A MIDI system, short for Musical Instrument Digital Interface system, refers to a protocol and hardware combination used in electronic music production, composition, and performance. It encompasses a set of standardized instructions that allows electronic musical instruments, computers, and other digital devices to communicate and synchronize with each other.
The MIDI system consists of three main components: MIDI messages, MIDI connectors, and MIDI devices. MIDI messages are digital data packages that contain specific commands such as note on/off, pitch bend, and control change. These messages are transmitted and received through MIDI connectors, typically using a five-pin DIN (Digital Interface Node) cable. These connectors facilitate the exchange of MIDI data between different devices, such as keyboards, drum machines, synthesizers, and computers.
MIDI devices include both input and output units. Input devices, like keyboards or drum pads, generate MIDI data based on the user's interaction. Conversely, output devices interpret MIDI data to produce sound, such as synthesizers or samplers.
The MIDI system grants users significant versatility, enabling them to connect multiple devices and control parameters such as pitch, velocity, and duration. It revolutionized the music industry by allowing musicians and composers to integrate various electronic instruments and software, enabling multi-track recordings, real-time performance, and seamless integration between different sound modules.
With its adoption, the MIDI system has become a standard in the music industry, not only for professionals but also for hobbyists and amateurs alike, offering a flexible and creative platform for music creation and performance.
