How to Use the FL Studio Piano Roll
The Piano Roll is where the music happens. Master the basic tools for drawing, moving, and editing notes in FL Studio.
This guide introduces the primary workspace for composing melodies and chords. You will learn how to navigate the interface and use the essential drawing tools.
Follow these steps
Open the Piano Roll interface
Right-click any instrument in the Channel Rack and select 'Piano Roll'. This opens the grid where vertical position equals pitch.
Draw and Resize Notes
Select the Pencil tool from the toolbar. Left-click on the grid to place a note; click and drag the end of the note to change its length.
Delete and Move Notes
Right-click any existing note to delete it. To move a note, left-click its center and drag it to a new pitch or time position.
Manage Grid Snapping
Use the 'Snap to Grid' (magnet icon) to choose how notes align. Selecting '1/4 step' allows for precise placement, while 'Cell' snaps to the largest blocks.
Common mistakes
- Drawing notes that are too short to be heard or too long, causing unwanted overlap.
- Accidentally staying in 'Delete' mode (right-click) when trying to add new notes.