David Calleja

Kontakt Instruments Developer




Contact me: [email protected]


ABOUT ME - My Journey to Kontakt DevelopmentCurrently, I am focused on the development of Kontakt Instruments, but it has been a long journey for many years that has led me to this point where I find myself working as a Native Instruments Kontakt developer; just so you can get to know me a little bit and know something about me, here is my story:I was born in Córdoba, Spain, in 1976, and I consider my profession as a way of life. My abiding love for music in all its expressions dates back to my childhood and encompasses a particular fascination with electronic music, especially its evolution during the 1990s.At the age of 17, I embarked on my career as a resident DJ at Qu and Kachao, two renowned nightclubs in Córdoba that were considered essential destinations at the time. Additionally, I collaborated with the Shambay project, an exclusive electronic music session where I shared the stage with notable DJs such as Fidel Trotman, David Almeda, Juanjo Martín, Monique 69, Bony Stuche and Jesse Strada, among others.In May 2004, I participated in World Dance Music 40 Principales Córdoba, performing at some of the most prestigious nightclubs in the city alongside Luis López, Jesse García and Antonio Cazalla.In 2005, I assumed the role of resident DJ at Silos Club and Stereo Club, where I performed alongside esteemed artists such as Expander and Yorka. My sets showcase a versatility that spans from smooth and refined deep house sounds to the most intense techno beats. I have graced the decks at prominent clubs throughout Spain, including Salou, Tarifa, Marbella, Sevilla, Cádiz and Torremolinos.In May 2009, I featured in the Reverse Tour alongside Henry Saiz, Marc Marzenit, Javi Unión, In & Out Project and other celebrated acts. I have also shared the stage with renowned DJs and producers such as Alex Under, Cora Novoa and Jose Luis Magoya.In 2011, music production assumed a fundamental and essential role in my life, and I began exploring new techniques and acquiring the knowledge required to create professional-grade sounds for my productions.At the end of 2012, I started producing full-time and worked on the Terpsicoresound project, which was a significant turning point in my career.Presently, I have accrued over 14 years of experience producing sample packs for a multitude of prestigious labels, including but not limited to Sample Magic, SampleSound, Sample Market, Two Waves, ADSR, Shaking Samples, Soundtracksloops, among others. My sample packs have been featured prominently on Beatport Sounds and various other online portals dedicated to the sale of sound libraries. I possess the capacity to produce sample packs of any genre within the electronic music spectrum, craft custom instruments for Native Instruments Kontakt, make presets for virtual synths, work as ghost producer and mixing and mastering engineer.One of my greatest accomplishments entailed the design of a bespoke Kontakt instrument for the esteemed producer, Uner. The project was of exceptional significance and personal importance to me.In the wake of the pandemic's onset, securing employment become a notably arduous task. The music industry, specifically the sales of labels and sample pack stores, also witnessed a significant decline, thereby impeding my work as a producer. Nonetheless, I worked actively to rediscover myself through music and reinvent my role within the industry, which has led me to dedicate myself, almost full time, to the development of Kontakt instruments.My services remain open to any prospective clients, and I am optimistic that we can reach a mutually beneficial agreement. It would be my pleasure to collaborate with your esteemed team. Warmest regards and a heartfelt embrace.David

ABOUT MY PORTFOLIO

In this section, you can view some scripts that I have developed in KSP (Native Instruments Kontakt scripting language). Their sole purpose is to be part of my portfolio (not for sale) and serve as examples of my skills and some of the options Kontakt offers. Please note that some of these scripts, while fully functional on their own, may not make much sense individually. The real power lies in combining several of them together in a single instrument. Although they only serve as part of my curriculum, they can provide you with some ideas for your instrument.Kontakt offers many possibilities, and it's impossible to showcase its full potential here, but at least, I have attempted to demonstrate some of the most common widgets that can be implemented in Kontakt. While KSP may not be a highly sophisticated programming language, it allows for the development of complex and aesthetically pleasing instruments, making the possibilities extensive. If you have any questions about Kontakt or KSP, feel free to contact me via email, and I will be happy to respond.Contact: [email protected]

MY KONTAKT PORTFOLIO

FULL INSTRUMENT
In this example, witness how the seamless integration and interaction of various Kontakt KSP widgets culminate in a fully functional and complete instrument.



WAVETABLES
In this script, I used Kontakt's Wavetable mode, which allows you to modify the waveform to create your own custom sounds. I also added a menu to choose from the different types of Wavetables offered by Kontakt, a volume control, and some effects to play with. Of note are the added Play and Stop buttons, which I configured so that the 2 knobs that control the shape of the wavetable automatically change randomly at the rhythm (bpms) specified in the DAW.



MULTIWIDGETS
Behold a script I designed to provide the instrument with 4 distinct pages accessible via a top menu. Each page offers diverse functionalities, including an envelope editor, effects, a sequencer, and even a page you can utilize for user-relevant information, such as explanations about the instrument itself, details about your company, or promotions for other instruments or sample packs from your business.



DRUM MACHINE
Observe a drum machine equipped with a preset browser to select from various kits and an array of effects to infuse dynamism and vitality into your drum patterns.



DRAG AND DROP AREA
This instrument features a dedicated area where you can drop and edit your own samples within Kontakt. I also designed an arpeggiator and a compact granulator. While the instrument may appear straightforward, it belies a highly intricate script, yielding a user-friendly and engaging experience.



GRANULAR SOUNDS
Two menus for selecting distinct sounds, an array of effects to manipulate them, waveform visualizations, and an aesthetically pleasing XY pad for dynamically controlling all four effects with a single control. While the design may appear simplistic, it is both visually appealing and highly functional.



RANDOMIZE BUTTON
A simple text transformed into a button. Upon clicking, this button randomizes the values of the effects assigned to it. This is merely a single example to illustrate the potential and possibilities offered by Kontakt's KSP language.



CASSETTE ANIMATION
Within this script, I demonstrate the ability to link any button—in this case, PLAY—to any animation and a variety of effects that simulate the sound of an old tape. I have also configured four buttons that offer the option to change the color of the user interface. While this may not be a practical instrument, it serves as a testament to the power of KSP programming.



MINION ANIMATION
This video showcases a script I developed to animate a video clip within Kontakt. As you turn the knob, the Minion animation reacts accordingly, while internally linked effects create increasingly wacky sounds. This is just a glimpse of the creative possibilities unlocked by Kontakt and its KSP programming language.



MINIMALIST CONCEPT
In this example, I have seamlessly integrated two volume meters within the headphones of the interface's graphic design. This serves as yet another testament to the potential for crafting interfaces that are both visually captivating and highly functional.



BUTTONS, SLIDERS AND OTHERS
Here is a selection of user interface controls, including buttons, sliders, knobs, volume meters, and more.

MY SKILLS

  • Proficiency in Kontakt Scripting Language to create advanced and functional scripts.

  • Experience in accurately mapping and assigning samples to ensure optimal instrument performance.

  • Ability to design and create visually appealing and functional graphical interfaces to enhance user experience.

  • Capability to conduct high-quality recordings, if necessary, to customize and enrich the sample library.

  • Skill in optimizing instrument performance, ensuring efficient and seamless response.

  • Proficiency in identifying and resolving issues related to scripts, sample mapping or any other technical aspect.

  • Commitment to continuous skill and knowledge updates to stay abreast of the latest trends and technologies in Kontakt instruments development.

  • Clear and effective communication skills to understand client needs and explain technical aspects to a non-technical audience.

  • Capacity to think creatively and contribute innovative ideas in the development of new instruments.

  • Ability to implement advanced automation in scripts for greater versatility and dynamism in instrument performance.

  • Skill in conducting thorough testing and debugging to ensure the stability and functionality of the instrument in different environments.

  • Proficiency in using collaborative tools such as project management software, communication platforms, and file-sharing systems.

  • Ability to create prototypes or demos for showcasing instrument features and functionality before final implementation.

  • Expert knowledge of digital audio workstations (DAWs) such as Ableton Live and Logic Pro, necessary for Kontakt's interaction.

  • Strong understanding of music theory and composition principles, not applicable in the general development of Kontakt instruments, but essential for the proper mapping of your samples and for the programming of certain scripts related to chords and other musical articulations.

  • Proficiency in using MIDI controllers, synthesizers and drum machines, in the event that the client requires me to record their samples myself.

  • Understanding of different sound design techniques to create unique sounds, useful for the development of some more complex scripts.

  • Ability to collaborate with other musicians and producers to create music projects.

  • Knowledge of copyright laws and licensing agreements for music production.

  • Ability to manage and organize project files and audio assets.

  • Understanding of audio file formats and conversion techniques.

  • Understanding of audio signal flow and processing techniques.

  • Proficiency in using audio analysis and restoration tools.

  • Ability to work efficiently and meet project deadlines.

  • Knowledge of different types of hardware synthesizers, drum machines and samplers.

  • Proficiency in using hardware processors such as compressors, EQs and reverbs.

  • Ability to create and edit audio loops and one-shots.

  • Knowledge of mastering techniques for different mediums such as streaming services, vinyl and CD.

  • Proficiency in using virtual instruments and effects.

  • Ability to create and edit MIDI patterns and drum loops.

  • Knowledge of DJ software and live performance tools.

  • Ability to use machine learning algorithms for audio processing and synthesis.

Contact me

HIRING MY SERVICESIf you are interested in hiring my professional services as a Native Instruments Kontakt developer, please contact me via email to discuss your needs. We will talk about your project, your ideas and the various options provided by the Kontakt Scripting Language (KSP) for developing your instrument.You can ask me any questions you have about Kontakt and KSP, and I will gladly respond until all your doubts about your project are resolved. The conversation is always smooth, and I respond promptly, typically within the first 24 hours.Gradually, we will build and develop your instrument, shaping it into your initial concept. I won't just limit myself to programming your script based on the specifications you provide; I will also offer advice and suggestions drawn from my knowledge of KSP and my years of experience to enhance your instrument, aiming for maximum efficiency.Write to me now at the email address I provide, and let's discuss. Many of my clients have become friends with whom I continue to maintain a relationship. Developing these types of instruments takes time and a lot of communication with the client, ultimately forming a good friendship, always maintaining professionalism.I look forward to your message!Contact: [email protected]

HOW IT WORKS

In this section, I will explain to you step by step what the usual procedure is from the moment we establish contact until the final instrument is delivered:1º If you're interested in developing a Kontakt instrument and have any doubts about it or have already decided to hire my services as a developer, the first step is to contact me by email at the address I provide below. You can ask me any questions you may have and tell me in general terms what the initial idea you have in mind for your project is.
Contact: [email protected]2º I will respond to your email as soon as I receive it. Usually, I respond on the same day. From this point on, we will exchange several emails, in which you will explain your project to me, I will give you some suggestions, and we will refine your idea until all the necessary details are polished before starting to write code and develop the instrument. These emails do not commit you to anything. If after discussing, you decide not to hire my services or simply abandon the idea of building your instrument, it's perfectly fine.3º Once the instrument's specifications have been determined, I will send you a budget that will include all the features and components that will comprise it, along with its price. This price will depend on the complexity of the instrument, the number of elements, and other factors that we will have previously discussed via email.4º If, after reviewing the budget, everything appears to be in order and you decide to proceed, the first thing I will do is send you a .pdf with exhaustively detailed information on how to name all your samples before sending them to me to ensure correct mapping in Kontakt (in case you are going to provide your own samples, which is usually the norm). Again, if you have any questions after reading the .pdf, you can always ask me via email. I will be available for anything throughout the entire instrument development process.5º Most of my clients usually provide their own user interfaces, designed by themselves. Some even design their own knobs and sliders. All of this results in a lower price for the instrument. If you are going to design your own assets, you will need to send them to me as soon as possible. In order to start writing the code, I will need the user interface first. You can send me the samples later, as the mapping process for them is the final procedure, once I have finished writing all the code. We will discuss all of this via email.6º As I progress with the development of the instrument, I will send you continuous updates so you can check its appearance and functionality. For this, you will need to have at least version 7.6.0 of Native Instruments Kontakt. I do not have a set minimum number of revisions for your instrument. As long as it adheres to the conditions, features, and elements established in the budget, I will make all the necessary corrections until you are satisfied with the final result.7º Once the instrument is finished and no revisions are needed, I will send you the final version, which will have a different folder structure than the ones I will be sending you previously. This final version will have some files compressed so that your future clients do not have access to certain sensitive files of the instrument, such as the code or images. Finally, when you put your instrument up for sale, if you wish, I can publish it on my website and YouTube channel to help you with marketing.All these points are only guidelines, so you know how the process usually goes more or less. Obviously, I am flexible, and as we exchange emails, we will make decisions according to your needs.That's all. Write to me and tell me about your project:
Contact: [email protected]