What Is The Best Free MIDI Software For Beginners In 2023
MIDI keyboards are useful for composing music at home. This instrument sends a code to your DAW that registers as music instead of controlling an audio signal that requires a recording device.
This code is transferred to the software, which tells it where to play particular notes. You’ll hear music that wasn’t available from the instrument when you playback the album.
Headphones connected to your hardware (computers, laptops, tablets, and so on) would allow you to hear music from your MIDI keyboard in real-time.
You can have fun playing and composing music every day if you find the best free MIDI keyboard software for your platform.
Table of Contents
What is MIDI and how does it work?
First and foremost, I think it’s always helpful to understand how MIDI works. If you’re like me and come from a background of playing an acoustic instrument like the piano or guitar, the world of MIDI and digital music production can be a little perplexing. You may skip this section if you already understand how it works.
MIDI is a digital signal that allows various electronic devices to communicate with one another (I know, it sounds very dystopian!). This code conveys information such as the note pressed, how hard it was pressed, and when it was published.
When a MIDI keyboard or other MIDI device does not produce an audio signal, it must be connected to another device that can convert the code into something we can understand. This is usually a laptop or computer in today’s world.
Modern MIDI devices almost always use a USB connection to connect and communicate. However, merely connecting the device is insufficient. The computer will receive the code, but it will require software to make a sound.
The best free music-making software will allow you to write and record music without the bells and whistles of paid-for software, as well as the associated costs.
If you want to be musically innovative on your computer without spending money, free music-making software is ideal. Programs that aid in the creation of music can be prohibitively expensive, but they are among the many tools that people use to make a living.
However, there is an excellent selection of free music-making software available that will give you a good taste of what’s possible without breaking the bank.
Apple Garageband is the best free music-making software, and it’s the perfect introduction to music production and a clear path to Apple’s pro-level DAW.
However, it isn’t your only choice, and we’ve compiled a list of four other great music-making tools so you can choose the best one for you.
You might be surprised by the level of quality found here. Given the high price tags often associated with music production software, you’d be forgiven for expecting free tools to scrimp on features to make them worthwhile.
Thankfully, using free music-making software does not necessitate making significant sacrifices.
What Is a MIDI Keyboard and How Does It Work?
A Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) keyboard communicates with computers, hardware, and other instruments using digital protocols. It was created in order to make a variety of musical products compatible with those from other manufacturers. In 1981, Ikytaro Kakehashi presented the first MIDI solution.
MIDI is a universal language that uses a digital signal to communicate. It employs binary code to allow instruments from various manufacturers to communicate with one another and with other hardware in order for musicians to create music.
This is in contrast to the classical keyboard, which produces an audio signal that you can hear right away.
A MIDI keyboard must be connected to a device that can convert the played notes to audio. Some instruments function as stand-alone products with MIDI connectivity, providing artists with even more options. As a third performance option, the best items contain an amplifier connection.
To transfer the instrument language to another device, older instruments used pin-based connections. Audio is now created using USB technologies and compatible software.
Your MIDI keyboard will not work if one of these components is missing.
Is it possible to play sound without a computer using a MIDI keyboard?
To produce audio, MIDI keyboards require a device that can read their code. Even though it isn’t a computer, you’ll need to use something else if the instrument doesn’t produce internal sounds. Tone generators, MIDI controllers, and synthesizers are examples of what you might use.
When you use a MIDI keyboard on anything other than a computer, you lose the benefits of this technology. The goal is for the instrument to send code to DAW software, which will generate recording data.
If you connect your MIDI keyboard to a different port, the instrument becomes a standard product. When you press the keys, it makes sounds.
As a result, having a new keyboard with different connectivity features is the best option. It will play when the instrument is turned on, send code to software for recording, or send the output to an amplifier to make the desired music.
Some models let you connect all three functions at the same time. Depending on the situation, you choose one from the control menu.
At a glance, the best free music-making software:
1. Garageband
2. Waveform Free
3. AmpliTube
4. SyndtSphere.
5. Cakewalk
6. T7 (Tracking)
7. The Ideal Piano
8. Cakewalk with BandLab
9. Pianu.
10. MidiEditor
11. Piano Playing Time
12. 10 notes on the piano
1. GarageBand
The best music-making software available for free
PROS
- Simple to use
- Styles from various genres
- extremely powerful.
Cons
- Some key features are missing.
Although it still lacks a few key features (such as MIDI export and the ability to control external hardware via MIDI), Apple’s long-standing digital audio workstation has come a long way since we first saw it in 2004, and while it still lacks a few key features (such as MIDI export and the ability to control external hardware via MIDI), GarageBand provides more than enough to get you started.
Apple has done an excellent job of creating the ideal entry point into music production, with a clear path to Logic Pro X (Apple’s full-featured professional DAW).
Drummer, a seriously easy-to-use groove-maker with various genre styles, simple controls, and a ton of pattern and fill variations, is one of the shared features. You’ll also hear sounds from Apple’s Loops sound library. There’s also a familiar Logic interface to help with the transition.
GarageBand is a strong and easy-to-use DAW that seems to be getting better with age, despite its limit of 255 tracks per song.
2. Waveform Free
The most effective free DAW
Pros
- Full-featured digital audio workstation
- Endless audio and MIDI
Cons
- An older version is available
Tracktion appears to have devised a clever business strategy by making older versions of their DAW available for free, with no restrictions.
The standard appears to be to make the version two iterations prior to the current one free to download. You won’t get all of the latest features, but you’ll get an update whenever the company updates its flagship DAW, which happens almost every year. Waveform Free is the most recent edition to have its price reduced.
Every section is scalable, so you can tailor it to your needs, and the bottom panel changes to show the parameters you’ve chosen elsewhere on the screen.
Waveform Free can also host various plugin formats, including VST and Audio Units, and has an unlimited number of audio and MIDI tracks (depending on your hardware capabilities, of course).
Note that before you can download the software, you must first create an account by entering an email address and password. When you first run the software after installing it, you’ll notice that it’s in demo mode, but don’t worry; simply click ‘Unlock…’ and enter the address and password you set earlier, and all of the software’s features will become available.
3. AmpliTube
The most effective free guitar rig
Pros
- Completely functional guitar setup
- Many different models
- Many different effects
IK Multimedia’s AmpliTube Custom Shop is a stripped-down version of AmpliTube, but it’s still a fully functional guitar rig modeling app. This free version includes a digital chromatic tuner, nine stompboxes, four amps, five cabs, three mics, and two rack effects, as well as a digital chromatic tuner.
When recording directly into a laptop, there’s plenty to keep any guitarist satisfied, not least the fact that IK Multimedia has guaranteed official guitar amp models from the likes of Fender, Ampeg, Orange, Mesa Boogie, and many others.
So, if you want to enlarge your collection of amp models, stompboxes, and cab sims, you’ll have to start spending some money at this point. The ‘try before you buy the program, on the other hand, is a welcome addition.
4. SyndtSphere.
Pros
- Easy to use for beginners
- Software synthesizers that are easily accessible
- More than 70 presets
Klevgrand may not be a household name, but the Stockholm-based production company has made a name for itself with a number of high-quality instruments with unusual interfaces.
SyndtSphere is no different, and it’s one of the most user-friendly software synthesizers available. The great fun here is the way you can morph between sounds using a nifty sphere-like object at the center of the app, which has over 70 presets.
SyndtSphere has an amazing array of sounds hidden within, so more experienced producers needn’t be put off by the beginner-friendly feel. The special morphing feature makes for some solid sound design, but you might find yourself fiddling with it for a long time before getting anything done.
5. Cakewalk
Pros
- All-in-one music production solution
- Tools for advanced mixing and mastering
- Endless audio and MIDI
Cakewalk – formerly Cakewalk SONAR – was one of the first digital audio workstations, but development was halted by its owner Gibson. Fortunately for musicians, BandLab, a cloud music creation platform, purchased the software and made it free to download.
Cakewalk is a full-featured music production suite that includes songwriting tools and instruments, advanced mixing and mastering tools, unrestricted MIDI and audio tracks for your own recordings, and a comprehensive set of editing tools. After you’ve completed it, you can upload your work to SoundCloud, Youtube, Facebook, and a variety of other platforms.
It’s a shame it’s only for Windows 10 right now, but we’re excited to see where BandLab makes Cakewalk in the future.
6. T7 (Traction)
The older versions of this DAW are downloaded for free when a new version is released, which is a special business model for this DAW. They hope that once you see how helpful the software is with your MIDI keyboard, you’ll want to upgrade.
This DAW’s sections are all scalable. With a few clicks, it adapts to your preferred workflow, showing whatever parameters you prefer. Create an unlimited number of MIDI and audio tracks, as well as various plugin formats and live recordings if you have the necessary equipment.
Your imagination is only limited by the performance statistics of your hardware.
This free MIDI keyboard software is one of the few options for using Audio Units and VST for free.
To use the DAW, you must first build an account. When you first start the software, you’ll be asked to unlock the free features.
7. The Perfect Piano
This free app detects your linked MIDI keyboard automatically. It allows you to choose from a variety of sounds to play with, with even more downloadable and free options available.
The software’s standout feature is its ability to last. If you use a pedal in conjunction with your keyboard, you’ll get a realistic sound with fade when you play. It allows you to record in audio or MIDI format before moving on to a more formal DAW.
Perfect Piano has a “learn to play” feature that allows you to hit notes as they appear on your smartphone or tablet screen. It’s similar to a game, except it teaches you how to play your instrument.
With this software, latency is kept to a minimum. It isn’t compatible with iOS devices, but it does work with the majority of Android operating systems, including older ones. The sounds are genuine, enjoyable to use, and simple to control.
8. BandLab Cakewalk
One of the first DAW solutions for recording artists was this free MIDI keyboard software. Gibson had complete control over the programming for more than a decade before deciding to go in a different direction. The fees were eliminated when BandLab took over.
This is a complete music production package that you can download. It’s a viable alternative to platforms like Garageband if you choose to work on a Windows PC. To finish your composition, you get many advanced mastering tools, mixing filters, and unlimited MIDI tracks.
Numerous editing tools are included in the DAW to assist you in creating the perfect sound from your keyboard, vocals, or recorded instruments.
You can adjust the tone, add compression, and make all of the other adjustments that you’d find in any other DAW.
When you’re happy with the work you’ve done, the music can be directly published on a variety of platforms. SoundCloud, YouTube, and Facebook are all compatible.
To use the free BandLab Cakewalk MIDI keyboard software, you must have Windows 10 installed on your computer.
9. Pianu.
The problem with this free MIDI keyboard software is that in order to prevent malware, you must use the web-based version. It’s a good choice for playing your instrument right away if you don’t like the idea of uploading anything to your computer or mobile device.
From the beginning, it offers a user-friendly experience. Pianu detects your keyboard and encourages you to start playing right away.
The software isn’t overly difficult to use. It has built-in lessons that allow you to learn how to play the piano. You can learn the fundamentals of each note, how to build chords, and play along with popular songs.
It’s a lot better than learning to play the piano by repeating “Mary Had a Little Lamb” or “Row, Row, Row Your Boat.”
This free web-based product is incompatible with live performances or general recordings. It’s good for learning, but it would be best if the sustain was genuine. The one advantage you’ll notice right away is that there’s almost no latency.
10. MidiEditor
If you want to record, edit, and play your output, this free MIDI keyboard software is for you. If you’ve tried other platforms and failed, this product opens existing files and allows you to change the content. It also composes new music using direct input or software instruments within the program.
The software’s only flaw is that it isn’t very user-friendly. As you play, lines will appear in DAW format. This data serves as the digital code for the notes, laying the groundwork for accurate playback. You’ll have to wait until the album is finished to see the outcome of your efforts.
You can change instrument tones to make unique sounds once the recording has been edited. To save time editing, the software allows you to automatically move incorrect notes to the correct beat and correct other errors.
Although this free software does not allow you to directly import sounds, it does serve as a learning tool for MIDI editing. With a little practice, you’ll be able to move up to a paid platform.
11. Piano Time
If you want to create a plug-and-play experience for your MIDI keyboard, this software solution is a must-have. It has 36 keys and four octaves to choose from, as well as several other configurable features.
Unless you have an older keyboard, the app will accept it right away. Because the software’s goal is to sound like a traditional piano, there aren’t many options for changing the tone or instrument. It doesn’t have delay or reverb, but it does have sustain if you have a pedal connected to your device.
It does, however, allow you to record and save clips of your favorite songs. If you have a DAW, this app gives you layering options that you wouldn’t get from other methods. The file is not maintained in the free version, so it must be kept open to be available.
If you don’t have a MIDI instrument, you can use a computer keyboard instead. The key-mapping feature is comparable to that found in Cakewalk, GarageBand, and other DAWs.
12. piano 10
If you download this free MIDI keyboard software, you can choose from over 100 different sounds. One of the best features is the auto-chord feature, which assists you in learning the various kinds of chords that can be used in your music. You can use echo, sustain, or reverb, but you must use each one separately.
Surprisingly, the sound quality is excellent. It doesn’t have volume variations like other free downloads, so what you do hear is real.
When using your MIDI keyboard, you’ll find that many of the sounds are enjoyable to experiment with. Even so, they aren’t useful in terms of performance.
Consider it a risk-free way to try out new things before starting a gig or trying your hand at songwriting.
Piano 10 does not allow you to change the size of your keys or add more to the display. The entire instrument plays (not all software supports this feature), but the keys do not light up on your screen. If you prefer a visual representation of your music, you might be disappointed with this download.
The top-of-the-screen banner advertisements don’t interfere with the software’s usability, but they can be distracting when you’re trying to figure out a tune.
On this platform, each recording can be saved as a proprietary file. The clips can only be played with this software, so you can layer composition with other recordings to play with.
Android’s Best Free Midi Keyboard App
Yes, you can use a MIDI device without even using a computer these days. You can now use your MIDI keyboard to make music directly from your phone or tablet.
I paid under $10 for this basic USB C to USB adapter, which allows me to use my phone to play my 49-key MIDI keyboard.
You’ll need to download some software (an app) to do this, just like the other devices listed above, and there are plenty of fantastic free options to choose from.
1. The Perfect Piano
Ease of Use
You may already know how to connect your Android device to a MIDI keyboard, but it’s a straightforward process if you don’t (you can find out in this step-by-step guide).
The Perfect Piano app can automatically detect that a MIDI keyboard is connected once it is plugged in, and it should work right away without any setup! For those who just want to plug in and play, this is a huge plus.
Feature
The keyboard in the app is set to a piano sound by default. However, you also have access to a large number of extra sounds, ranging from strings to synths, as well as a large number of additional free sounds to download.
You can record your efforts in either MIDI or audio format, and there is a sustain button to simulate using a piano pedal.
There are some good extra features in the app, such as ‘learn to play.’ You can play along with the notes as they appear on the screen, similar to guitar hero (if you remember that game), except you’re learning a real instrument.
Performance and Sound
I had no apparent lag with my Android phone (which is now a few years old), which astounded me. Over the years, I’ve had a lot of problems with MIDI latency on PCs and laptops. I can’t promise you won’t run into problems, but if your phone is newer than mine, you should be fine!
The sound effects are truly amazing. Although the digital piano has a programmed sound, it is no more so than most other MIDI pianos. It’s also a lot of fun to mess around with the synths and strings.
I like how the number of keys on the screen can be changed. Many mobile MIDI apps are missing this feature.
Is Midi available for free?
The first paragraph is an introduction. MidiEditor is a free program that allows you to edit, record, and play Midi data. Using MidiEditor, the recorded data can be easily quantified and edited.
What is the best way for me to make my own music for free?
Apple Garageband is the best free music-making software, and it’s the perfect introduction to music production and a clear path to Apple’s pro-level DAW.
Is it possible to play a MIDI keyboard without a computer?
Yes, MIDI controllers can be used without a computer, which is a simple response to this conundrum. The real question, though, is how to use a MIDI controller. While a personal computer is not required to play or practice on a MIDI keyboard, it must be connected to a device that can process and produce audio.
Final Thoughts on MIDI Keyboard Software for Free
You can play whenever the mood strikes with the best free MIDI keyboard software solutions. It will allow you to bypass the computer or begin your recording career if desired. From the beginning, you have complete control over the experience.
If you already have a MIDI keyboard at home, these free add-ons will help you get more out of it. Keep these downloads in mind when you’re looking for something to play when you’re out shopping.
There are many free MIDI apps and software programs available nowadays. What matters is that you ask yourself, “What do I need the software for?” Stick to something straightforward if you’re just practicing piano or messing around. However, if you think you’d like to make full tracks or use more advanced techniques, there’s probably something for you as well.
When you’re ready to take the next step, the best thing is to switch to a DAW of your choosing. Ableton Live, which is especially good for MIDI, is what I use. However, there are a plethora of other options. My suggestion would be to download a free trial, watch a few ‘how-to’ videos and see which one you find best.
The opportunities for MIDI music production are virtually limitless!
Thanks for your visit to our site.