While reading the article "The MIDI-Digital Audio Shuffle", it occurred to me that I know very little about what MIDI's true function. I think it is interesting that it is a set of functions, not sound like I had assumed. The author mentions that this could be used in an orchestration class, a possibility that I did not know existed.
Another possible use mentioned was transposing parts for different singers. I agree that it is a useful tool, and probably good for practice. However, just like our conversation about using notation software for accompaniment parts, this technique should be used only in certain situations. I think the author was correct to distinguish MIDI as a different type of tool as digital audio. As for my own personal use, I will tend to favor musicians over technology whenever possible.
The links available on Bb were very useful, especially the "Abridged Guide". These types of references are great for educators looking to incorporate MIDI into their classrooms. I think MIDI can be used to teach a variety of things, just like the Vermont MIDI project demonstrates. Composition is a tough standard for many educators to full address, but MIDI can make the process easier.
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I think the best thing about MIDI is its size! I've had full length productions of 8 or 10 minute pieces sent to me as MIDI audio that could have only been sent to be that way as digital audio would've made the files ten times larger.
ReplyDeleteMIDI seems like it would be great for students to experiment with- take a barebones MIDI file and allow (albeit more advanced) students to go in and actually edit the values to create their own "arrangements."
ReplyDeleteHopefully you will leave this class with additional knowledge and experience with MIDI that you may apply to your teaching in whatever way you feel appropriate. I agree that human musicians are preferred for sound, but at least the MIDI sounds and sensitivity have continued to improve over the years. It will be interesting to see how this technology continues to develop.
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