe built-in instrument can play the notes on the page, as can a metronome.
• Equaliser and key changesKey changes and the equaliser are part of the Performer and Professional plans.