Phrase composing with step edit

The step entry method is just for recording a take, especially useful for those that can't play well. You could use it to enter the original motif as a take but something that simple and short (2 measures?) could probably be entered by hand using the mouse more easily.

I would try to achieve what you are suggesting through the use of nested containers with various parameters such as rhythm, transpose, modified figures or even harmony. Put the basic motif in the root or parent container and use child containers to add the variation and destruction.