ALICIA'S KEYS from Native Instruments is a virtual piano instrument that features her own Yamaha C3 Neo grand piano. This unique and highly-sought after instrument was built to celebrate Yamaha's 100th anniversary in 2002, and represents the very top of the Conservatory Collection line. With it, Alicia Keys has created a virtual piano that meets her professional standards and embodies the soulful sound that has become her trademark.
Using vintage microphones and preamps and through detailed analysis of Alicia's playing, the production team succeeded in capturing the warm, soulful and inspiring sound of the C3 Neo all the way down to the finest nuances. Personnel involved with the project included sample specialist Thomas Skarbye (Scarbee), impulse response expert Ernest Cholakis, and engineer Ann Mincieli.
Great effort was put into making ALICIA'S KEYS as authentic as possible. Designed with incredible precision, and incorporating subtle details such as mechanical release noises, a specially developed sympathetic resonance and release system, and even the sound of fingers hitting keys (optional), this unique instrument delivers plenty of lively realism.