Standard Midi Note Map For Drums

The Standard MIDI Note Map for Drums: A Comprehensive Guide

Understanding the standard MIDI note map for drums is crucial for anyone working with digital audio workstations (DAWs), drum machines, and other music software. This comprehensive guide will break down the standard MIDI note numbers assigned to various drum sounds, helping you create and edit drum tracks with ease. This information is essential for drum programming, MIDI sequencing, and ensuring compatibility across different music software and hardware.

What is a MIDI Note Map?

A MIDI note map is a standardized system that assigns numerical values (MIDI notes) to specific musical notes and, in the context of drums, to different percussion sounds. Each MIDI note number corresponds to a unique sound, allowing for consistent communication between MIDI devices and software. This consistent mapping is vital for seamless workflow and collaboration.

The Standard MIDI Drum Map (General MIDI Level 1)

The most widely adopted standard is the General MIDI Level 1 specification. It defines a set of 128 MIDI notes, with a significant portion dedicated to percussion instruments. While variations exist, this core set provides a common foundation for drum sounds. Here's a breakdown of the key MIDI notes and their corresponding drum sounds:

Key MIDI Notes and their Drum Sounds:

• Note 35 (C1): Acoustic Bass Drum - This is the fundamental kick drum sound.
• Note 36 (C#1): Bass Drum 1 - Often a slightly different variation of the acoustic bass drum.
• Note 37 (D1): Side Stick - A subtle, quiet sound produced by striking the side of a snare drum stick.
• Note 38 (D#1): Acoustic Snare - The standard snare drum sound.
• Note 39 (E1): Hand Clap - A simple hand clap sound effect.
• Note 40 (F1): Electric Snare - A snare drum sound with a brighter, more electronic tone.
• Note 41 (F#1): Low Floor Tom - A low-pitched tom-tom sound.
• Note 42 (G1): Closed Hi-Hat - A closed hi-hat cymbal sound.
• Note 43 (G#1): High Floor Tom - A higher-pitched floor tom-tom sound.
• Note 44 (A1): Pedal Hi-Hat - The sound of a hi-hat pedal being pressed.
• Note 45 (A#1): Low Tom - A low-pitched tom-tom sound.
• Note 46 (B1): Hi-Mid Tom - A mid-range tom-tom sound.
• Note 47 (C2): Crash Cymbal 1 - A standard crash cymbal sound.
• Note 48 (C#2): High Tom - A high-pitched tom-tom sound.
• Note 49 (D2): Ride Cymbal 1 - A sustained ride cymbal sound.
• Note 50 (D#2): Chinese Cymbal - A distinctive cymbal with a metallic and clangy sound.
• Note 51 (E2): Ride Bell - The bell sound from a ride cymbal.
• Note 52 (F2): Tambourine - A tambourine shake.
• Note 53 (F#2): Splash Cymbal - A bright, shimmering cymbal sound.
• Note 54 (G2): Cowbell - A metallic cowbell sound.
• Note 55 (G#2): Crash Cymbal 2 - A second crash cymbal sound, often with a different tone.
• Note 57 (A#2): Vibraslap - A percussive instrument with a rattling sound.
• Note 59 (B#2): Ride Cymbal 2 - A second ride cymbal sound with a potentially different tone or character.

Understanding the Octave System

Note that these MIDI note numbers follow a standard musical octave system. The numbers increase as you go up in pitch. While the drum sounds are not directly tied to pitch in the same way as melodic instruments, the numbering system provides a consistent framework.

Variations and Expansions

While General MIDI Level 1 provides a foundation, many drum sample libraries and virtual instruments expand on this. They may use the same core notes but offer more detailed variations, additional sounds (e.g., different types of snares or cymbals), and sounds beyond the standard 128.

This comprehensive overview of the standard MIDI note map for drums provides you with the foundation for efficient drum programming and MIDI sequencing. Remember to consult your DAW's documentation or the manual of your specific drum module for details on how this mapping is implemented. Mastering this system streamlines your workflow and opens up possibilities for creative drum programming and music production.