How is this kind of ambient music created?

[ghostwhistler]

Just one example: https://steveroach.bandcamp.com/track/dream-body-2

There's a lot of composers producing this kind of stuff and some of it is very engaging. I'm going to assume there's a bit more to it than just holding down one or two chords for twenty minutes while routing them through 10 different delays and reverbs.

if anyone out there composes this sort of stuff, now is the time to share your secrets! Thanks

[chk071]

I frankly don't understand such questions. Do you really expect someone to break down in every detail how Steve Roach produces his music now?

You have a vast amount of music in your Bandcamp account. I'm sure that you can figure this out.

[ThoughtExperiment]

I was going to suggest holding down a chord for 20 minutes etc but it looks like you don't need my help.....

[BertKoor]

Step 1: watch the ocean and the sky
Step 2: join a yoga / meditation class
Step 3: learn to play the didgeridoo
Step 4: only if you feel inspired, go make some music
Step 5: back to step 1.

[zerocrossing]

Step 1: watch the ocean and the sky

…and then buy a synthesizer.

Step 2: join a yoga / meditation class

…and then buy a really nice reverb unit.

Step 3: learn to play the didgeridoo

Get frustrated trying to learn circular breathing and get rid of the didgeridoo. Keep it for decoration.

Step 4: only if you feel inspired, go make some music

Realize you need a field recorder and another synthesizer.

Step 5: back to step 1.

Add an audio looper to your shopping list.

[SHall1000]

I was going to suggest holding down a chord for 20 minutes etc but it looks like you don't need my help.....

That’s far too much effort……..the Roach piece is only 11 minutes 12 seconds long!

[seangm]

Step 1: watch the ocean and the sky
Step 2: join a yoga / meditation class
Step 3: learn to play the didgeridoo
Step 4: only if you feel inspired, go make some music
Step 5: back to step 1.

Step 0: Edibles

[Uncle E]

Write the first 60 seconds of this song and then strip away anything that might be considered a hook:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i-P98B2skts

[Aaron Marshall]

You hold down the key, and move your eyebrows up and down at varying rates. It adds a lot to the sustained sound.

Oh and maybe use an Eventide DSP4000-7000 with some pitchy reverbs + create some feedback loops with various pedals, outboard gear.