Chord pads

Hi, was wondering whether anyone knows if it is possible to use a midi keyboard to play chords with pattern play in the chord pad feature at the lower keys, and use the upper keys to play individual notes? I have tried to split the kb and can trigger chords from the lower keys while soloing on the upper keys. However, the moment I select a pattern to play the lower keys there is no sound. Am not an experienced user so would be really grateful for any help. Thanks