Mockup Preparation

Mockup preparation is the creation of a realistic virtual rendition of a piece of music using MIDI data and sampled or synthesized instruments, before any live recording takes place.^[1] A convincing mockup lets composers, directors, and clients hear and approve a cue, and it doubles as a detailed guide for the eventual live session.

Producing a good mockup involves careful programming of dynamics, articulations, and timing so that virtual instruments behave believably rather than mechanically. The finished mockup informs orchestration and balance decisions and can be blended with live recordings later, which reduces uncertainty and saves expensive studio time.^[2]