10 MIDI Tips You Should Know About | Cubase Secrets with Dom

Introduction

This tutorial covers ten essential MIDI tips designed to enhance your music production workflow in Cubase. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced user, these tips will help you edit MIDI notes more efficiently, allowing you to focus on your creativity without getting bogged down by complex editing tasks.

Step 1: Utilize the MIDI Editor

• Open the MIDI editor by double-clicking on a MIDI track.
• Familiarize yourself with the various tools available, such as the pencil tool for note creation and the eraser tool for deletions.
• Use the quantize function to align notes to the grid, ensuring a tight rhythm.

Step 2: Explore MIDI Input Quantization

• Enable input quantization to automatically align notes as you play them.
• Access this feature in the MIDI Preferences section.
• Adjust the settings to match your desired note values (e.g., quarter notes, eighth notes).

Step 3: Make Use of MIDI Expressions

• Experiment with MIDI expression maps to enhance your MIDI performances.
• Set up expression maps for different articulations or dynamics in your virtual instruments.
• This can help in achieving a more realistic sound.

Step 4: Leverage MIDI Transform Functions

• Open the MIDI Transform window from the MIDI menu.
• Use functions like "Transpose" or "Velocity Change" to modify your MIDI data in bulk.
• This can save time compared to editing notes individually.

Step 5: Utilize the Chord Track

• Create a chord track for harmonic guidance in your project.
• Input chords using the chord pad or by drawing them in the chord track.
• This feature helps in arranging and composing harmonies effectively.

Step 6: Take Advantage of MIDI Effects

• Explore MIDI effects like Arpeggiators or Chord Pads.
• Add these effects to your MIDI tracks to create interesting patterns and variations.
• This can significantly enhance your musical ideas.

Step 7: Work with MIDI Automation

• Automate MIDI parameters such as volume, pan, and effects.
• Open the automation lane for your MIDI track and draw in your automation curves.
• This adds dynamic changes to your MIDI performances over time.

Step 8: Use MIDI Routing for Creative Effects

• Route your MIDI tracks to different instruments or effects.
• This allows for creative layering and sound design within your project.
• Experiment with sending MIDI to multiple destinations for unique results.

Step 9: Master MIDI Controller Setup

• Set up your MIDI controller in Cubase’s Device Setup menu.
• Map controls like faders and knobs to specific parameters in your virtual instruments.
• This hands-on control can make your workflow more intuitive and enjoyable.

Step 10: Save and Recall MIDI Presets

• Save your favorite MIDI settings and configurations as presets.
• Use the presets for quick recall in future projects, ensuring consistency across your work.
• This can streamline your workflow and save time in the long run.

Conclusion

By implementing these ten MIDI tips in Cubase, you'll enhance your music production process, making it more efficient and enjoyable. Explore each step to discover how these features can benefit your workflow. For further learning, consider trying out the trial version of Cubase and experimenting with the various functions discussed. Happy music-making!