Video: Module 1 MIDI Music Composition
1. Introduction to Music Composition Software
Designed to create music scores for printing (sheet music) or output to MIDI instruments.
Popular software examples: Finale, Lime (open source).
2. Initial Composition Setup
Specification Process:
Specify an ensemble.
Choose a document style.
Select instruments (e.g., baritone horn, acoustic bass, percussion).
Enter a title for the composition.
Choose a time signature (e.g., common time).
Select the key signature.
Automatic Adjustments:
Software automatically adjusts key signature based on instrument (e.g., a B-flat baritone horn needs three sharps to match the key of an acoustic bass).
Once specified, the software displays ready-to-enter sheet music.
3. Entering Notes
Methods for Note Entry:
Clicking on the Staff:
Select the note type (e.g., quarter note, half note).
Click to position the note on the staff.
Can enter additional single notes.
Can create chords by adding multiple notes: begin with the first note, then position subsequent notes.
Playing MIDI Instruments:
Connect a MIDI instrument (e.g., piano) to the computer and play notes.
Using an On-screen Keyboard:
Select the desired note type.
Click notes on the on-screen keyboard.
Notes automatically appear on the staff as they are played.
4. Editing and Finalizing the Composition
Review and Edit:
Listen to the composition.
Add or delete notes at any time.
Add lyrics that correspond to various notes.
5. Output Options
Printing: Print the complete composition as sheet music.
Exporting: Output music to various file formats:
MIDI
MP3
Other music file formats