Lesson Overview
Introduction to MIDI, Instruments and Recording MIDI Parts
Logic Pro X is fantastic for MIDI; from recording, editing, to being able to make sounds seem authentic in their own right. Using software instruments, it’s pretty easy to get sounds coming from your DAW – but the fun and sometimes challenging part is using the appropriate tools to edit & manipulate the audio & data you get using MIDI.
Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) was developed in the 1980s and allows electronic instruments and devices to communicate with each other. This information is merely data and cannot be heard but can be interpreted by DAWs and used through plugins & MIDI devices to create audio.
Setting Up a MIDI Track in Logic Pro X
In Logic Pro X go to Tracks in your Top Bar, Press New Tracks and select Software Instrument. The default Instrument is Classic Electric Piano.
Choose an instrument and sound that you’re happy with.
Once you’re happy with the Sound, go to your Transport, right click the Musical Note/Metronome and select Custom.
This will show you the full Transport bar so you’re able to get information on MIDI In and MIDI Out data.
When you press a note on your MIDI Keyboard, that’ll show up on the MIDI IN Section of the Custom Transport bar. It’ll show you the note you’re playing, EG. C3 and also the Velocity, EG. 116
To Quick Record:
Ensure the ‘R’ on the track is enabled and RED. Then press ‘R’ on your keyboard. You’ll hear the metronome then see the play head roll across the screen – At this point you’re able to play your part into Logic Pro X through your MIDI Instrument.
