Frequently asked questions about MIDI

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How do I make a MIDIFILE?

It may sound like a daunting task, but really, making your own midifiles is simple. First things first, you'll need a sequencer (see What is a sequencer, and why should I use one? For specifics on how to record). Sequencers come in the form of both hardware and software.

Hardware sequencers are found in the majority of contemporary digital keyboards and most professional samplers and synths. These sequencers are built into the instrument itself, and enable you to record and save your performances. Most built in hardware sequencers on instruments are fairly self explanatory and easy to use. You should consult your owner's manual if you own such an instrument, and want to start making your own MIDI sequences. Most models of built in sequencers allow you to save your sequences to a floppy disk as a general midi or standard midi file, with the .MID file extension. How can you tell if your performances are stored in .MID format? Simply save them to a floppy disk, and load them up in your computer through your sequencer. Certain models of keyboards save performances or sequences into proprietary formats (formats that only your model of keyboard can read), so consult your dealer and owner's manual to see if there is a way to save your sequences to a MIDI file. Some manufacturers that make consumer and professional level keyboards and synths with built in sequencers include Roland, Korg, Yamaha, Ensoniq, and Emu to name a few.

Software sequencers open up new doors for providing fast, easy and efficient ways of controlling, recording and synchronizing MIDI devices that conform to the MIDI standard. If you've got an IBM compatible PC or Macintosh computer, sequencing is just about to get a whole lot easier. You can simply connect your MIDI instrument to your computer with a few cables and a MIDI interface, and start recording your performance in your software sequencer. Recommended reading: How do I connect a MIDI keyboard to my computer?

.back to midi faq.

What is MIDI?
How do I make a MIDIFILE?
How do I connect a MIDI keyboard to my computer?
What is a MIDI Interface, where can I get one, and how much do they cost?
What is a sequencer, and why should I use one?
What are the different sequencers, and what are the differences between them?
Should I be using a Macintosh computer or a PC to sequence music?
Are there any software packages available for printing out notation of my music or midifiles?
Can I convert a MIDIFILE to a WAV file?
Can I convert a WAV file to a MIDIFILE?
Help! I'm hearing 'double notes' when I play something on my keyboard into the sequencer!
What does 'multitimbral' mean?
What is 'polyphony'?
What is the difference between a sampler and a synth?
How do I make a midifile play on my website?

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