How Did ABBA Create THIS on "Gimme Gimme Gimme"

video upload by Anthony Marinelli Music

"Get ready to unlock the secret behind ABBA’s iconic "Gimme Gimme Gimme" synth melody. I’m diving into the legendary sound that doubles the strings, showing you exactly how to recreate it on an ARP Odyssey guiding you step-by-step in plain language. You can use these techniques to re-create the sound on any instrument that you have. Whether you're new to synthesizers or an experienced producer, my easy-to-follow approach will help you understand the basics of creating sounds and how to apply them to your own music. I’ll also share tips on how to decide which sounds work best in an arrangement, so you can make informed choices when crafting your own compositions. Stick around, and let's bring that classic disco vibe to life on your synth!"

Lets Make the Bass from “Hot To GO!" by Chappell Roan

video upload by Anthony Marinelli Music

"In this video, I take on the challenge of recreating the bass sound from Chappell Roan’s “Hot to Go” using four legendary vintage synthesizers: Sequential Circuits Prophet-5, Roland Jupiter-8, ARP 2600 & Minimoog.

The secret sauce? Pulse width modulation (PWM)—it’s the key to nailing that rich, dynamic bass tone. I’ll walk you through how I dial in the sound on each synth and perform the bassline, so you can hear the differences and pick your favorite. You'll see that sometimes a simple sound requires some very subtle knob turns especially with the envelope, generators, filter, modulation, and resonance

But here’s the real takeaway—it’s not about which synth was used on the record, but about understanding how to craft the sound on any synth you have. Once you know the building blocks, you can shape it your way. Plus, the way you play the notes is just as important as the sound itself!

So, which synth gets the vibe just right? Watch and decide for yourself!"

Cosmic Synth Slide | “Everybody Loves the Sunshine” by Roy Ayers

video upload by Anthony Marinelli Music

"Dive deep into the art of synthesis with Anthony Marinelli as he unpacks the sliding melody synth sound from Roy Ayers’ classic “Everybody Loves the Sunshine.” In this video, Anthony meticulously breaks down this unforgettable sound, revealing unique oscillator tunings and the subtle performance techniques—like dynamic portamento speed changes—that bring this nuanced melody to life.

He also explores how thoughtful arrangement allows synthesizer tones to create space and counterpoint, perfectly complementing the song’s rhythm section. Whether you’re a synth enthusiast or a music producer looking to enhance your sonic palette, this breakdown offers rare insights into the creative process behind one of the most captivating synth sounds in modern music. Subscribe for more videos about the techniques and artistry of synthesis!

For an even deeper exploration into synthesis check out Anthony's course "Think Like a Synth." Visit anthonymarinellimusic.com to learn his proven method and start creating legendary sounds for your music!"

The SCREAMING Filter: How Herman Gillis Created the Sherman Filterbank

video upload by Anthony Marinelli Music

"Meet Herman Gillis, the inventor of the Sherman Filterbank, one of the most aggressive and unique filters in electronic music history! In this exclusive interview, Herman reveals how he employed Switched-Capacitor Filter (SCF) technology to create an analog powerhouse that shaped the sound of artists like The Orb, David Bowie, Human League, Ziggy Marley, and more...

What makes the Sherman Filterbank so special? Herman takes us through the evolution of his designs, from his teenage years building guitar pedals and drum machines to his legendary Filterbank 1, Quad Modular Filter, Filterbank Compact, and the latest 500 series module, the Rodec/Sherman Minirestyler.

I’ll be performing on a Minimoog and laying down grooves with a TR-909 drum machine throughout the video—bringing Herman’s filter madness to life with some face-melting musical examples! You won’t just hear us talk about this screaming filter—you’ll experience it in all its glorious, growling, and gut-punching sound!

If you’re into synths, sound design, and legendary instruments, this deep dive into one of the most extreme filters ever built is a must-watch!"

Alan R. Pearlman Foundation Panel Discussion and Booth Events Coming to NAMM 2025

via The Alan R Pearlman Foundation

ALAN R. PEARLMAN FOUNDATION TEC TRACKS PANEL DISCUSSION AND BOOTH EVENTS AT THE 2025 WINTER NAMM SHOW

The Foundation promises an exciting event schedule in advance of Alan R. Pearlman’s centennial.

KINGSTON, NY, JANUARY 17, 2025– The Alan R. Pearlman Foundation has announced a series of exciting events during the 2025 Winter NAMM show, featuring a TEC Tracks session in conjunction with Korg, USA, featuring a distinguished panel of filmmakers, sound designers and composers discussing ARP's profound influence on movies, games and television. The session; Behind the Screen: ARP Synthesizers Impact on Sound Design in Film, TV, Gaming and More will take place on Thursday, January 23rd from 4PM to 5PM in Ballroom B at the Hilton Anaheim. Moderated by DJ Cherish the Luv, panelists include: Anthony Marinelli, Mark Isham, and Michael Stein.

In addition, the Foundation will be exhibiting at booth #10700, where we will have vintage instruments to play, host famed synthesist and composer Anthony Marinelli as well as other luminaries, and have short demos including a primer on integrating vintage (and modern) ARP synths into Eurorack modular systems.

ARP synthesizers have been woven into our storytelling tapestry for over half a century,” said Dina Pearlman-Ifil, ARP Foundation founder and daughter of Alan R. Pearlman. "We’re excited to inspire at NAMM with insights into my father’s genius from some very influential artists, and to go ‘behind the screens’ with the influential creators who put the endless potential of ARP synths into their work.”

The Foundation continues its work with contributors, collaborators, vendors, manufacturers, venues, and owners of rare original ARP synthesizers. Among their goals is the creation of installations where students can utilize ARP synthesizers as part of their music curriculum, and to explore the endless possibilities of electronic music.

For more information about the Alan R Pearlman Foundation, please visit alanrpearlmanfoundation.org.

And a message on the Los Angeles Wildfires:

"RESPONSE TO THE LOS ANGELES FIRES
The Alan R Pearlman Foundation acknowledges the horrors of the Los Angeles fires and would like to share a few words about this, and about our presence at the NAMM show.

We have been keeping close watch and staying in touch with our numerous friends, colleagues and family in Los Angeles. While it appears that Anaheim, the home of the NAMM Show, is safe from imminent danger, the impact that this tragedy inevitably has had, and will have, on our community of musicians, producers, film and recording professionals and friends cannot be downplayed.

Because Anaheim has been deemed as safe, we will be displaying at the NAMM Show in booth 10700. We hope to see many of you there and to learn more of how you’ve weathered these unprecedented circumstances, whether directly or through contact with those you know who have been impacted.

We salute the NAMM organization for their pledge of $50,000 to donate to the 2025 LA Wildfires Relieve Fund, and their encouragement of more contributions. (Read NAMM's President & CEO John Mlynczak statement.) We encourage everyone that is either going to NAMM or watching from afar to join us in supporting our music family who are being affected by these horrific events.

For those of our music family who are in need of gear from losses from the fires, please reach out to us and we will try to connect you with members of the industry who are helping musicians replenish their studios."

Alan R Pearlman Foundation: The Year in Review 2024

video upload by Alan R. Pearlman Foundation

https://alanrpearlmanfoundation.org/

"What a fantastic year! From our ARP 2500 wing cabinet coming to Boston, to Stevie Wonder, Pete Townshend, Patrick Moraz, Jon Batiste, Greg Phillinganes and Anthony Marinelli playing and displaying ARPs for the world to see. We have summarized all of it in this video... music by the immensely talented Chicago musician Rick Reger, used with his permission.

Thank you to all of our supporters, partners, volunteers, sponsors, friends and donors. We are literally nothing without you and. your ARP Love. A Very Happy New Year!

About Rick Reger:
arpchive interview: • ARPCHIVES Live! Episode 24 with Rick ... [posted here]
websites : https://modular-station.com/modulisme... and https://regermusic.com/
instagram: / rick.reger.75
bandcamp: https://modulisme.bandcamp.com/album/..."

Does Michael Jackson's Thriller Really Have 7 Basslines? Greg Phillinganes Explains

video upload by Anthony Marinelli Music

"Join keyboard legend Greg Phillinganes and me in this special video, as we dive deep into the 7 distinctive bass parts on Michael Jackson’s "Thriller"! Together, we'll deconstruct all the unique bass lines, showcase Greg's incredible artistry and share behind-the-scenes insights into the song's groundbreaking arrangement by Rod Temperton....with some silly sidebars by Greg along the way.

In this video, you’ll discover:

Greg’s approach to adding fills and interpreting songs when perfroming.
Lessons learned from working with Stevie Wonder.
The creative process behind Rod's arrangement
How to play these parts on classic synths

From the growling 'Verse Sustain Bass' to the gothic 'Pipe Organ Bass Pedal' and the funky 'Froggy Bass,' every detail is explored in this masterclass in keyboard performance and arrangement. Plus, experience the full song to hear how it all comes together at the end.

We made this video together with love to pass along our knowledge to you. We hope you enjoy it!"

CLICK FOR MORE »

How They Made Michael Jackson's Thriller w/Greg Phillinganes

video upload by Anthony Marinelli Music

THINK LIKE A SYNTH * ✅
✏️ Learn the exact method I've used
for decades on hit records & films ✅
Go to ⬇️⬇️⬇️
https://anthonymarinellimusic.com/col...

"ABOUT THIS VIDEO

Step into music history with this one-of-a-kind educational deep dive into the making of Michael Jackson's iconic hit, "Thriller". Join me with legendary keyboardist Greg Phillinganes, guitarist Tariqh Akoni and a special horn section as we meticulously re-create the instrumental track and relive the experience of being in the room at the inception of this groundbreaking song.

The creation of "Thriller" was a masterclass in collaboration, uniting Michael Jackson's unparalleled vocal artistry, Rod Temperton's masterful songwriting and arranging, Quincy Jones' visionary production and casting of world class musicians and Bruce Swedien's groundbreaking engineering. Each played a vital role in pushing the boundaries of pop music as they transformed many big ideas into a cohesive work of art.

Designed for musicians, producers, and music history enthusiasts, this video immerses you in the experience of being in the room, watching the parts come to life, as the iconic record was created. It's a track-by-track exploration of the music, highlighting the incredible attention to detail required to honor the original session that brought together the unparalleled talents of Michael, Quincy, Rod and Bruce.

Using many of the same instruments and equipment that appeared on the original recording, we reconstruct the song’s intricate layers, recording and mix to our best precision and authenticity. We hope this journey allows you to feel the love, joy, and creative spirit that filled the room during the making of this timeless masterpiece.

"Thriller" Relived Production
Produced by Anthony Marinelli
Produced, Directed & Edited by Dante Marinelli
Recorded & Mixed by Ben Rachlis
David Alfonso - Music Preparation

"Thriller" Relived Performers
Rhodes Piano and Synthesizers: Greg Phillinganes
Synth Programming & Additional Synthesizers: Anthony Marinelli
Guitar: Tariqh Akoni
Trombone: Ryan Porter
Tenor Saxophone: Sean Sanderegger
Trumpet: Josef Leimberg

"Thriller" Original Team
Lead and Background Vocals: Michael Jackson
Songwriter: Rod Temperton
Producer: Quincy Jones
Synthesizers: Rod Temperton and Brian Banks
Rhodes Piano and Synthesizers: Greg Phillinganes
Synthesizer Programming: Anthony Marinelli
Guitar: David Williams
Trumpets and Flugelhorns: Jerry Hey and Gary Grant
Saxophone and Flute: Larry Williams
Trombone: Bill Reichenbach
Horn Arrangement: Jerry Hey
Vocal, Rhythm, and Synthesizer Arrangements: Rod Temperton
Effects: Bruce Cannon and Bruce Swedien
Voice-Over: Vincent Price
Additional Recording: Matt Forger"

Think Like a Synth by Anthony Marinelli

video upload by Anthony Marinelli Music

"* THINK LIKE A SYNTH * ✅
✏️ Learn the exact method I've used
for decades on hit records & films ✅
Go to ⬇️⬇️⬇️
https://anthonymarinellimusic.com/col..."

"Think Like a Synth represents more than just a collection of synthesizer lessons—it's my way of passing down the knowledge I've gathered over decades of creating signature sounds for some of the biggest records, films, and ads in history.

When I started out, I was incredibly fortunate to have mentors like Quincy Jones, Giorgio Moroder, Jack Nietzsche, Arthur B. Rubenstein, and my gifted synth teacher Clark Spangler. Learning directly from all of them—at the outset of my career— helped shape me into the artist I am today. They shared everything they knew, and now, I feel compelled to do the same for all of you about synthesizers.

My course contains 24 lessons, over 6.5 hours of the exact method I've used for decades on hit records and films including Quick Tips, Synth Knowledge, Lesson Homework, Ear-Training, Quizzes, Fun Facts and Synth Patch Block Diagrams to help you follow along as I build patches.

As you progress, you'll develop the unwavering confidence to know what every knob does before you turn it, empowering you to create any sound in your imagination and immediately set your music apart! People ask me, how do I remember all these sounds, let me tell you a secret, I don't, I simply follow the same step-by-step method I've been using for my entire career. "I Think Like a Synth"

Pro Synth Network LIVE! - Episode 242, with Special Guest, Anthony Marinelli!

video upload by Pro Synth Network

"Music Technology Discussion with Kent Spong, Andrew Longhurst & Rob Puricelli and our very special guest, Anthony Marinelli!

This week we welcome back our friend, composer, conductor. programmer, sound designer and now mega YouTuber, Anthony Marinelli. Anthony has been in the business for nearly five decades, composing music for film and advertising as well as being a go-to guy for synthesis programming, including the legendary NED Synclavier, on which he became expertly proficient.

Anthony has something very special to share with us so make sure you join us from the start of the show to find out what that is!"

The Secret Behind Plantasia’s Iconic Whistle Sound

video upload by Anthony Marinelli Music

"In this episode, I'll break down the iconic whistle sound that plays the unforgettable melody of Mort Garson's legendary synth album Plantasia. We'll delves deep into how this unique sound was put together on the very same instrument Mort used: my rare 1969 Moog IIIC modular synthesizer. After you watch this video, I'm confident you'll be able to re-create this sound on any hardware or virtual synth.

Plantasia has become a cult favorite, widely regarded for its pioneering use of analog synths, and its recent re-release in 2019 on Sacred Bones introduced this masterpiece to a whole new generation. Join me as I bring you the magic behind the expressive melody whistle sound on one of the best-selling albums in electronic music history!"

Additional Plantasia posts

The Plantasia Synth 💎 Crown Jewel of Analog with Mark Barton

video upload by Anthony Marinelli Music

You can find Alex Ball's The "Plantasia Moog" Modular Synth - An Untold Story here.

"Dive into the captivating story of Mark Barton, the genius behind groundbreaking inventions like SynDrums, his pioneering system called Speech Assisted Music (SAM) designed to convert text into speech, his work with Steve Job on the first Apple computer release and his award-winning plugin designs with Cherry Audio. Discover how Mark's love for sound led him to meeting Mort Garson and subsequently owning the legendary Moog "The Plantasia Synth" that Mort played on his best -selling album Plantasia, and how it eventually found a new home with Anthony! You'll also hear untold stories about Mort's Moog, Mort's Music and Mort's Genius. Join us as we explore the intersection of innovation and music, showcasing incredible creations and the stories behind them. Subscribe for more inside looks at the magic of synthesis!"

Building the Synclavier | Cameron Jones

video upload by Anthony Marinelli Music

"Join us in this fascinating excerpt into the mind of Cameron Jones, co-inventor of the revolutionary Synclavier! Discover the innovative spirit and groundbreaking techniques behind this iconic instrument that transformed the music industry. From concept to creation, Cameron shares his journey of blending technology and artistry, reshaping how we experience sound. Don’t miss this chance to explore the magic of the Synclavier and the visionary who brought it to life!"

How the Synclavier & Cameron Jones Changed Music

video upload by Anthony Marinelli Music

"Step into the world of the Synclavier - the revolutionary instrument that forever changed how music and sound are created. Join me and tech expert Rob Rosen as we explore the visionary genius work and life story of Cameron Jones, co-inventor of the Synclavier. This incredible instrument redefined music production with its groundbreaking capabilities, high-res sampling to precise event editing, transforming the workflow for engineers, producers and filmmakers. Discover how the Synclavier altered the course of music history with its lasting impact on how composers could write music and what they co do with quick access to mind-blowing sounds. You'll also find out what Cameron sees for the future of music creation, expression, music tech and AI. This video is a must-watch for musicians, music lovers, inventors, tech enthusiasts...anyone with a dream!

00:00 - The Future is Now
01:08 - Video Intro
02:14 - How The Synclavier Change Music
09:39 - Early Days of Electronics
18:51 - N.E.D. The Digital Music Revolution Begins
33:06 - Selling a Dream
38:37 - Fearless Design
43:39 - Mainstream Success
51:05 - Iconic Design
1:04:57 - Synclavier Rises Again
1:09:23 - The Power of Digital
1:21:33 - Epilogue"

Birthplace of Computer Music | CCRMA Labs Tour

video upload by Anthony Marinelli Music

"Anthony's musical touch as both composer and performer is connected with some of the most influential creative minds over the last 40 years. He’s composed and conducted original orchestral scores for over 80 feature films including _*Young Guns*_ , _*Internal Affairs*_ , _*The Man From Elysian Fields*_ , _*15 Minutes*_ and _*Planes, Trains & Automobiles*_ , been commissioned by the *Los Angeles Philharmonic* for his symphonic work "In the Family Way", written over one thousand TV commercials in a myriad of musical styles, co-founded Levels Audio Post (LA's premiere post production facility) and performed and arranged on big-box-office films and influential hit records such as *Michael Jackson's* _*Thriller*_ .

His extensive work as a young arranger, orchestrator and performer for *Quincy Jones* , *Jack Nitzsche* , *Lamont Dozier* , *Arthur Rubenstein* and *Giorgio Moroder* was vital in launching his own career. His early years pioneering modular analog synthesizers along with his wide-ranging music scholarship positioned Anthony at the center of the music technology revolution. He attended the University of Southern California School of Music as a piano and composition major.

*Website* - https://www.anthonymarinellimusic.com"

MJ’s “Man in the Mirror” Minimoog bass

video upload by Anthony Marinelli Music

"Anthony's musical touch as both composer and performer is connected with some of the most influential creative minds over the last 40 years. He’s composed and conducted original orchestral scores for over 80 feature films including Young Guns , Internal Affairs , The Man From Elysian Fields , 15 Minutes and Planes, Trains & Automobiles , been commissioned by the Los Angeles Philharmonic for his symphonic work "In the Family Way", written over one thousand TV commercials in a myriad of musical styles, co-founded Levels Audio Post (LA's premiere post production facility) and performed and arranged on big-box-office films and influential hit records such as Michael Jackson's Thriller .

His extensive work as a young arranger, orchestrator and performer for Quincy Jones , Jack Nitzsche , Lamont Dozier , Arthur Rubenstein and Giorgio Moroder was vital in launching his own career. His early years pioneering modular analog synthesizers along with his wide-ranging music scholarship positioned Anthony at the center of the music technology revolution. He attended the University of Southern California School of Music as a piano and composition major.

Website - https://www.anthonymarinellimusic.com"

John Chowning, Computer Music, DX7 & FM Discovery

video upload by Anthony Marinelli Music

"It was an honor for me to interview John Chowning who is directly responsible for the way we create music today in every genre! His visionary ideas have profoundly shaped contemporary music creation, including the integration of computers, AI, digital synthesis, sound sharing, and surround sound.

He stands as a monumental figure in 21st-century music, renowned for his pioneering contributions as a composer, musician, and educator. As the founding director of the Center for Computer Research in Music and Acoustics (CCRMA) at Stanford University, Chowning made groundbreaking strides in the field. His historic discovery of FM synthesis not only became one of Stanford’s most valuable patents but also paved the way for Yamaha’s DX7 synthesizer through their licensing of FM sound synthesis technology.

Another important aspect of Chowning's work is the simulated motion of sound through physical space creating an illusion of a continuous 360-degree space using only four speakers. John’s boundless curiosity and groundbreaking achievements have established him as a bright shining beacon of inspiration for musicians everywhere.

00:00 - Cold Open
00:42 - intro
02:27 - Read to Discovery
06:15 - Stanford & Early Electronic Music
14:26 - Discovering FM Synthesis
19:25 - The FM Enlightenment
23:14 - Yamaha DX7
31:09 - Synclavier VS Yamaha
36:02 - FM Made Simple
43:04 - The Power of Timbre
51:09 - Where are we now?"

Hands-On FM Synthesis w/ TimSund & Stephan Schmitt

video upload by Anthony Marinelli Music

Also see FM Synthesis Simplified w/ Legends Stephan Schmitt & Manny Fernandez.

"This video complements our 'Demystifying FM' video. It showcases Tim Sund's innovative patches from his performance at Superbooth 2024. You'll learn how to create these one-of-a-kind FM synthesis sounds with musical examples performed by Tim.

We'll also explore the value of Stephan Schmitt's synthesizer philosophy, which parallels classical instrument design focused on performers.

This isn't a sponsored video; Hanging out with synth designers and specialist performers is enlightening to me. I hope you gain as much musical and sound design insight as I have making this video!"

Alan R Pearlman Foundation Call To Artists: Open Submissions

via The Alan R Pearlman Foundation

"What Would You Do With A Studio Full of Rare Synthesizers + State of the Art Recording Gear + Room and Board for Five Days?

The Residency at the ARPs for All Project program is a new collaboration between the Alan R. Pearlman Foundation’s ARPS for All program and The Record Co, a well-known and beautifully renovated music facility in Boston. The Record Co features incredible recording and performance spaces plus a wonderfully-curated collection of vintage ARP synthesizers, including the only publicly-available ARP 2500 in the USA.

The Alan R. Pearlman Foundation’s mission is to make ARP’s classic and groundbreaking synthesizers widely available in order to inspire future generations of musicians. This Residency is a natural expression of our goals. While creating a unique musical work with our support, our chosen recipient will inspire emerging musicians to follow their own muse, making use of the same classic ARP synths. Through this program, the recipient will have the opportunity to not only take an important next step in their own career, but also to give something back to the music community.

Based on the submission form, the Foundation will select and support an artist in the creation of a special musical work incorporating the vintage ARP synthesizers at The Record Co. The end result could be a full album, a single song, a synth-backed video project, a series of synth tutorial videos, or another concept that inspires you to create.

HERE'S HOW THE PROGRAM WORKS!

The recipient will have access to The Record Co facilities and gear, the current ARPs for All Instrument collection, and 5 days of time. The space boasts an impressive collection of recording studios, production suites, sought-after equipment, and knowledgeable engineers to help amplify your creative process.

The chosen recipient will receive:
5 days of studio time at The Record Co
Hotel accommodations for the duration of the residency
Per diem for meals
Orientation at the studio
Educational materials from the ARP Foundation
Ongoing public recognition from The Record Co. and the Alan R. Pearlman Foundation
A fantastic creative experience with creative minds of every experience level

The recipient will be chosen by a committee of music industry leaders with notable achievements in the field of synthesis. During the review process, the identities of applicants will be hidden from the committee. The recipient will be selected based on their existing body of work, as well as on the project they intend to work on during their residency.

AMONG THE COMMITEE ARE ESTEEMED AUDIO PROFESSIONALS INCLUDING:
Anthony Marinelli
Panic Girl
Lisa Bella Donna
David Baron

THE RESIDENCY SCHEDULES ARE AS FOLLOWS:
Option 1: October 29-November 2, 2024
Option 2: December 3-7, 2024
Option 3: March 4-8, 2025
*The last day of the residency will be a performance, presentation, listening party!

RESIDENCY APPLICATION & SUBMISSION DETAILS:
The Residency Application Form on the Foundation Website
Please read the application & requirements (including the terms and conditions)
Fill out the form and submit examples of your existing work along with a proposal of the project you’d like to create

Submission Deadline: Monday September 16, 2024"

FM Synthesis Simplified w/ Legends Stephan Schmitt & Manny Fernandez

video upload by Anthony Marinelli Music

"Join us for an incredible masterclass into the world of FM synthesis with two legends in the field! Stephan Schmitt, the visionary founder of Nonlinear Labs and Native Instruments, and the genius behind REAKTOR, teams up with Manny Fernandez, renowned for his groundbreaking FM programming on Yamaha’s iconic synthesizers including the DX7II, SY77, SY99, FS1R, DX200, RefaceDx, Montage, and his insightful tutorials on YamahaSynth.com.
In this video, Stephan and Manny will demystify FM synthesis, breaking down complex concepts into simple, actionable steps. Whether you're a seasoned synth enthusiast or a curious beginner, this masterclass will empower you to create the sounds you’ve always imagined. Learn from the experts as they share their tips, techniques, and secrets to mastering FM synthesis, making it accessible and fun for everyone.
Don't miss this chance to elevate your sound design skills with insights from two of the greatest minds in the industry."