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If the sequencer allows multi-tracking, each vocal section’s part may be recorded on a
different track, and then played back individually, or in any combination, for more
flexibility. Multi-tracking can also be used in teaching and learning new organ works.
The teacher may record each hand or pedal part on a different track, allowing the student
to "mute" or turn off any part being practiced while still being able to hear the sequencer
play the rest of the composition. The student’s ability to hear the piece in its entirety
from the earliest stage of learning a composition, and to become aware of the
interrelationship of its voices, is especially valuable in learning contrapuntal works.
MIDI as a Registration Tool
In some churches and auditoriums it is difficult to judge the effectiveness of a registration
from the organ console. Due to the acoustics of the room, or positioning of the console,
the sound of the instrument may be different when listened to from the congregation’s or
audience’s vantage point. MIDI allows the organist to evaluate registrations by recording
the music using a sequencer, and then listening from different locations in the room
during the music’s playback.
Other MIDI Uses
MIDI has created new possibilities for the organist. The ability of the organ console to
control external keyboards or sound modules puts an ever-increasing array of non-
traditional sounds at the organist’s fingertips. A superior degree of control is made
possible by the flexibility of an organ console. The ability to record MIDI data using a
sequencer opens a variety of new possibilities during practice and performance situations.
Computer software programs are also available that allow musicians to play MIDI
devices connected to a computer, and have their performance printed as conventional
five-line musical notation. Because MIDI is an industry-wide standard, today’s MIDI
instruments will be compatible with tomorrow’s MIDI innovations.
2. Allen’s Exclusive MIDI System
Allen Organs feature an advanced MIDI system with increased flexibility. This system
provides a comprehensive interface between MIDI sound modules, such as the Allen
Ensemble™, and digital sequencers such as the Allen MIDI Assistant™. Two MIDI Out
ports, one switched and one unswitched, allow unprecedented control over external MIDI
devices attached to the organ.
