Dorico Expression Maps: Create Smarter, Flexible Templates

Learn to design expression maps, layered articulations, and playback templates for pro-level orchestral control.

What you'll learn

Demystify expression maps and percussion maps and learn to build your own.

Build a playback system that you can have confidence in - including dynamics and reliable articulation playback

Create reusable playback templates

Learn how to import / export / share settings and configurations for collaboration

Avoid common mistakes and develop an ultra-modern switching structure

Requirements

A working copy of Dorico (Version 4 or later recommended)

Basic familiarity with notation input and layout in Dorico

Optional: Vienna Ensemble Pro (VE Pro) if you plan to use multi-port templates

Curiosity, patience, and a desire to build a long-term orchestral workflow

Description

Build Smarter Expression Maps and Playback Templates in DoricoLearn how to design efficient, flexible expression maps and playback templates that bring your sample libraries to life.What you’ll learn in this course:Build custom expression maps using base and add-on switchesControl dynamics and articulations with MIDI ports, CCs and channelsCreate reusable playback templatesMaster endpoints using endpoint projectsIntegrate VE Pro or standalone plugins into your workflow (optional)Avoid common playback issues through clean switching structuresUnlock expressive playback and streamline your orchestral workflowMany composers struggle to get reliable playback in Dorico, especially when using third-party sample libraries. This course gives you a practical, repeatable method for building expression maps and playback templates that work—no guesswork, no frustration.You’ll begin by learning how expression maps actually function under the hood: how Dorico interprets playing (and playback) techniques, what base and add-on switches do, and how to build your first map from scratch. From there, you’ll explore layering articulations, designing MIDI CC controls (Add-Ons), configuring exclusion groups, and refining your maps for real-world musical use.Once your maps are built, you’ll shift to the orchestral template level—designing playback structures using endpoints, channels, ports, and VE Pro (optional if you use it). You’ll learn how to organize your switching logic, test playback reliability, and export clean, consistent templates for future projects.Every module is project-based and results in something usable. By the end of the course, you’ll have your own custom playback template that reflects your personal workflow and preferred libraries.Who this course is for:This course is ideal for intermediate and advanced Dorico users who want to take control of playback and build a more professional, expressive scoring environment. It’s especially useful for:Composers using SINE Player, VE Pro, or third-party libraries in DoricoUsers who want to replace key switches with smarter switching logicOrchestrators creating project templates for repeated useDorico users struggling with articulation reliability or dynamic mappingOther ConsiderationsPrior experience with basic notation and project setup in Dorico is recommended. You do not need to be an expert in VE Pro to benefit from this course, but if you use it, dedicated walkthroughs are included.

Overview

Section 1: Introduction

Lecture 1 Who is this Course For?

Lecture 2 What You'll Learn and Build

Lecture 3 Tools and Libraries You'll Need

Lecture 4 How to Use This Course Effectively

Section 2: Build Your First Expression Map

Lecture 5 What is an Expression Map?

Lecture 6 Playing vs. Playback Techniques

Lecture 7 Prepare Your Sample Library

Lecture 8 Build a Map from Scratch

Lecture 9 Define Base vs. Add-On Switches

Lecture 10 Discover Endpoints and Playback Templates

Lecture 11 Customize Playing Technique Symbols

Lecture 12 Final Tips and Project Guidance

Section 3: How to Layer Articulations

Lecture 13 Why Use Layered Articulations?

Lecture 14 Add-On vs. Base Switches

Lecture 15 Exclusion Groups

Lecture 16 Control with MIDI CC

Lecture 17 Building a Multi-Layered Expression Map

Lecture 18 Mapping Dynamic Range

Lecture 19 Testing a Map in the Real World

Lecture 20 Playback Tips for Expression

Section 4: Design Smarter, More Realistic MIDI Expression in Dorico

Lecture 21 Who Controls Dynamics in Dorico?

Lecture 22 Demystify Dorico's Dynamics Engine

Lecture 23 Mapping MIDI CC for Dynamics

Lecture 24 Discover Channel Switching

Lecture 25 Channels Instead of Key Switches

Lecture 26 CCs, Add-Ons and the Future of MIDI

Lecture 27 Demo - Add-Ons with CC Switches in SINE Player

Lecture 28 Legato and Negative Delay

Lecture 29 Automate Sample Variety with Conditions

Lecture 30 Assignment Guidelines

Section 5: Designing and Managing Professional Playback Systems

Lecture 31 Organization with Naming Conventions

Lecture 32 Building Sectional Maps

Lecture 33 How to Use Endpoints in Your Template

Lecture 34 Creating a Consistent Switching Structure

Lecture 35 Import and Export Maps Safely

Lecture 36 Versioning and Different Libraries

Lecture 37 Creating Templates for Ensembles

Lecture 38 Navigate the Library Manager

Lecture 39 Maintaining Templates Efficiently

Lecture 40 Wrap-Up and Project Guidance

Section 6: Build a Complete Orchestral Playback Template

Lecture 41 Plan Your Orchestral Template

Lecture 42 Design Your Switching Structure

Lecture 43 Organize and Build Your Section Endpoints

Lecture 44 Build Your Section Expression Maps

Lecture 45 Refine Your Expression Map

Lecture 46 Build a Section Percussion Map

Lecture 47 Finalize and Confirm Your Endpoints

Lecture 48 Assemble Your Playback Template

Lecture 49 Wrap-Up and Project Guidance

Section 7: Conclusion

Lecture 50 Recap Key Concepts

Lecture 51 Avoid Common Mistakes

Lecture 52 Suggested Next Steps and Resources

Intermediate to advanced Dorico users who are ready to move beyond basic notation and want to take full control of playback.,Composers and orchestrators using third-party sample libraries (Kontakt, SINE Player, VSL, etc.) who struggle with unreliable articulation switching or inconsistent dynamics.,Dorico users building custom templates who need a repeatable process to layer articulations, assign dynamic CCs, and orchestrate switches cleanly.,VE Pro users (or those planning to use it) who want to organize their playback routing, channels, and endpoints more professionally.,Musicians and music producers who want to create polished, flexible playback templates with expression maps central to their workflow.