HELP

Got Questions?

What equipment or software do I need to play the midi files?

There are basically two options. Hardware and software.
Hardware would include digital pianos or synthesizers. Check to see if your keyboard has an on-board midi sequencer or player. It must have the ability to read “Standard Midi Files” (SMF). Some keyboards read the data from an SD card and others import the midi file from a computer connection (USB cable). Once imported, you will have control over the midi data to the extent the specific keyboard allows.

Midi software comes in many forms, whether you use a desktop, laptop, tablet or phone. There are hundreds of programs capable of playing midi files, each with their own capabilities and ease of use. Garage Band, Logic Pro, Audacity, Metro, Ableton, FL Studio, Reaper, and Pro Tools are just a few of the options. Many music teachers use Sibelius or Finale as music writing software, but they also work quite well as midi players! Each has a ‘mixer’ window where you can control playback. They usually come with an excellent set of software instrumentation. My favorite app for the iPad is “Sweet MIDI”. It’s very easy to use in a rehearsal and has the ability to access the instrument patches of your keyboard.

Why do I get strings and other instruments playing?

There are no channel instrumentation settings recorded in Octavo Midi files. Your playback device is making those assignments either from the previous setting or using its default settings. You can change that instrumentation yourself so that it is to your liking. Then save the file so that it will use the same voicing the next time. Personally, I always assigned all of the vocal parts to a piano sound, then panned them out left and right to get a nice open sound. You will need to experiment with your device to get the best results.

Why don’t the midi sequence measure numbers match the music publishers measure numbers?

That’s because there is a repeat or D.S./Coda happening in the score. Midi files do not make repeats, but must go in a consecutive sequence. So if measures 21 through 28 repeat, they will be measures 29 through 36 in the sequence on the second time through. Then, the publisher’s measure 29 will be 37 in the midi sequence. Make sure you number the measures in your score appropriately so that you can cue the song in the correct place during rehearsal.

May I use Octavo Midi files as my performance accompanist?

Octavo Midi files are intended to be used as a rehearsal aid. If you do not have access to a capable accompanist for rehearsal, midi files are a great help! However, live accompanists should always be used in a live performance!

Do you accept school Purchase Orders?

No we do not. Payment is required when placing the order. You will immediately receive an email with a link to the file. A receipt will also be included, which you can print and submit to your school or Music Booster organization for reimbursement if you wish.

Can I make recordings of the midi file?

Yes, for educational purposes only. You can import a midi file into a software program such as Garage Band or Logic Pro. They have the ability to convert from midi to mp3. You can mute or solo tracks as needed, adjust volumes, and select instrumentation to suit your needs, then do the conversion. Again, Sibelius and Finale also do an excellent job of this. This capability is terrific if you have students preparing music for auditions or festivals!

What about royalties?

Octavo Midi has secured licensing and pays royalties to the copyright owners of each song in our library. Proof of licensing will be provided upon request.

Any other questions?

Email octavomidi@gmail.com