MIDIGRiD features an 8x8 grid that allows you to visually input and manipulate MIDI notes in real time. Each row of the grid represents a specific note, and each column represents a step in the sequence. The grid allows for intuitive and creative sequencing, enabling you to quickly create complex melodies, rhythms, and chord progressions.
Adding and removing a block from the grid
In order to add a block, select a direct block (up, down, left, right) in the left menu and then click on an empty grid cell.
To remove a block click on the cell once again. To replace a block, select a new tool and click on an occupied cell.
Getting started with a sequence
In order to start a sequence we need to first add blocks to the grid in lanes corresponding to notes and chords we want to hear.
Click on a direct block tool then click on an empty cell for it to occupy
Click play in your DAW to start the sequence playing
When you activate the DAW transport the direct blocks will move in the direction indicated on the block. When the block touches the top, bottom, left or write wall then the related note or chord will play.
Experiment with adding different blocks your sequence
OVERVIEW OF ADSR MIDIGRiD BLOCKS
Direct Blocks (Up, Down, Left, Right)
There are four direct blocks Upwards, Downwards, Left and Right. Click on the squares to assign them to the grid, then watch as they move, interact and trigger MIDI notes. The interaction of blocks is the key to spontaneous and evolving melodic patterns.
Redirect Blocks
Unlike Direct Blocks, Redirect Blocks do not move or trigger notes, instead they stay put and change the direction of any Direct Blocks that collide with them. Redirect Blocks enhance the element of randomness giving your patterns dimension and movement.
Notes / Chords
When a Direct Block hits the edge of the Grid it triggers a note. There are controls at the right and above the grid that allow you to select whether a note or chord is triggered when this happens.
Notes and chords are displayed according to your chosen scale. Right click a note to make it a chord.
MIDI Parameteres / Melodic Attributes
To the left of the grid, there are controls for the key and scale, the speed of the sequencer, the length of the generated notes, and velocity. When changing key and scale, the changes made will be harmonically informed – you will always change to a key or scale that is harmonically adjacent to the one you just left.
Scale - Choose the scale you wish to use
Root Note - Set the root note.
Note Length - Controls the length of the MIDI notes that are generated.
Speed - Controls how fast active nodes move across the grid.
Velocity - Controls the velocity of the notes triggered
Velocity Variation - Turn this up to add a random element to the velocity.