MIDI Files

How to Make, Open, Edit and Convert MIDI Files

A MIDI File is a backing track created by inputting notes and events via a MIDI keyboard into a sequencing programs like Logic Pro X, Sonar, Cubase and Pro Tools. MIDI Files use the extension .MID. M.I.D.I is an acronym Musical Instrument Digital Interface. MIDI is pronounced "mid-ee".

MIDI Files differ to audio files like WAV or MP3 because MIDI Files do not contain actual audio. Instead, data contained in the MIDI File is sent through a MIDI cable to a receiving device like a MERISH MIDI Player or apps like Windows Media Player and Quicktime. MIDI File players/keyboards are also made by Roland, Yamaha and CASIO.

Sheet Music can be printed when the MIDI File is open in a notation program. All good sequencing programs will print music. The most popular are Sibelius, Logic Pro, Cubase and Sonar among others.

FREE MIDI Files vs PROFESSIONAL MIDI FILES

Free MIDI Files are almost always unauthorised (pirated) copies of the professional versions and/or, generally very poor quality. Professional MIDI File backing tracks are produced by musicians who carefully recreate the various instruments in a song, add lyrics and melody guide then mix the tracks so they load and play on your devices.

CONVERT A MIDI FILE TO A MP3 OR WAV FILE

The apps and programs listed above will convert a MIDI File to many formats, including a WAV file and MP3 file. When converting to MP3, always save at 320kbps and CBR (Constant Bit Rate) to preserve best quality.

WHERE TO FIND MIDI FILES

We recommend using only professional MIDI Files. Prices range from $5 to $20 for a catalogue title and $150 to $450 for a custom made MIDI Files.

WHY PAY FOR A MIDI FILE?

How much is your time worth? For $5 or so, download a fully produced song and start learning it right away or, download a poor quality version for free and spend hours or days trying to fix it. Imagine going through that process for 50 songs! From experience I can say spending between $5 and $10 on a professional MIDI File is money well spent. Here's some MIDI sites we can recommend:

1. Hit Trax MIDI Files - Over 30,000 MIDI Files (best value)
2. Song Galaxy MIDI - good selection
3. Ron Fry MIDI - smaller selection

The Most Popular DAW Programs Review

A VERY BRIEF HISTORY OF DIGITAL AUDIO WORKSTATIONS

DAW's are programs to create music and especially MIDI Files. DAW's began in the 1990's with programs like Notator (Atari), Cakewalk, MasterTracks Pro and Cubase (Windows) and Performer (MAC). These were the first programs that freed music creators from the shackles of tiny screens on synthesiser keyboards. The advanced editing features in these programs greatly influenced future music production. This influence continues to this day.

FREE DAW'S vs PROFESSIONAL (PAID) DAW's

Aside from entry level DAW Garage Band (MAC), I suggest experimenting with a some trial versions and FREE DAW's but beware - anything 'Free' usually has limitations and 'limitations' is the enemy of creative people. Creating MIDI Files requires solid programs that have specific features. Try it then buy it.

SOME RECOMMENDED DAW APPS

Here's my list of popular apps used by music creators. All are proven winners. which is best? Try then buy and be prepared to switch to another app if your first choice doesn't work out.

Logic Pro X (MAC): Flagship APP by MAC. One of if not the best app to create professional MIDI Files. Not available for PC.

SONAR by Roland: Evolved from the popular Cakewalk program. The people at Roland built SONAR into a rock solid MIDI Files and audio creation program that is solid & highly respected. PC only.

CUBASE by Steinberg. PC & MAC. Solid and respected DAW still going strong. Cubase is along the lines of Logic.

REAPER by Cockos: Excellent value with some limitations - more of an Audio recorder than MIDI so test it first.

DIGITAL PERFORMER by MOTU: Now available for MAC & PC. Not as revered as the top end but worth a look. You will most probably veer towards Logic, Sonar or Cubase before investing in DP.

Pro Tools by AVID: PC and MAC. You either love it or hate it. Gaining popularity in the audio world but MIDI capability/editing needs improvement. Recommended for serious audio recording however MIDI File creators may be frustrated at the lack of features.

USEFUL ADVICE

Decide the genres of music you want to produce. This really is the first step. Find friends that use DAW's and ask their opinion. Talk to friendly sales people in good music stores - they often have first hand experience using several DAW's. Next up, get onto YouTube and learn from people using these apps in the real world. Read reviews and educate yourself. Use trial versions wherever possible. DAW's are like a car. Some are easier to drive than others.