Playing Back MIDI
Just like recording MIDI parts, playing back MIDI requires that you assign each musical part to a different MIDI channel, one sound per channel.
“One sound per channel” doesn't mean monophonic, or one note at a time. One channel can be a piano patch playing many chords. Each keyboard of sound module will have a set “polyphony” number that sets how many notes can be played back at one time regardless of what channel it's on. Modern keyboards and sound modules allow for high polyphony, usually around twenty-four to forty-eight notes at once.
When playing back the recorded MIDI tracks, you can assign the MIDI tracks to specific sounds within the keyboard or sound module. For instance, you can have a string orchestra play your piano chords. Each separate track allows you to change the patch number and channel it transmits its MIDI data on. So, for example, you can record a simple part with your keyboard controller and assign it to a piano sound on your sound module or sampler. In the software program, you set the transmit channel to match the channel that your desired sound is located on the keyboard or sound module. Some keyboards and sound modules require you to set up the sounds on the unit itself, channel by channel. Most modern units allow the MIDI software to perform a “control change” and switch presets for you. Check your user manual to see if your equipment has this capability.
You should now be able to get started with MIDI in your studio. Remember, the beauty of MIDI is the control it gives you over your performance. Learn to embrace the advanced editing tools that your software of choice affords you.
