Although Midi started as a system for real-time transmission of musical events, it can also be used to capture an entire musical performance or arrangement in a file.

The Standard Midi File (SMF) format is part of the Midi Specification and describes exactly how the Midi events and timing information need to be organized within the file.  Midi files usually have a MID filename extension.

Midi files have become the standard format of exchange between music software and hardware, and thousands are available for download on the internet.

Midi File Formats

There are two common Midi file formats in use.  The difference is one of internal file organization and makes no difference to the sound of the file when played.

Format 0 (also known as SMF0) mixes all channel notes and controllers together in a single stream within the file.  Musical events for different channels can still be separated from each other, because the channel number is included with every event.

Format 1 (also known as SMF1) can separate events into two or more streams called tracks.  This is an advantage for preserving musical structure during transfer, since Midi files may include special events, such as comments and lyrics, which are cannot otherwise be assigned to a particular channel.

Importing Midi Files

Songtrix has a comprehensive step-by-step process for importing Midi files into the workspace.

You can select and merge the tracks you want to import, and have the music analyzed to extract the chords, which Midi files do not normally provide.

Exporting Midi Files

You can also export your song to a Midi file for use somewhere else.  This might be into audio production software so that you can add audio effects, vocals and acoustic instruments to the final mix.

Songtrix offers a variety of options for exporting Midi files, including the format (SMF0 or SMF1) and the controllers to be used for master volume.