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From: geert@ahds.UUCP (Geert W.T. Jonkheer CCS/TS)
Newsgroups: comp.sys.atari.st,comp.music
Subject: Midi file format (Used by several midi programs).
Keywords: midi, midi file format, atari, synthesizer
Message-ID: <1482@ahds.UUCP>
Date: 13 Mar 91 13:17:04 GMT
Organization: Ahold NV, Zaandam, Netherlands, EEC
Lines: 41

Hi midi & atari-st fans,

I am writing a midi program for the atari ST. As many other programs,
I would like to use the standard Midi file format to store  
midi data on disk. However, I don't know what the terms on this 
format are. Where can I find information about the midi file format?

The information i would like to get is:

1) Are the parameters in the standard midi file machine independant.
   Can all parameters be used on every midi instrument?

2) How are the parameters orded in the midi file.

3) Can machine dependant data (for example midi exclusive data) also be
   stored in the midi file, or must i use my own format to store these
   data.

4) Many midi music programs are using the standard control commands
   for manipulating the music (such as bender, hold etc.)
   I have not seen a program use control commands that are 
   particularly for a midi instrument (such as sound effectors which
   are not descriped in the midi standard). 
   Programs must use the standard control commands and the 
   'user defined' control commands for manipulating music 
   (i think) to get the most flexibility.
   Is there a program on the market that uses this concept? 
     
 
Is there a good book written about this subject?
Reactions to comp.sys.atari.st (i think some musicians and midi
programmers would appreciate the answers too) or by mail.

Geert.

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Geert Jonkheer                       UUCP:-----> ....!hp4nl!ahds!geert 
......................................................................
 There is no better music than synth music!!!!! 
 (Especially when it's written by your own)           G.W.T. Jonkheer.
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