Note on

Definition

A 'note on' refers to the MIDI message that indicates the beginning of a musical note being played, usually involving a specific pitch and velocity. This message is crucial in digital music production as it triggers sound synthesis or playback in virtual instruments, making it a fundamental element in performance and sequencing.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'Note on' messages contain three bytes: the status byte that indicates the type of message, and two data bytes that specify the pitch and velocity of the note.
2. In a typical MIDI implementation, 'note on' messages can trigger various parameters in synthesizers, allowing for dynamic sound manipulation.
3. 'Note on' messages are essential for MIDI sequencing, as they dictate when notes are played in relation to the timing grid.
4. MIDI systems can recognize multiple 'note on' messages simultaneously, allowing for polyphonic play, where multiple notes are played at once.
5. The accuracy of 'note on' messages is vital for achieving precise timing and expression in music production, influencing how music is recorded and edited.

Review Questions

• How does a 'note on' message affect sound generation in a MIDI system?
  • 'Note on' messages are integral to sound generation within a MIDI system. When triggered, they inform synthesizers or virtual instruments to begin producing sound at a specified pitch and velocity. This immediate action allows musicians and producers to create dynamic performances, with each 'note on' contributing to the overall texture and expressiveness of the music being created.
• Compare the functions of 'note on' and 'note off' messages in MIDI communication.
  • 'Note on' messages initiate sound production by signaling that a note should be played, while 'note off' messages terminate the sound when it's no longer needed. Together, these messages form the basis of musical expression in MIDI, as they dictate when notes are activated and deactivated. The relationship between these two types of messages is crucial for creating musical phrases and ensuring proper timing within compositions.
• Evaluate how understanding 'note on' messages contributes to effective MIDI editing and quantization practices.
  • Understanding 'note on' messages is essential for effective MIDI editing and quantization because it informs producers about how notes are triggered within their sequences. By recognizing the significance of pitch and velocity within 'note on' messages, producers can make more informed decisions about timing adjustments and velocity layers. This knowledge enables them to achieve greater precision in their musical arrangements, leading to more polished final products that reflect intended dynamics and expressions.

Related terms

MIDI:

MIDI stands for Musical Instrument Digital Interface, a protocol that allows electronic musical instruments and computers to communicate and synchronize with each other.

Velocity: Velocity in MIDI refers to the speed or force with which a note is played, impacting the loudness and articulation of the sound produced.

Note Off: The 'note off' message in MIDI signals the end of a note being played, indicating when the sound should stop.