6.3 Sequencing techniques and quantization

MIDI sequencing is the backbone of electronic music production. It allows musicians to record, edit, and arrange digital musical data, giving them precise control over every aspect of their compositions. From pitch and velocity to timing and effects, MIDI opens up a world of creative possibilities.

Advanced MIDI techniques take your music to the next level. Quantization tightens up rhythms, while velocity editing and automation add expression and movement. These tools let you fine-tune every detail, creating polished, professional-sounding tracks that captivate listeners.

MIDI Sequencing

Concept of MIDI sequencing

• MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) sequencing involves recording, editing, and arranging MIDI data to create electronic music compositions
  • MIDI data represents note information including pitch, velocity (loudness), and duration
  • Includes controller information for parameters like volume, panning (stereo positioning), and modulation (sound variation)
• Enables precise control and manipulation of electronic music compositions
  • Easily edit, quantize (align to rhythmic grid), and modify MIDI sequences
  • Trigger virtual instruments (software synthesizers) or control external hardware synthesizers
• Widely used in music production, live performances, film and video game scoring

MIDI creation in DAWs

• Create MIDI sequences in a DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) by:
  1. Recording MIDI performances using a MIDI controller (keyboard) or virtual instruments
  2. Drawing MIDI notes and events in the piano roll or MIDI editor
  3. Importing MIDI files from external sources (collaborators or online libraries)
• Edit MIDI sequences by:
  • Adjusting note pitch, velocity, and duration
  • Correcting timing and quantization
  • Transposing MIDI notes or sequences (changing key)
  • Copying, cutting, and pasting MIDI events
• Arrange MIDI sequences by:
  • Organizing MIDI tracks and instruments
  • Layering and combining different MIDI sequences (melody, harmony, bass, drums)
  • Creating transitions and variations in the arrangement
  • Applying MIDI effects and processing (arpeggiators, chord generators)

Advanced MIDI Sequencing Techniques

Quantization for rhythmic accuracy

• Quantization aligns MIDI notes to a specific grid or timing resolution to correct timing inaccuracies and improve rhythmic consistency
  • Apply quantization to individual notes, selected regions, or entire MIDI sequences
  • Adjust grid resolution (1/4 note, 1/8 note, 1/16 note) based on the desired rhythmic feel
  • Use swing and groove templates to add a human feel to the quantized MIDI (jazz, funk)
  • Control the quantize strength or percentage to balance timing correction and natural performance
  • Apply humanization features to introduce slight variations and imperfections in the quantized MIDI

Advanced MIDI editing techniques

• Velocity editing adjusts the velocity values of MIDI notes to control loudness and dynamic expression
  • Create accents, ghost notes (quieter notes), and dynamic variations in MIDI performances
  • Shape the overall dynamics and feel of the MIDI sequence
• Note scaling adjusts the pitch or velocity of MIDI notes based on a specific scale or range
  • Constrain MIDI notes to a specific musical scale or key (major, minor, pentatonic)
  • Compress or expand the velocity range of MIDI notes to control dynamic range
• MIDI automation records and edits parameter changes over time for dynamic and expressive control
  • Automate volume, panning, filters, and effects to create movement and interest
  • Record automation in real-time or draw automation curves and envelopes in the DAW
  • Create evolving soundscapes, build-ups, and breakdowns using MIDI automation