Renardo's `play()` instrument uses a string of characters to define a rhythmic sample pattern

The play() SynthDef in Renardo (and FoxDot) accepts a string where each character maps to a sample: letters/digits select samples, . is a rest, - is a half-beat space, and special grouping characters allow polyrhythmic structures. Parentheses () group hits that share a beat (only one plays per cycle position); angle brackets <> alternate between groups each cycle; curly braces {} create a sub-group that cycles internally. This makes drum sequencing fast and readable without numeric arrays. The sample= keyword selects between sample variants (numbered banks).

Examples

d1 >> play("x-o-")            # kick, rest, snare, rest
hh >> play(".-", sample=4)   # hi-hat with sample variant 4
k1 >> play("(V.).(.x.)(..)", dur=0.25)  # grouping for polyrhythm

Assessment

Write a play() pattern that puts a kick on beat 1 and 3 and a snare on beat 2 and 4 in a 4/4 bar at dur=0.5. Explain what the parentheses do in play("(xo)--")