How to Setup a MIDI Track in Pro Tools

This article will teach you how to setup a MIDI track in Pro Tools. MIDI is quickly becoming a staple in modern recording. If you don't know how to use MIDI, it's time to get on board! With MIDI you can program a virtually unlimited number of different instruments such as drums, pianos, strings, vintage synths--you name it. MIDI is a flexible and powerful tool that should be part of any modern artist or engineer's tool kit.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Pro Tools software
• Pro Tools hardware
• Computer

Setting Up a MIDI Track in Pro Tools

1. Create a new session in Pro Tools by selecting File - New Session from the main menu. A blank Pro Tools session will appear on your screen.

2. Create a new MIDI track by selecting File - New Track from the main menu. A pop-up dialog will appear.

3. Select MIDI under track type. A new MIDI track will appear in the edit window.

4. Create a new auxiliary track by choosing File - New track from the main menu. A pop-up dialog will appear.

5. Choose "aux" for track type. A new auxiliary track will appear in the edit window.

6. Click the insert button in your auxiliary track. A dialog box will appear.

7. Choose an instrument from the insert menu dialog box. This can be any type of instrument that is compatible with MIDI.

8. Click the output button on your MIDI track. A menu will appear.

9. Select your instrument from the MIDI output menu. Make sure to select the same instrument that you chose in step 7.

10. Press the record button on your MIDI track. You should now be ready to go. Play your MIDI track and the MIDI data you create. This will be routed to the instrument you chose on your AUX track. It's that simple. You now know how to setup a MIDI track in Pro Tools!

Tips & Warnings

• MIDI is highly flexible. Once you enter data into your MIDI track, you can use that data for any instrument in your arsenal. If you simply select a different instrument on your aux track, you can play the same notes with a variety of different instruments. Try your MIDI notes with a sax, piano or a violin all using the same data! MIDI makes experimenting a breeze!