Convert MIDI to MUSICXML

Understanding MIDI and MusicXML file formats

MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) is a technical standard that describes a protocol, digital interface, and connectors for connecting electronic musical instruments, computers, and related devices. MIDI files (.mid) contain performance data such as notes, velocity, and control signals, but do not store actual audio.

MusicXML is an XML-based file format for representing Western musical notation. It is designed for sharing sheet music between different scorewriters and music notation software. MusicXML files (.musicxml or .xml) store detailed notation, including pitch, rhythm, dynamics, articulations, and layout information.

Why convert MIDI to MusicXML?

Converting MIDI to MusicXML allows musicians and composers to transform performance data into readable sheet music. This is useful for editing, printing, or sharing musical scores across different notation programs.

How to convert MIDI to MusicXML

To convert a MIDI file to MusicXML, you need software that can interpret MIDI performance data and generate accurate notation. Here are the steps using a recommended tool:

• MuseScore (free and open-source notation software):
1. Open MuseScore.
2. Go to File → Open and select your MIDI (.mid) file.
3. MuseScore will import the MIDI and display it as sheet music.
4. Review and edit the notation as needed for accuracy.
5. Go to File → Export and choose MusicXML as the export format.
6. Save the file with a .musicxml or .xml extension.

Other notable converters include Finale and Sibelius, both of which support MIDI import and MusicXML export, but MuseScore is highly recommended for its accessibility and robust features.

Tips for best results

• Clean up your MIDI file before conversion to reduce errors in notation.
• After importing, check for incorrect rhythms or note groupings and adjust as needed.
• Use quantization settings during import to improve notation accuracy.

Conclusion

Converting MIDI to MusicXML is straightforward with the right software. MuseScore offers a free and effective solution for transforming MIDI performance data into editable and shareable sheet music in MusicXML format.