Midi Files Making Computer Music

The Midi (.mid), or "Musical Instrument Digital Interface" files are not the only type of computer music. But you will find them the most common through out the Internet. Do you know how to apply and play them? Probably the most common and universal player for them is "Crescendo", by LiveUpdate. Although the company has a highly advanced model for sale at a modest price, you can also download a free version using the left side menu. It contains full controls including volume and on/off. Install it in minutes and you are in business.

If your Windows 98/95/NT is properly configured you can play the midi file with no other assistance. Any place you can access the files, on the Internet, or your own computer using Windows Explorer, just click on the file and the multimedia player will take over.

And now using a properly compiled "Java Script", you can play many files randomly, just by "Reloading" the web page. This method does not require "Crescendo", although it works with Crescendo too. All you must have is the currrent version of the Netscape Communicator or Microsoft Internet Explorer browser, both also free. Download either also from the left side menu. Try the random selections now, just continue to click on your browser "Reload" button.

On the midi download page you may download "random.zip", as with the midi files, at no charge. It contains a finished HTML page containg the random play features, 10 midi files, and instructions in the form of "readme.doc". It will activate from your Internet browser as per the instructions, making a nice midi starter kit and library. You are welcome to alter the midi selections in the Java script, just notify the author by e-mail. You will view the author's instructions and info when you edit the "random.htm" file.