Note on

Definition

A 'note on' refers to a MIDI message that indicates the start of a note being played or triggered in a MIDI sequence. This message is crucial in MIDI sequencing as it conveys information such as the pitch of the note, its velocity (how hard it is played), and other parameters that affect how the sound will be produced.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'Note on' messages are part of the basic MIDI protocol and typically consist of three bytes of data: the status byte, the note number, and the velocity.
2. The velocity value in a 'note on' message can range from 0 to 127, where a higher value corresponds to a louder sound.
3. If a 'note on' message is received with a velocity of zero, it is interpreted as a 'note off' message, effectively stopping the sound without sending a separate message.
4. 'Note on' messages can trigger various sound parameters depending on the synthesizer or instrument being used, allowing for expressive performance control.
5. The timing and order of 'note on' messages are crucial in creating musical phrases and sequences in MIDI sequencing.

Review Questions

• How do 'note on' messages affect the performance of MIDI instruments?
  • 'Note on' messages are fundamental to triggering notes in MIDI instruments. Each message contains information about the pitch and velocity of the note being played, which directly influences how the instrument sounds. A higher velocity results in a louder sound, while different pitches correspond to different notes. Thus, understanding 'note on' messages is essential for creating dynamic and expressive musical performances using MIDI.
• Discuss how 'note on' messages work in conjunction with other MIDI messages during a musical performance.
  • 'Note on' messages operate alongside other MIDI messages like 'note off' to create coherent musical sequences. When a musician plays a note, a 'note on' message is sent; when they release it, a 'note off' message follows. These messages work together to define the start and end of each note, which is critical for accurate timing and expression. Additionally, other messages such as control changes can modify how notes sound in real time, further enhancing musicality.
• Evaluate the impact of note velocities transmitted by 'note on' messages on the overall texture of a musical piece.
  • 'Note on' message velocities play a significant role in shaping the texture and dynamics of a musical composition. By varying note velocities, composers can create contrasts between soft and loud passages, adding emotional depth to their music. For example, high velocities can impart energy and excitement during climactic moments, while lower velocities might evoke introspection or tenderness. This ability to manipulate dynamics through 'note on' velocities allows for more expressive performances and richer musical storytelling.

Related terms

MIDI: Musical Instrument Digital Interface, a protocol used to communicate between musical devices and computers, allowing them to send and receive performance data.

Velocity: A measure of how quickly a note is played, affecting its loudness and timbre, which is transmitted with 'note on' messages in MIDI.

Note Off: A MIDI message that indicates the end of a note being played, signaling the sound to stop or fade out.