Note on

Definition

A 'note on' is a MIDI message that indicates the moment a musical note is played or triggered. This message typically contains information such as the pitch of the note and its velocity, which defines how hard the note is played. Understanding 'note on' messages is crucial for working with MIDI protocol and programming virtual instruments, as they are fundamental in determining how musical events are communicated between devices and software.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'Note on' messages can be sent simultaneously for multiple notes, allowing for chords to be played within a single MIDI channel.
2. Each 'note on' message contains three bytes of data: one for the status (indicating it's a 'note on'), one for the note number (which defines the pitch), and one for the velocity (indicating how hard the note is played).
3. 'Note on' messages are critical for virtual instruments because they determine when sounds are generated, influencing performance and composition.
4. In some cases, if a 'note on' message is received but not followed by a corresponding 'note off' message, the note may continue to sound indefinitely until manually stopped.
5. 'Note on' messages can be modified or generated by various MIDI controllers, allowing performers to influence how notes are expressed in real-time.

Review Questions

• How does a 'note on' message differ from other types of MIDI messages, and what role does it play in musical performance?
  • 'Note on' messages are specifically designed to indicate when a note starts playing, while other MIDI messages may control aspects like volume or effects. They play a vital role in musical performance because they trigger sounds from instruments or software. By understanding how 'note on' messages work alongside other types of MIDI messages, musicians can create dynamic performances and compositions with precise timing and expression.
• Discuss how the velocity information within a 'note on' message can affect the sound produced by a virtual instrument.
  • The velocity information included in a 'note on' message directly influences the intensity and character of the sound produced by a virtual instrument. Higher velocity values typically result in louder sounds or brighter timbres, while lower velocities yield softer or darker tones. This dynamic range allows composers and performers to express different emotions and nuances within their music, making velocity an essential element of MIDI programming for virtual instruments.
• Evaluate the importance of 'note on' messages in the context of MIDI protocol implementation and their impact on modern electronic music production.
  • 'Note on' messages are foundational to MIDI protocol implementation as they facilitate communication between various devices and software in electronic music production. Their ability to convey real-time note triggering allows musicians to layer sounds, create complex arrangements, and perform with expressive control. As electronic music continues to evolve, understanding 'note on' messages enables artists to harness technology effectively, pushing creative boundaries and exploring innovative sound design possibilities.

Related terms

MIDI Message: A standard digital signal used in MIDI to convey various musical information, including note events, control changes, and system commands.

Velocity: The speed and force with which a note is played, represented in MIDI as a numerical value that affects the sound's volume and timbre.

Note Off: A MIDI message that indicates when a musical note has stopped playing, completing the cycle of a note event in MIDI communication.