To: "VOCALIST" <vocalist>
Subject: RE: MIDI
Date sent: Tue, 18 Jan 2000 18:42:32 -0800
Send reply to: VOCALIST <vocalist>

> what does all this MIDI and synthesizers and hookups do?? do you
> compose on the computer or something? I really want to learn
> more about MIDIs but I have no clue...

MIDI is a format that allows musical sounds to be stored digitally (e.g., so
that a computer can understand something that you play on an electronic
keyboard, providing it's hooked up properly, which is where the cables come
in).

I use my synthesizer (an electronic keyboard with lots of extra built in
sounds) to enter music into a notation program (I use Finale) which
translates the notes I play into sheet music. I can also have the music
notation program play back sheet music, which I really like because my piano
skills aren't good enough to play most accompaniments at tempo and it helps
me to learn what the accompaniment is supposed to sound like when I don't
have access to a pianist. I also use my music notation program to transpose
songs, and I can have it played back in various keys until I find the one
that fits my voice best.

I know several composers who use similar technology, although for different
reasons :o).

Jennifer, who absolutely loves any technology that makes life easier