Originally Posted By: JohnJohnJohn

Thanks Mario! Is there a basic guide online you would recommend?


That is a loaded question. There is a basic MIDI CC chart you can use as a starter:

https://nickfever.com/music/midi-cc-list

As you can see some CCs are dedicated while others are open so each software program can use them as they see fit. Thus there are no basic guide lines other than the CC list.

Mapping an instrument's nuance can be challenging. For example a quick pitch bend up can be very effective on a sax or trumpet but not so much on an analog synth; it may want a slow long pitch bend. Also it may sound terrible using a pitch bend on a piano or organ!

Fortunately most newer softsynths have the nuances programmed in them via key switches; that is a MIDI note that is not in the range of the instrument. For example a violin patch could have key switches for various trills, legato, and such. Usually the more expensive the software the more key switches there are available.

I hope this isn't confusing.

{edit} PS there are a number of MIDI books available. I have these two:

https://www.amazon.com/Arranging-Techniques-Synthesists-Eric-Turkel/dp/082561130X

https://www.amazon.com/Acoustic-MIDI-Orchestration-Contemporary-Composer/dp/0240520211

There are also a number of other books out there that are helpful.

Last edited by MarioD; 12/04/20 04:16 PM.
I get most of my exercise these days from shaking my head in disbelief.


64 bit Win 10 Pro, the latest BiaB/RB, Roland Octa-Capture audio interface, a ton of software/hardware