Dom

Although the PlayStation 2 is tangibly ageing now, these are good times for owners of the console who are interested in something beyond conventional gaming or DVD playback.

Network gaming is introducing a new social dimension, while the EyeToy: Play camera provides novel fun.

Furthermore, a piece of software like Music 3000 enables you to use your PS2 as the hub of a digital studio, without the need for fancy audio equipment.

Considering most people have neither such technology nor even a piano in their homes, but very likely do have a PS2, Music 3000 is one way of encouraging musical creativity.

Sampling culture

The music creation series was launched in 1998 with Music on PSOne, followed by Music 2000 on PSOne and PC by Jester Interactive.

The company is exploiting the fact that much contemporary music comes from a sampling culture rather than a traditional music school.

With Music 3000 on PS2 , you can build up tracks - indie, metal, pop, garage, hip-hop or trance - with percussion, bassline, melody and lyric elements from sundry sample libraries, or from your own samples or lyrics, with another peripheral.

You can similarly create accompanying videos.

Now, I'm no musician. My musical career consisted solely of aborted piano lessons as a kid and a few noisy years playing drums with jamming friends.

And, admittedly, my first efforts with Music 3000 are not going to win any awards. But it proves it is possible, given the inclination and a bit of time, for even a non-musician to muster some semblance of music with the software.

Personally, I think I will stick to shooting stuff on my PS2, but for budding musicians who want to hone their skills in the comfort and safety of their own homes, Music 3000 offers great opportunities.

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Source: BBC