History of Midi

Task 1:

  • What is MIDI? 
  • What it stands for / the meaning? 
  • When it was invented? 
  • How it has developed? 
  • How do we use it / What can it do e.g. 16 channels (per port)? 
  • Why do we use it? 
  • Any other keywords associated with it and their meanings – highlight them. 
  • Advantages and disadvantages of this technology. 
  • Any useful visual aids…

Task 2 : What is a Sequencer?

  • Prepare a visual presentation of the different sequencing packages 
  • Draw a diagram for each Midi set up 
  • Different sequencing packages 
  • Loading Cubase 
  • Arrangement screen and tool bar 
  • Connecting up a sequencer

Task 3: MIDI Devices

  • Research the GM Midi numbers for all the instruments.
    • MIDI keyboards.
    • Multi-timbral.
    • Polyphonic.
    • VST Instruments.

Task 4: Types of Controller

  • List the controllers and their function.
    • Non-keyboards.
    • Why use a controller.
    • Slider, rotary and switch controls – balance volume.

    • Task 5: MIDI setups

    • Using Visual aids to help understanding show:
      • Simple MIDI setup.
      • MIDI In and Out.
      • MIDI Thru – disadvantages of ‘daisy-chaining’.
      • Master device / Slave device.

    Files

    List of GM Instruments

    MIDI Controllers


    Home Study Tasks

    Home Study Task 1

    Pick out the key words and write a paragraph summarising the lesson.

    Home Study Task 2

    Using the Illustrated Home Recording Handbook (Macdonald 2004) or similar resource from the school library prepare a short 5 min presentation on synthesized sound and the synthesizer.

    Home Study Task 3

    Using the Illustrated Home Recording Handbook (Macdonald 2004) or similar resource from the school library prepare a short 5 min presentation on samplers and sampling.