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New software instrument provides the exquisite sound of Alicia Keys’ own grand piano, developed in collaboration with the acclaimed artist
ALICIA’S KEYS is a new software that recreates Alicia Keys’ personal
grand piano with outstanding authenticity and playability. Developed in
close collaboration with the Grammy-winning artist, the software is
used as the primary instrument on her new album and on the current
world tour. ALICIA’S KEYS is a unique and highly affordable way for
musicians of all experience levels to utilize Alicia’s acclaimed
signature piano sound in their own music production, live performance,
and recreational playing.
Designed as a comprehensive digital recreation of Alicia Key’s own
custom Yamaha “C3 Neo” grand piano, and based on Native Instruments’
industry-leading KONTAKT 4 sampler platform, ALICIA’S KEYS provides a
soulful and intimate piano sound that perfectly accommodates R&B,
soul and pop styles. The instrument was meticulously recorded in
Alicia’s personal studio by her engineer Ann Mincieli and renowned
sampling expert Thomas Scarbee over the course of two years, using
vintage microphones and high-end outboard studio gear that produced an
exquisite piano tone with supreme sonic fidelity.
“I love this software so much that I used it on my entire new album.
Not once did I record a live piano because there was just no need”,
says Alicia Keys. “I plan to tour with this sound and use it all around
the world. I love how it gives those who may not be able to buy an
acoustic piano a true piano experience.”
Utilizing 17 GB of high-resolution samples with 12 discrete velocity
layers per note, and sophisticated emulation of crucial sonic aspects
like key release, sustain pedal functionality and sympathetic
resonance, ALICIA’S KEYS sets a benchmark in the digital recreation of
acoustic instruments. The convenient user interface of the software
gives intuitive control over the sound to further adjust it to the
specific musical context and personal playing style, and also includes
a studio-quality convolution reverb that provides various authentic
room ambiences ranging from a small piano chamber to a large stage or
concert hall.
ALICIA’S KEYS can be used on any Windows and Macintosh computer with
the included free KONTAKT PLAYER, and can also be loaded into the
full-featured professional KONTAKT 4 sampler for additional in-depth
sound editing.
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