The following thoughts could be in your mind:
Let us guess.... you're reading this article because you have an interest in computer music. However, you are unsure of where to start or what to buy.
The following thoughts could be in your mind:
1) I'm not trained in music. How can I get started?
2) I can play a musical instrument. But I know nuts about computers.
Don't fret! Let us assure you that your doubts and fears are unfounded.
Desktop music is pretty easy to pick up, fun to learn and offers you
many possibilities.
The Potential of Desktop Music
Are you aware that it is possible to produce an entire song, drums
and all, on your PC? Or that you can play music on an electronic
piano and then generate the score of what you have played? Or
play a song using your favorite instrument from a sound card?
Whether you are a novice or a trained muscian, these are just some of the benefits which Computer or Desktop Music offers you.
What do I need?
At least a 486 PC (which you probably already have), a
good sound system, a MIDI keyboard and a Sound Blaster AWE32!
The Sound Blaster AWE32 is a fantastic home music studio package and comes
bundled with a MIDI adaptor cable and the necessary music
software to get you started in desktop music.
In short, the Sound Blaster AWE32 is a synthesis module, a mixer, a sampler, a digital effects processor and a multi-track sequencer all rolled into one!
Oh, oh! I'm not a Computer Freak!
Fear not, classical musician. The computer won't eat you up. If
you can read instructions, you'll be surprised how easy it is
to install a sound card and connect it to your MIDI keyboard
(or digital piano or other MIDI instrument).
If however you prefer someone more qualified to help you, get a computer
wiz or your dealer to do it for you.
Once you have your home studio up and running, you can refer to Creative Zone's Music Pub for information on desktop music!
Ooops! I can't play the Keyboard that well!
Music enthusiasts will be glad to know that you don't have to
be a professional or fully trained musician to enter the world
of desktop music. Cheer up! The information found here, in the AWE32
Home Music School, is designed for you, providing step-by-step
instructions on how you can get started even without formal training
in music. We will also be providing tips on music theory.
Okay, I'm convinced.
Fine. First, you have to understand some important
concepts in Computer Music especially MIDI which stands for Musical
Instrument Digital Interface. MIDI music is completely different
from the music you hear from the CD or radio.
What's the difference between CD-Audio and a MIDI song?
As we all know, CD-Audio produces high quality sound.
Whether CD Audio is produced by a popular or unknown label,
the playback quality of a song sounds very much the same on different
CD-players.
The playback quality of a MIDI song, on the contrary, may vary
on different MIDI instruments.
Why? Simply because MIDI songs (created by
MIDI compatible instruments) do not play back music notes but rather,
messages containing the timings, instrument designations, volume settings,
the melody and the accompaniment of the song. The end result of a MIDI
song produced depends very much on the playback quality
of the MIDI instrument. This explains why the same MIDI song
sounds different when played on different MIDI compatible instruments.
Who can make use of MIDI?
The term "MIDI" sounds complicated. Actually, it's not
difficult to learn. Anyone from a novice to a professional musician
can use MIDI to play, arrange or create music.
In fact, most of the electronic instruments today such as an electronic keyboards and organs are MIDI compatible. However, it does not mean that MIDI is only confined to those who know how to play a keyboard. There are MIDI guitars, saxophones, trumpets and would you believe it, violins!
What can I do with MIDI?
With MIDI you can,
And many others!
Okay, I Understand Now.
Then what are you waiting for? Have fun!
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Creative Labs, Inc.