Importing MIDI files painlessly (DP5)

[Dave Connor]

I am going to be getting MIDI files of orchestral cues from a composer and putting them into my DP palette which has all my proper aux's, bussing, fx sends etc. The only way I know to do this is drag the file from my desktop into DP. Problem is that the names of the tracks are not displayed. If I open the file with DP I lose all my MIDI assignments and fx, aux's (everything basically.) The names of the tracks are displayed but every thing else I need is gone (even though my palette is my default template.)

Will I have to open with DP and then drag the files out as clippings and bring them back in to my template? DP help doesn't give me any info. I'm going to look at the manual but I don't think DP is going to do this the way I would like if memory serves. I guess I'm asking here so someone will say, "You're right, DP doesn't let you do it the way you want." Though I would love it if there's a solution I don't know about.

[Frodo]

Dave--

*Your* DP template may not reflect the kinds of files you get. This is something that must be clearly understood before you proceed. Yes, clippings are your friend, even if a series of incoming MIDI data doesn't reflect all the settings of your templates.

You will need to open the MIDI file in a separate DP project and may need to create several clippings which can be easily translated/transferred to your own production template.

One way to avoid the hassle is to specify to your "providers" that you need projects delivered in a specific format according to your specifications, but of course this is not always possible. If others are unwilling or incapable of doing so (or if they are bound to Logic, ProTools, Garage Band, or what have you, then you just need to get the MIDI opened in DP for your own sake and then split out the data according to your own specs even as what's provided to you rubs against how you prefer to work. The same MIDI file project might necessitate several different clippings which can be imported to a Dave template before you will be in a position to get to work.

PITA--? Yes. But your clients are not thinking of what makes YOUR life easier. That DP can somehow pull it off is a matter apart and should perhaps be limited to what we DP users can freely discuss amongst ourselves.

BTW-- Happy New Year to you, my friend!!

[Dave Connor]

Thanks Mr Frodo. Giving it a go.

Happy New Year to you too my friend!

DC

[Dave Connor]

Opening up in DP and then creating clippings was the only sure-fire way to get track names. It wasn't major work to do it. The MIDI file was a Finale export so some strange bedfellows ended up on the same tracks (piccolo and chorus for example.) The main point being I was able to get the job so done so thanks once again Mr. Frodo for your helpful input.