What is MIDI?

1. What is MIDI?

2. Data Types • Sequencers use two types of data: • Audio: sound from the real world • MIDI: control data used to trigger sound devices

3. M.I.D.I. • Musical Instrument Digital Interface • Industry standard protocol • Allows electronic musical devices from different manufacturers to communicate

4. Sound Electronic Instrument with MIDI input Electronic Instrument with MIDI input MIDI data MIDI data MIDI Sequencer Sound MIDI data Electronic Instrument with MIDI input Sound A MIDI Sequencer Fig .1 A MIDI sequencer instructing electronic instruments.

5. MIDI Keyboard MIDI data Computer V.I. host Virtual Instrument Sound A MIDI Keyboard Fig .2 A MIDI keyboard triggering a virtual instrument.

6. MIDI Can be Used • To control several different parameters on several different channels at once • To switch patches on guitar pedals • To synchronise the BPMs of devices: • e.g. a record deck to a drum machine

7. Pros & Cons of MIDI in Composition • Can create really complex music • MIDI control data can be precisely edited which removes the need for: • skilful playing • re-recording • Editing MIDI can become very time consuming

8. MIDI Messages • Note On command: • a channel number 1-16 • a pitch (e.g. middle C = 60) • a velocity (loudness) • Note Off command: • channel number, pitch, release velocity

9. 58 61 63 66 68 70 73 59 60 62 64 65 67 69 71 72 MIDI Note Numbers

10. MIDI CCs • MIDI Continuous Controllers • further MIDI messages that affect notes • e.g. aftertouch • parameter control • e.g. filter cut off

11. MIDI CCs • Filter cut off assigned to controller 18 • Slider value 1-127 is transmitted along with “18” • MIDI CCs are sometimes pre-assigned to particular functions on a synth • MIDI CCs can also often be assigned using MIDI learn

12. Equipment • MIDI/Audio Interface (M-Audio FT Ultra) • Microphones • condensor (AKG C3000 B) • dynamic (Shure SM57) • Other devices: • Tenori-on • Kaos Pad 3