In this article
An arpeggio plays the notes of a chord one after another. An arpeggiator generates a repeating note pattern from held or supplied notes. The order, rate, octave range and note length shape the result as much as the chord itself.
Hear the examples.
Choose an example, then press Play. Compare the notes as well as the sound.
C major
The major third is E. Keep C and G in place when comparing major with minor.
These are not Captain Plugins audio.Ready to play
Separate the chord from the pattern
Start with C–E–G. Played together, the notes form a block chord; played C–E–G–C–G–E, they form an arpeggio. The harmony stays C major even though the rhythm and contour change.
Try upward, downward and alternating orders with the same notes. A sequencer can use any programmed pitches, while an arpeggiator usually works from an input set. Some tools combine both behaviours, so check what your chosen device actually does.
Set rate and note length together
Choose a tempo-synced rate such as eighth or sixteenth notes. Begin with short notes so attacks stay clear, then increase gate length until the pattern connects as intended. A slow-attack pad may hide a fast pattern altogether.
Listen against the hats and main melody. If all three parts use constant sixteenths, the track may need fewer events. Try half the arp rate or remove selected steps instead of increasing the volume.
Follow each chord change
Over C–Am, change the available notes from C–E–G to A–C–E. Keeping the old G can create Am7, which may be useful, but it should be a choice. Watch any held notes or delays that cross into the next harmony.
Keep a similar contour across the changes while adjusting notes to the chord. A small octave range is easier to fit around a vocal. Expand it only where the arrangement leaves room.
Add movement without losing the pattern
Automate filter cutoff or a restrained change in velocity while keeping the core rhythm recognisable. Try an occasional rest or a different last note at the end of an eight-bar phrase.
Print or export MIDI when you want to edit individual generated notes, if the tool supports it. Keep an audio reference too. After recording, check timing and note overlaps rather than assuming the captured pattern matches every detail you heard.
Keep the notes in view.
| Control | What it changes | Starting test |
|---|---|---|
| Order | Pitch sequence | Up vs. down |
| Rate | Time between notes | Eighths vs. sixteenths |
| Gate | Note length | Short and separated first |
| Octave range | Register and reach | One octave before expanding |
| Input notes | Harmony | Update at each chord change |
Try it in Captain Chords.
Write the harmony in Captain Chords and export MIDI. Use your DAW to turn the chord tones into a note pattern, then compare it with the original block chords.
See the current editing workflow.
The Captain Plugins 8 update video shows the canvas and selection-based editing.
Common questions
Is an arpeggio a melody?
It can function as a melodic line, especially when its rhythm and contour become a recognisable part. It still outlines chord tones.
Do I need an arpeggiator plugin?
No. You can write the notes directly in a piano roll or play them by hand.
Why does the arp clash after the chord changes?
Check held input notes, latch behaviour, delay tails and recorded MIDI overlaps. The old chord may still be sounding.