What is MIDI?

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What is MIDI?
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Data Types

• Sequencers use two types of data
• Audio sound from the real world
• MIDI control data used to trigger sound devices

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M.I.D.I.

• Musical Instrument Digital Interface
• Industry standard protocol
• Allows electronic musical devices from different
  manufacturers to communicate

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A MIDI Sequencer
Fig .1 A MIDI sequencer instructing electronic
instruments.
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A MIDI Keyboard
Fig .2 A MIDI keyboard triggering a virtual
instrument.
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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

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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

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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

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MIDI Note Numbers
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MIDI CCs

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

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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

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Equipment

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