Originally Posted by jonel
It would seem that there is some inconstancy in the way BB treats midi when using the Open Special > Open Midi File and how BB deals with drooping the same midi file onto BB.
There are several ways to open/import MIDI and there definitely are differences. Some of those differences depend upon how you reached the open/import stage. Those differences may also depend upon the MIDI file type.

The first two are the ones Henry uses, I believe.

File->Open Special->Open MIDI File Appears to import all MIDI data onto the Melody track, but analyses and inserts what it believes are suitable chord symbols.

Drag & Drop MIDI Separates out the MIDI channels and puts them into individual utility tracks in BiaB. Chords not analysed.


There are also the following with preset default actions.

File->Import->Import Melody from MIFI File Opens the track filter and defaults all tracks to BiaB's Melody track. The destinations can be changed. Chords not analysed.

File->Import->Import to soloist part from MIDI file Opens the track filter and defaults all tracks to BiaB's Soloist track. The destinations can be changed. Chords not analysed.

Melody->Edit Melody Track->Import Melody from MIDI file Same as File->Import

Soloist->Edit Melody Track->Import to Soloist from MIDI file Same as File->Import


There is also a selection of File->Import->Import chods from...
 options, the third of which seems to do much the same as the File->Open Special->Open MIDI File, also importing all of the tracks into Melody.

Most of those appear to me to make odd assumptions about which MIDI channel should go where and what patches to use. Probably there's some logic, but I lost patience.

I think Henry uses the File->Open special to analyse the chords, but then ignores the aggregated melody track. He then uses drag & drop as the easiest way to get the tracks separated out into a series of utility tracks where thay can be individually managed.

All those variations realy just show how features have been added with only modest regard for regularity and consistency.

Jazz relative beginner, starting at a much older age than was helpful.
AVL:MXE Linux; Windows 11
BIAB2025 Audiophile, a bunch of other software.
Kawai MP6, Ui24R, Focusrite Saffire Pro40 and Scarletts
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