M1 v4.2.1 MIDI 1.0 Detailed Specification 96-1-4

MIDI, the Musical Instrument Digital Interface, was established as a hardware and software specification which would make it possible to exchange information (musical notes, program changes, expression control, etc.) between different musical instruments or other devices such as sequencers, computers, lighting controllers, mixers, etc. This ability to transmit and receive data was originally conceived for live performances, although subsequent developments have had enormous impact in recording studios, audio and video production, and composition environments.
This 1996 revision of the MIDI 1.0 specification includes:

• MIDI 1.0 Data Format
• Core Layout of all MIDI 1.0 Messages (Channel Voice Messages, System Messages, Universal System Exclusive)
• Original 5 pin DIN serial Transport
• Some of the Enhancements added to MIDI 1.0 from 1983 to 1996.

Other enhancements to MIDI 1.0 are available as separate specification downloads from this site. MIDI 2.0 specifications, which rely on this MIDI 1.0 specification, are also available on this site.