I've been using VDL for a couple of years now and love it.  I am wondering if there are  tutorials or such on how to use it in general.  My basic problem is that I will admit that I really have little knowledge about percussion mapping and how to properly write in Finale to get the right sounds.  I basically took the easy way out and just used the Finale 2005 map.  When trying the VDL Finale 2008 Template, I just get all confused.  I've went all through the forums and spent hours reading posts, but most of it to me is like reading french (i can't read french).  Is there somewheres I can go or read that will help me...or is it that I just don't get it.  Any help will be appreciative.

I assume you looked through the FAQ here: https://www.tapspace.com/support/faq/

Your request is pretty vague.  Here's a basic workflow concept that might help you:

1. You open the Finale template
2. You open VDL as a VST inside Finale
3. You load instruments into the VDL player
4. You assign those instruments to the staves in the template
5. You use the Keyboard maps in the VDL manual, so you know which key to press on your MIDI keyboard to get the right sound
6. The template places the correct looking note on the staff regardless of which keyboard key you press.  (ex: Left-hand snare might be F# on the keyboard, but will appear in the A space on the staff)
7. Write your music and export an audio file when done.

Everyone learns in a different way- like a lot of people, I'd rather watch a tutorial video than read a manual.  Making music on computers is not an easy task learned overnight and requires a lot of reading.  Maybe there's someone else in your area using VDL that can give you some face-to-face help? 

Hey Dave...its Chris.

Let me know what you need help with.  You could always stop by SIS and I could help you out.

-Chris

[quote author=J Mattson link=topic=2303.msg12111#msg12111 date=1203059711]
I assume you looked through the FAQ here: https://www.tapspace.com/support/faq/

Your request is pretty vague.  Here's a basic workflow concept that might help you:

1. You open the Finale template
2. You open VDL as a VST inside Finale
3. You load instruments into the VDL player
4. You assign those instruments to the staves in the template
5. You use the Keyboard maps in the VDL manual, so you know which key to press on your MIDI keyboard to get the right sound
6. The template places the correct looking note on the staff regardless of which keyboard key you press.  (ex: Left-hand snare might be F# on the keyboard, but will appear in the A space on the staff)
7. Write your music and export an audio file when done.

Everyone learns in a different way- like a lot of people, I'd rather watch a tutorial video than read a manual.  Making music on computers is not an easy task learned overnight and requires a lot of reading.  Maybe there's someone else in your area using VDL that can give you some face-to-face help? 
[/quote]

Thanks alot Jesse.  Sorry for being so vague.  I am starting to understand more now.  I should of asked if there is a way to input without using a MIDI keyboard.  I am one who likes to write more ";manually"; in a sense.  I think I will go try and using a MIDI Keyboard.  Thanks again.


[quote author=chrisrivera link=topic=2303.msg12112#msg12112 date=1203079686]
Hey Dave...its Chris.

Let me know what you need help with.  You could always stop by SIS and I could help you out.

-Chris
[/quote]

Hey Chris.  I never put two and two together when I saw some of your posts, just to ask you.  Anyways, thanks for the offer.  I will definately get in touch with you to take you up on it.