Advanced Applications
Computer Sequencers
6-3
MIDI Hookup
The Þrst step in using your Stage Piano with a sequencer is getting the MIDI
connections happening. Few sound cards have MIDI ports built-in (the connectors are
too big) so youÕll probably have to use an adapter cable that plugs into the cardÕs
ÒgameÓ or ÒjoystickÓ port. Check the sound cardÕs manual for information on making
MIDI connections. If the computer lacks a sound card or the one present has no way to
access MIDI, you can buy a dedicated MIDI interface.
After obtaining MIDI connectors for your computer, youÕll need two MIDI cables to
connect to your Stage Piano. Refer to page 2-6 for a drawing showing exactly how to
make the connections. Be sure to read the labels on the ports when connecting!
Local Control Off and Patch Thru On
Once MIDI connections are made, youÕll need to get your sequencer and Stage Piano
talking to each other correctly. First you need to break the internal signal path between
the player controls (keyboard, pedals, etc.) and the internal sound module. You do this
by setting the Local parameter to
Off
(itÕs one of the global parameters). See page 5-1
for instructions if you need help changing the global parameters. Note that after you
do this, the sounds will not play unless your computer is on, connected, and the
sequencer program is runningÑso you may wish to leave the change temporary.
Next you need to conÞgure your sequencer to combine messages received at the
computerÕs MIDI In port with those it creates and send all to the computerÕs MIDI Out
port. This function is often called
Patch Through
or
Soft Thru
, or perhaps
Merge
or
something similar. After being set correctly, you will be able to play on the keyboard
and hear the internal sound module again.
Quick summary: If you hear nothing, the sequencerÕs patch through function hasnÕt
been set to
On
. If you hear double notes or a different timbre each time you strike a
note, the Stage PianoÕs Local parameter has not been set to
Off
.
Basic Sequencer Operations
ThereÕs insufÞcient space to describe fully what you can do with a sequencer and your
stage piano but the following should give you an idea.
Most fundamental is ÒrecordingÓ a performance and later Òplaying it back.Ó However,
since it is
MIDI messages
that are being recorded rather than the sound itself, you can
modify the recording or
sequence
in ways impossible with a sound recording. Here are
just a few of the possibilities:
ReÞne the sequence by editing out mistakes
Record while playing slowly then play back at normal speed
Perform a duet by recording the Þrst part then playing the second part while the
sequencer replays the Þrst part
Re-record the duet. Most sequencers can play and record simultaneously
Similarly, build up a song part by part
Using the computerÕs sound card or an external sound module, build up a song that
plays several instruments at once.
