Dive into the world of Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) with our comprehensive 2-hour workshop designed for musicians, producers, and enthusiasts eager to unlock the full potential of MIDI in music production. This workshop focuses on using MIDI in conjunction with Ableton Live, a powerhouse in the digital audio workstation (DAW) realm, renowned for its intuitive workflow and flexibility. Whether you’re new to music production or looking to deepen your understanding of MIDI and its applications, this workshop is tailored to demystify MIDI and show you how to harness its capabilities to enhance your creative workflow.

Workshop Overview

Our Introduction to MIDI workshop is structured to provide a solid foundation in MIDI technology, from its history and development to its modern-day applications in music production and live performance. Using Ableton Live as our primary platform, we’ll explore how MIDI can be used to control virtual instruments, sequence music, and manipulate audio in real-time.

Workshop Syllabus

Understanding MIDI

• Introduction to MIDI: Dive into the history of MIDI and its importance in modern music production. Understand the basic concepts and terminology associated with MIDI.
• MIDI in Ableton Live: Overview of how MIDI is implemented in Ableton Live, including setting up MIDI preferences, connecting MIDI devices, and navigating the MIDI interface.

MIDI Sequencing and Composition

• Creating MIDI Tracks: Learn how to create and configure MIDI tracks in Ableton Live. Understand the process of recording MIDI data from a keyboard or other controllers.
• Programming and Editing MIDI: Explore MIDI editing features in Ableton Live, such as quantization, note editing, and velocity adjustments. Discover creative sequencing techniques for composition.

Virtual Instruments and Sound Design

• Exploring Ableton’s Instrument Rack: Get hands-on with Ableton Live’s vast array of virtual instruments and sounds. Learn how to select, play, and customize instruments using MIDI.
• Sound Design with MIDI: Introduction to basic sound design principles using MIDI and virtual synthesizers. Understand how MIDI can be used to manipulate sound parameters dynamically.

MIDI Mapping and Live Performance

• MIDI Mapping in Ableton Live: Learn the essentials of MIDI mapping in Ableton Live, allowing you to control the software with physical knobs, faders, and buttons.
• Using MIDI for Live Performance: Explore strategies for using MIDI in live performances, including setting up live sets, triggering clips, and incorporating MIDI controllers for a dynamic live show.

Learning Takeaways

• Foundational MIDI Knowledge: Obtain a comprehensive understanding of MIDI, its history, and its role in digital music production.
• Ableton Live Skills: Gain proficiency in using Ableton Live for MIDI sequencing, composition, and sound design.
• Creative Expression: Unlock new possibilities for creativity by learning how to use MIDI to control virtual instruments and manipulate sounds.
• Workflow Efficiency: Develop an efficient workflow that leverages MIDI for quicker and more intuitive music production.
• Performance Readiness: Equip yourself with the knowledge to incorporate MIDI into your live performances, enhancing your stage presence and audience engagement.

This workshop is an excellent opportunity for anyone looking to understand and apply MIDI in their music creation process. By the end of the session, participants will not only grasp the theoretical aspects of MIDI but also gain practical experience in using MIDI within Ableton Live to create, edit, and perform music. Whether you’re composing in the studio or performing on stage, the skills acquired in this workshop will open new avenues for musical exploration and creativity.

Join us for this 2-hour journey into the world of MIDI with Ableton Live, and take your first step towards mastering the digital tools that will elevate your music production to new heights.