5 Essential Midi Arrange Tips before 2017

In the realm of music production, crafting a MIDI arrangement of a song can be a transformative experience, unlocking a world of creative possibilities. Before 2017, musicians relied on meticulous manual processes to create MIDI arrangements, a task that required an intimate understanding of musical theory and hours of painstaking work. This arduous process often hindered the seamless incorporation of MIDI into the production workflow, leaving many aspiring artists with limited options for enhancing their tracks.

The advent of advanced music technology in 2017 marked a pivotal moment in the realm of MIDI arrangements. Cutting-edge software solutions emerged, empowering musicians with automated tools that streamlined the arrangement process. These advancements not only saved countless hours of manual labor but also opened up new avenues for musical exploration. With the ability to effortlessly create, edit, and manipulate MIDI notes, musicians gained unprecedented control over their compositions. The time-consuming task of manualmente transcribing notes into MIDI became a thing of the past, freeing up creators to focus on the creative aspects of their music.

The introduction of these automated MIDI tools in 2017 not only accelerated the arrangement process but also fostered a wave of innovation within the music industry. Producers and songwriters alike embraced the newfound ease of incorporating MIDI into their workflows. This technological shift paved the way for the rise of new genres and sub-genres, as musicians experimented with previously unexplored sonic territories. The seamless integration of MIDI into the production process allowed for intricate layering, complex rhythmic patterns, and the seamless blending of electronic and acoustic elements. As the technology continues to evolve, the possibilities for MIDI arrangements are boundless, promising an exciting future for music creation.

Identifying the Song’s Structure

The first step in arranging a MIDI song is identifying its structure. This involves breaking the song down into its constituent parts, such as the intro, verse, chorus, bridge, and outro. Once you have a clear understanding of the song’s structure, you can begin to create MIDI arrangements that follow the original song’s form.

There are a number of different ways to identify the song’s structure. One common approach is to listen to the song and note down the different sections as they occur. You can also use music theory to help you identify the song’s structure. For example, the verse is typically the first section of a song and is often followed by the chorus. The bridge is a contrasting section that typically occurs in the middle of the song. The outro is the final section of a song and often brings the song to a close.

The following table provides a summary of the common song structures:

Section	Description
Intro	The intro is the opening section of the song and often sets the mood and tone for the rest of the song.
Verse	The verse is the main section of the song and typically contains the lyrics.
Chorus	The chorus is a repeated section of the song that is typically the most memorable part of the song.
Bridge	The bridge is a contrasting section of the song that typically occurs in the middle of the song.
Outro	The outro is the final section of the song and often brings the song to a close.

Creating a Chord Progression

A chord progression is a sequence of chords that creates a sense of harmonic movement and progression in a song. When creating a chord progression, it’s important to consider the following elements:

Root note: The root note is the fundamental note of a chord, and it determines the overall sound and character of the chord.
Chord quality: The chord quality refers to the specific combination of notes that make up the chord, such as major, minor, diminished, or augmented.
Inversion: An inversion is a variation of a chord where the root note is not the lowest note in the chord.

To create a chord progression, start by choosing a root note and a chord quality. Then, you can experiment with different inversions and add additional notes to create a richer harmonic sound. For example, a simple I-IV-V chord progression in the key of C major would consist of the following chords:

Chord	Root note	Chord quality	Inversion
Cmaj7	C	Major 7th	Root position
Fmaj7	F	Major 7th	Root position
Gmaj7	G	Major 7th	Root position

Once you have a basic chord progression, you can start to add variations and embellishments. For example, you could add passing chords, secondary dominants, or modulations to create a more complex and interesting harmonic structure.

Establishing a Bassline

Creating a solid bassline is crucial in MIDI arrangement, providing the foundation for the rest of the track. Here’s a detailed guide to establish an effective bassline:

1. Choose a Bass Instrument

Select a bass instrument that complements the overall sound of the track. Common choices include acoustic bass, electric bass, or synthesizer bass.

2. Define the Root Notes

Determine the root notes of the chords in the song and use them as the basis for your bassline. This will ensure a harmonious relationship between the bassline and the melody.

3.Develop Rhythmic Patterns

Create rhythmic patterns for the bassline that provide support and groove to the track. Consider the following techniques:

Technique	Explanation
Quarter Note Movement	Steady, even bassline moving on every beat.
Syncopated Notes	Notes played on off-beats, creating a sense of groove and forward motion.
Walking Bassline	A melodic bassline that moves stepwise, often outlining the chord changes.
Arpeggiated Patterns	Bassline plays the notes of a chord in sequence.

Experiment with different patterns and find what works best for your track.

Layering Drums and Percussion

Layering drums and percussion is a powerful way to add complexity and interest to a MIDI arrangement. By combining different drum sounds, you can create a wide range of grooves and rhythms.

Types of Drums and Percussion

There are many different types of drums and percussion instruments that you can use in your MIDI arrangements. Some of the most common include:

Bass drum
Snare drum
Tom-toms
Cymbals
Hi-hats

Layering Techniques

There are a number of different techniques that you can use to layer drums and percussion. Here are a few tips:

Start with a foundation. Lay down the basic drum and percussion patterns that will provide the foundation for your arrangement.
Add layers gradually. Start by adding a few layers of drums and percussion, and then gradually add more layers until you’ve achieved the desired sound.
Experiment with different sounds. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different drum and percussion sounds. There are no rules when it comes to layering, so feel free to mix and match different sounds until you find something that you like.
Use velocity and dynamics. Velocity and dynamics can be used to add expression and variation to your drum and percussion layers. Experiment with different velocity and dynamic settings to create more realistic and interesting grooves.

Example Drum Layering

Layer 1	Layer 2	Layer 3
Bass drum	Snare drum	Hi-hats
Kick drum	Tom-toms	Cymbals
Shaker	Cowbell	Tambourine

This is just one example of how you can layer drums and percussion. There are endless possibilities, so experiment until you find the sounds that you like.

Adding Melody and Harmony

Once you have a basic MIDI arrangement, you can start adding melody and harmony. Here are a few tips:

1. Start with a simple melody

Your melody should be easy to sing and remember. Try to use simple intervals, such as major and minor thirds, and avoid using too many leaps.

2. Add harmony to your melody

Harmony is the combination of two or more notes played together. You can add harmony to your melody by using chords or by doubling the melody at different intervals.

3. Experiment with different voicings

The voicing of a chord is the arrangement of the notes in the chord. You can experiment with different voicings to create different sounds.

4. Use dynamics and articulation

Dynamics and articulation can add expression to your MIDI arrangement. Dynamics refer to the volume of the notes, while articulation refers to the way the notes are played, such as legato or staccato.

5. Consider the overall balance of your arrangement

When adding melody and harmony, it is important to consider the overall balance of your arrangement. You don’t want one element to overpower the others. Here is a table with some tips for balancing your arrangement:

Element	Tips
Melody	Should be the most prominent element
Harmony	Should support the melody
Rhythm	Should provide a foundation for the melody and harmony
Dynamics	Can be used to create contrast and interest
Articulation	Can be used to add expression and character

Utilizing Arpeggiators and Sequencers

Arpeggiators

Arpeggiators automatically play the notes of a chord, one at a time, in a specified sequence. They add movement and interest to melodies and chord progressions. To use arpeggiators in a MIDI arrangement, insert an arpeggiator MIDI effect onto the track containing the chords. Adjust the settings to control the playback rate, arpeggiation pattern, and velocity (volume) of each note.

Sequencers

Sequencers record and playback MIDI data, allowing you to create complex patterns and rhythms. To use sequencers in a MIDI arrangement, create a new sequencer track and program the MIDI notes you want to play. You can use the piano roll editor or other MIDI editing tools to draw in notes, create melodies, and add effects. Sequencers are also useful for automating playback parameters such as volume, panning, and filter cutoff.

Arpeggiator	Sequencer
Plays notes of a chord in sequence	Records and plays MIDI data
Adds movement and interest	Creates complex patterns and rhythms
Ajustable playback rate, pattern, and velocity	Automates playback parameters (volume, panning, etc.)

Step-by-Step Guide to Using Arpeggiators and Sequencers

1. Create a MIDI track for the chords or melody you want to arpeggiate or sequence.
2. Insert an arpeggiator or sequencer MIDI effect onto the track.
3. Adjust the arpeggiator settings (rate, pattern, velocity) or program MIDI notes into the sequencer.
4. Use the piano roll editor or other MIDI editing tools to fine-tune the timing and velocities of the notes.
5. Add additional effects (e.g., reverb, delay) to enhance the sound of the arpeggiated or sequenced part.
6. Automate the arpeggiator or sequencer parameters (e.g., rate, volume, panning) over time to create dynamic and evolving parts.

Applying Sound Effects and Automation

Once you have your MIDI arrangement in place, you can start to add sound effects and automation to bring your song to life. Sound effects can add depth and atmosphere to your track, while automation can help create movement and dynamics.

Sound Effects

There are a wide variety of sound effects available, from subtle reverbs and delays to more dramatic effects like distortion and bitcrushing.

To apply a sound effect, simply drag and drop it onto the MIDI track you want to affect. You can then adjust the parameters of the effect to get the desired sound.

Automation

Automation allows you to control the parameters of a sound effect or MIDI instrument over time. This can be used to create a variety of effects, from simple volume swells to complex modulations.

To create automation, simply click on the “Automation” button in the toolbar and select the parameter you want to automate. You can then draw in the automation curve using the mouse.

Here are some tips for using sound effects and automation:

Tip	Description
Start with subtle effects.	It’s easy to overdo it with sound effects and automation. Start with small changes and gradually increase the intensity until you get the desired result.
Use automation to create movement and dynamics.	Automation can be used to create a variety of interesting effects, from simple volume swells to complex modulations. Experiment with different automation curves to see what you can create.
Use sound effects to add depth and atmosphere.	Sound effects can add depth and atmosphere to your track. Experiment with different sound effects to find the ones that best fit your song.

Manipulating Tempo and Dynamics

In addition to pitch and rhythm, tempo and dynamics play a crucial role in shaping the emotional impact of a song. With MIDI, you have complete control over these elements, allowing you to introduce subtle nuances and create dynamic arrangements.

Controlling Tempo

MIDI allows you to precisely adjust the tempo of the entire song or specific sections. You can use the following features to manipulate tempo:

Tempo Map: Creates a tempo track that defines the tempo changes throughout the song.

Tempo Tool: Adjusts the tempo of specific notes or sections within the MIDI file.

Controlling Dynamics

MIDI also provides tools for controlling the volume and expression of notes. This allows you to create a sense of ebb and flow, adding depth and interest to your arrangement:

Volume Control: Sets the volume of individual notes or groups of notes.

Expression Control: Modulates the volume, pitch, or timbre of notes based on the intensity of your MIDI keyboard performance or MIDI controller data.

When manipulating tempo and dynamics, consider the following tips:

Effective Tempo Transitions:

Tip	Description
Use gradual tempo changes.	Avoid abrupt tempo shifts that can disrupt the flow of the song.
Emphasize key sections.	Speed up or slow down for verses, choruses, or bridges to highlight their importance.
Create tempo anticipation.	Gradually increase or decrease the tempo leading up to specific events for dramatic impact.

Dynamic Range:

Tip	Description
Use a wide dynamic range.	Create contrast by alternating between soft and loud sections to keep the listener engaged.
Pay attention to the dynamics of individual instruments.	Adjust volume and expression based on the sound of the instrument and its role in the arrangement.
Consider the impact of dynamics on the overall mix.	Ensure that the dynamics do not overwhelm or overshadow other elements of the arrangement.

Incorporating Synthesizer Patches

Selecting the Right Patches

Start by identifying the specific instruments or sounds you want to incorporate. Browse through your synthesizer’s patch library to find presets that match your musical vision. Consider using the built-in search function to narrow down the options.

Layering Patches

To create a richer and more complex sound, try layering multiple synthesizer patches. Experiment with combining different patches to achieve unique sonic effects. For example, you could layer a bass patch with a pad patch to add depth and warmth to your bassline.

Modulating Parameters

Once you’ve selected your patches, you can use the synthesizer’s modulation capabilities to create dynamic and expressive performances. Assign modulation sources (such as the velocity of the keystrokes or a control knob) to modulation destinations (such as the filter cutoff frequency or the pitch).

Creating Custom Patches

If you can’t find a patch that perfectly suits your needs, you can create your own custom patches. Most synthesizers allow you to edit the patch parameters (such as the oscillator waveforms, filter settings, and envelope shapes) to customize the sound.

Using Effects

Enhance the sound of your synthesizer patches by incorporating effects such as reverb, delay, chorus, and distortion. These effects can add depth, space, and texture to your music. Experiment with different effect combinations to find the perfect balance.

Working with Arpeggiators

Arpeggiators can create intricate melodic patterns based on the notes you play. Use arpeggiators to add movement and interest to your synthesizer parts. Experiment with different arpeggio modes (such as up, down, or random) to create unique effects.

Programming Sequencer Patterns

Use the synthesizer’s sequencer to create complex rhythmic patterns. Experiment with different note lengths, velocities, and patterns to generate dynamic and engaging grooves. You can also use the sequencer to control other aspects of the synthesizer, such as the filter cutoff frequency or the modulation depth.

Table of Common Synthesizer Patch Types

Patch Type	Description
Bass	Synthesizer patches designed to produce bass sounds, typically with a low frequency range.
Lead	Synthesizer patches designed for soloing or playing lead melodies. They often feature a higher frequency range and brighter tones.
Pad	Synthesizer patches that provide a soft, ambient, or atmospheric sound. They are often used for backgrounds or to create a sense of atmosphere.
Percussion	Synthesizer patches that emulate the sounds of percussion instruments, such as drums, cymbals, and shakers.

Exporting the MIDI Arrangement

Once you have completed your MIDI arrangement, you will need to export it so that you can share it with others or use it in other projects. Here are the steps on how to export a MIDI arrangement:

In your DAW, go to the File menu and select Export.
In the Export window, select MIDI as the file type.
Choose a location to save the file and give it a name.
Click the Export button.

The exported MIDI file will contain all of the MIDI data from your arrangement, including the notes, chords, and effects. You can then import this file into another DAW or use it to create a backing track or accompaniment.

MIDI Export Settings

When you export a MIDI file, there are several settings that you can adjust to control the quality and compatibility of the file. Here is a table that describes the most common MIDI export settings:

Setting	Description
MIDI Format	Specifies the MIDI file format. Type 0 is the most common and is supported by most DAWs.
Resolution	Specifies the number of MIDI ticks per quarter note. A higher resolution will result in a more accurate representation of your arrangement, but will also increase the file size.
Quantization	Specifies whether or not the MIDI data should be quantized. Quantization will adjust the timing of the notes so that they fall on even beats.
Transpose	Specifies the number of semitones by which the MIDI data should be transposed. This can be useful for adjusting the pitch of your arrangement.
Include Tempo Map	Specifies whether or not the MIDI file should include a tempo map. A tempo map will allow other DAWs to import your arrangement with the correct tempo.
Include Program Changes	Specifies whether or not the MIDI file should include program changes. Program changes tell other DAWs which instruments should be used to play the MIDI data.

How to Make a MIDI Arrangement of a Song Before 2017

Before 2017, making a MIDI arrangement of a song required a dedicated MIDI sequencer. These hardware or software devices allowed you to record and edit MIDI data, which could then be played back by a MIDI synthesizer. The process of creating a MIDI arrangement was typically time-consuming and required a significant amount of technical expertise.

However, with the advent of modern digital audio workstations (DAWs), it is now possible to create MIDI arrangements with relative ease. DAWs provide a graphical user interface that allows you to drag and drop MIDI data, as well as edit it in a variety of ways. This makes the process of creating a MIDI arrangement much more accessible and user-friendly.