Converting audio files to midi information can be an incredibly useful tool for your audio production sessions. You can use this technique to extract rhythmic or melodic content from an audio sample that you can then edit or repurpose.
For example, you could extract the notation from a vocal hook, rearrange it and apply that notation to a synth or other instrument. Converting audio to midi is also wonderful if you wish to pull apart someone’s compositions for study or practice.
Today I’m going to show you how to convert almost any audio into midi information to use on your compositions. I’ve provided a simple breakdown of how to do such across most of the basic DAWS, as well as just by using your ear.
It should be noted that I use these techniques on drum breaks, vocal hooks, chord progressions, and mostly organic instruments. These conversions generally work on solo-ed instruments, as it’s nearly impossible to precisely extract all the midi information from an entire mix.
How to Convert Audio to MIDI by Ear
This method is the most comprehensive on the list, though it can also be the most time-consuming. However, developing this skill will undoubtedly enhance your musical abilities by training you to be a more attentive listener.
- Isolate the Instrument: Begin by soloing the instrument from which you want to extract MIDI. For this example, let’s use a synth lead line.
- Play Along: Attempt to play along with the part using a MIDI piano or another straightforward instrument. If the section is too complex, consider slowing down the track to make it easier to follow.
- Record Your Performance: Once you can confidently perform the piece, record yourself playing alongside the soloed instrument.
- Access the Piano Roll: Open the piano roll in your DAW, and you should see each note you played laid out for you. This allows you to tweak and rearrange the notes as needed. You can also use the piano roll to correct any mistakes made during the recording process.
How to Convert Audio to MIDI in FL Studio
Converting audio to MIDI in FL Studio can open up a world of creative possibilities for your music production. Whether you’re looking to extract melodies from vocal samples, drum patterns from recordings, or any other musical elements, this process allows you to manipulate and rearrange your audio in new and exciting ways. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to seamlessly convert audio into MIDI, enabling you to enhance your compositions and take your productions to the next level. Let’s dive in!
- Import the Audio: Drag and drop the audio file you want to convert into a track in arrangement mode.
- Access Sample Editing: Left-click on the corner of the audio sample to open a dropdown menu. From there, select the ‘Edit sample’ option under the Sample section.
- Open Edison: This will launch Edison, FL Studio’s audio sample editing tool. Choose the desired pattern and channel where you want the MIDI notes to be placed.
- Convert to MIDI: Right-click anywhere on the audio sample in Edison, and a dropdown menu will appear. Select ‘Convert to score and dump to Piano Roll’ from the Tools section.
- Utilize the MIDI Notes: The notes from the selected audio should now be visible in a new piano roll on a separate track, ready for you to use.
How to Convert Audio to MIDI in Ableton
Converting audio to MIDI in Ableton Live is an incredibly powerful feature that allows you to unlock new creative avenues in your music production. Whether you’re looking to extract melodic lines from vocal samples, transform chord progressions from guitar recordings, or isolate drum patterns, this process enables you to manipulate and reimagine your audio in a MIDI format. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the straightforward steps to convert audio into MIDI, helping you enhance your projects and expand your sonic palette. Let’s get started!
- Import the Audio: Drag and drop the audio file you wish to convert into a track in arrangement mode.
- Access Conversion Options: Right-click on the audio sample to open a dropdown menu. From this menu, select the “Convert Audio to MIDI” option.
- Choose a Conversion Type: In Ableton, you’ll find three conversion options: Melody (for monophonic sounds), Harmony (for chords), and Drums. Choose the option that best matches the audio file you are converting.
- View and Edit MIDI Notes: Ableton will convert the audio channel into a MIDI track, displaying your notes in a piano roll for further adjustments and tweaking.
How to Convert Audio to MIDI in Logic Pro
- Import the Audio: Drag and drop the audio file you want to convert into a track in arrangement mode.
- Open the Sample Editor: Double-click on the audio sample or press E on your keyboard to access the sample editing tool.
- Enable Flex Pitch: In the top-left corner of the editor, locate the DNA-shaped icon for Flex Pitch and turn this feature on. You should see blue square-shaped notes appear around the transients of your audio sample.
- Create MIDI Track: Click on the Edit tab in the top-left corner of the editor window, and select “Create MIDI Track from Flex Pitch Data.”
- Edit Your MIDI Notes: Logic Pro will generate a new channel with your converted MIDI notes displayed in a piano roll, allowing you to edit and adjust them as needed.
How to Convert Audio to MIDI in Pro Tools
- Import the Audio: Drag and drop the audio file you wish to convert into a track in arrangement mode.
- Create a New Stereo Track: Set up a new stereo track for the audio you want to convert, then drag the audio file into this new track.
- Open the Audio to MIDI Menu: A menu for Audio to MIDI conversion should appear in the center of the screen. This menu offers various conversion options, including percussive, melodic, polyphonic, and universal. Choose the option that best suits your audio file.
- Convert to MIDI: Your audio will be converted into a new MIDI channel, allowing you to select an instrument to apply the notation to.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, converting audio to MIDI is a valuable skill that can greatly enhance your music production capabilities across various DAWs. By extracting melodic and rhythmic elements from audio samples, you can manipulate and rearrange these components to create unique compositions. Each digital audio workstation offers its own tools and methods for this conversion, making it essential to familiarize yourself with the specific features of the software you use.
As you practice these techniques, you’ll not only expand your creative possibilities but also improve your listening skills and musical understanding. Whether you’re working with vocals, instruments, or drum patterns, the ability to convert audio to MIDI opens up new avenues for experimentation and innovation in your productions. Embrace this skill, and let it inspire your musical journey!