I've been working on a music project recently where being able to perform with software on a Laptop was a key issue. I was intrigued to try and do this in GarageBand. The Midi implementation is very cursory so being able to map USB midi keyboards and pads is a challenge if not impossible. It is easy to do in Cubase, Logic and Ableton.
So anyway I found a free synth called Remedy that work on PPC and intel Macs. It also allows you within GarageBand to map the CC controllers so that all of the knobs and sliders actions can be recorded into GarageBand performances.
This will enable far more control over soundscape and textures needed in KS3 school music projects- which is pretty cool.
Another cool free/demo piece of Software is addictive drums
This is fully functional although only has a bass, snare, hi hat and cymbal but it allows for full virtual recording studio effects. Most of these effect can be carried out in GarageBand but the GUI is very cool and a little more intuitive for kids. The effect in GB whilst good are very bare bones.
Finally my toy of the moment and not free - is my trigger finger.
I bought this for use with Ableton but I'm now starting to be able to use it in GarageBand which would be good for kids in schools that are not able to play a traditional instrument.
