Build a Custom Orchestral Playback Template in Dorico

Class Overview
This class walks you through the complete process of building a personalized orchestral playback template in Dorico. From planning your library setup to configuring VE Pro, expression maps, and articulation switching, you’ll gain full control over how your orchestral mockups sound and respond to your notation. Whether you’re just getting started with playback templates or want to optimize your workflow, this course will help you go beyond factory defaults and build a system that fits your sound libraries.

What You Will Learn
By the end of this class, you’ll know how to:

• Plan and document a clear articulation switching structure

• Build custom endpoints with ports, channels, and audio routing

• Create and refine expression and percussion maps

• Implement condition-based techniques using Dorico’s add-on system

• Connect everything through VE Pro for modular, reliable playback

Why You Should Take This Class
A well-built playback template saves time, improves mockup quality, and reduces frustration. By understanding how expression maps, condition-based switching, and endpoint setups work, you’ll have a flexible, reusable system that mirrors professional composer workflows. This class gives you the tools to customize Dorico to your libraries—not the other way around.

Who This Class Is For
This class is for composers and orchestrators using Dorico who want to create polished mockups with third-party libraries. You should already know how to navigate Dorico’s interface. Some experience with VE Pro and sample libraries is recommended but not required.

Materials / Resources

You’ll need:

• Dorico 4 or later

• Berlin Free Orchestra or a third-party orchestral library (VST3 compatible)

• Optional: VE Pro for remote hosting

• A written list of your articulation switching logic (template planner PDF worksheet included)