What is the primary function of a sequencer in music production?

The primary function of a sequencer in music production is to arrange and edit musical notes and sounds in a time-based sequence. This capability allows musicians and producers to organize their musical ideas, layering different sounds and instruments in a structured way. Through a sequencer, users can manipulate the timing, pitch, velocity, and other parameters of each note or sound, leading to a cohesive composition. This time-based sequencing allows for precise control over the musical arrangement, facilitating the development of complex pieces that can evolve over time.

While enhancing audio effects and distributing music tracks are important areas in music production, they do not encapsulate the core responsibility of a sequencer. Recording live performances, although crucial in some contexts, is primarily associated with audio recording equipment rather than the sequencing functions that are pivotal for post-production arrangement and editing. Thus, the function of arranging and editing is what sets the sequencer apart as an essential tool in music production.