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Joining tracks and regions in GarageBand is a straight-forward process. After a few updates, it’s possible to join tracks in ways that I think were previously impossible. This includes not just MIDI regions but audio tracks.
To join regions in GarageBand, select both of them and use the shortcut “Command + J.” The same thing can be done with audio and MIDI files. The same thing can also be done for two audio and MIDI files on separate tracks. You’ll be given the option of using either “Stereo” or “Mono” before joining.
How to Join Regions on the Same & Separate Tracks
For this section, I’ll show you how to join regions on one track and then 2 separate tracks. Really, the process is the same no matter if the regions are one track or on 2.
1) Select Both Regions/Tracks
Regions On One Track
Regions on 2 Separate Tracks
2) Use “Command + J”
Regions on One Track
Regions on 2 Separate Tracks
I don’t see the purpose of this second strategy, but I imagine there are some use cases for it.
How to Join Separate Audio Tracks
Of course, the same thing can be done with audio tracks. And I’ll show you how to join separate regions and 2 separate tracks as well.
1) Select Both Tracks & Use the “Command + J” Shortcut
Just use a selection box like earlier.
2) Select “Stereo” or “Mono”
After you use the command to join them, you’ll get the option to join them as “Mono” or “Stereo.”
I’ll usually use “Stereo,” but it depends on how I’ve panned the tracks beforehand. Frankly, it’s not clear to me whether this was possible before, but I don’t think it was.
It’s important to note that the waveform will also change appearance once you have a stereo track.
Another thing that you should know is that how you panned the tracks before joining them will be consistent after you’ve joined them.
In other words, if you’ve panned one hard left and the other hard right, and then joined them together, that’s how it’ll sound afterward.
If you have any questions about the process, be sure to let me know in the comment section below.
Also, if you additional tips that I’m unaware of, please share them. I learn new things from commenters all of the time.
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