MIDI Week 1 Videos

Here are some of the video clips we will be watching this week in MIDI 1:

1. Player Piano An early "sequencer". We will be comparing how a player piano works to how MIDI works.

2. Theremin Synthesizer invented in 1928. This video features the inventor (Leon Theremin) playing his invention.

3. Crazy Theremin A modern use of the Theremin.

4. Ondes Martenot Another early synth, also invented 1928.

5. Ondes Martenot Radiohead This video includes a tiny clip of Radiohead using the Ondes Martenot.

6. Rick Wakeman This clip shows the keyboard player from the 70s art-rock band Yes, in concert surrounded by stacks of classic analog synthesizers.

MIDI Week 1

This week in MIDI 1 we will lay the groundwork for the semester. Please visit and bookmark my Learning Web page. There you will find the course syllabus, handouts, and assignments. If you ever miss class it will be your responsibility to print out any materials I handed out.

Required Materials for MIDI 1:

Please get your materials as soon as possible and bring them to class. You will need headphones by the 2nd class. You do not need expensive headphones; any pair will do.

1. Pocket USB Flash Drive (1GB minimum)

2. MIDI Power! by Robert Guerin ISBN 978-1598630848

3. CD-Rs for data backup and Audio CDs

4. Jewel cases or paper sleeves for CD-Rs

5. Permanent marker (for labeling CDs)

6. Notebook for notes

7. Stereo Headphones with ¼” and 1/8” plugs

Make sure to fill out the Lab Usage Agreement and return it to the Lab Aid desk located by the front doors of the Performing Arts Center. You will not be able to use the MIDI Lab (418) outside of class without a Lab Usage Agreement on file.

MIDI 1 Fall 2010

Welcome to MIDI 1. Please bookmark this site. I will update regularly with information like what we will be doing in class and links to videos you may find interesting.