Yamaha VP-1 Owner's Manual page 29

MIDI
The VP1's MIDI capability significantly expands the range of performance opportunities available to you. This
page presents a brief overview of the VP1 MIDI.
What is MIDI?
MIDI ("Musical Instrument Digital Interface") is the internationally recognized
standard interface for music-related digital communication among electronic
instruments, computers, sequencers, and related devices.
MIDI connectors and cables
All MIDI devices include MIDI connectors marked IN (input), OUT (output), and
THRU. (The THRU connector relays the data received at the IN connector.) MIDI
connections are made by running standard MIDI cables between these connectors.
Each MIDI cable connects the OUT or THRU connector of one device to the IN
connector of another device.
Channels
A single MIDI cable can carry up to 16 channels of performance data — with each
channel originating from a different device. If you have a MIDI setup consisting of
three keyboards outputting performance data to a fourth device, for example, each
keyboard would be transmitting data over its own channel. Each channel is identified
by its channel number (1 to 16).
Data types
Each channel carries a variety of data types. Data types include the following.
Channel Messages
• Note data:
• Control change:
• Program change:
• Channel aftertouch:
• Pitch-bend:
System Messages
• System-exclusive messages:
Struck notes (pitches), and striking force
Controller movement (modulation wheel, foot
controller, breath controller, etc.)
New voice selection
Pressure retained on key after initial strike
Movement of the pitch wheel
Remote switch operation only (receive only)
Chapter 1 Setting It Up
MIDI
BASICS
1 - 17