The Lua runtime matches the MIDI input to a specific script template and executes the corresponding code instantly. Writing a Basic midi2lua Script
| Feature | Description | |---------|-------------| | | Map MIDI channels to different Lua callback functions. | | Loop markers | Detect MIDI cue points and auto-generate loop logic. | | Note slicing | Convert sustained notes into attack + release events. | | Data compression | Use Lua bit operations to pack events into smaller tables. | | Live reload | Regenerate Lua from MIDI during development (watch mode). |
While most DAWs have built-in MIDI mapping, they are often limited to basic functions like volume and pan. Midi2Lua allows sound designers to script intricate macros. For example, a single button press can cut an audio clip, apply a specific plugin preset, move it to a new track, and fade out the edges automatically. Live Event and Theater Lighting midi2lua
By converting a MIDI track into Lua, lighting designers can write scripts that read the exact velocity and pitch of a keyboard performance to alter the color, intensity, or direction of stage lasers and LEDs in real time. How to Get Started with Midi2Lua
-- Define a function to handle pitch bend events function pitch_bend(channel, value) print("Pitch bend:", channel, value) end The Lua runtime matches the MIDI input to
So why use midi2lua? Here are just a few benefits of working with MIDI files in Lua using midi2lua:
: Popular for "AutoPiano" scripts in games like Roblox, where you can play complex classical pieces perfectly without hitting a single real key. | | Note slicing | Convert sustained notes
This comprehensive guide explores what midi2lua workflows look like, how the conversion works under the hood, and how to implement the resulting Lua data across various production environments. What is midi2lua?
function love.update(dt) tick = tick + dt * (song.ticks_per_beat / 60) -- assumes 60 BPM default while event_idx <= #events and events[event_idx].tick <= tick do local e = events[event_idx] if e.type == "note" then play_sound(e.pitch, e.velocity) elseif e.type == "tempo" then update_playback_speed(e.bpm) end event_idx = event_idx + 1 end end
: Designed for real-time play, allowing you to connect a physical MIDI keyboard to your computer to play in-game instruments.
A shell script, for instance, can take a Lua file, wrap it in a special SysEx (System Exclusive) MIDI message, and send it to the controller over a USB MIDI port. The controller instantly loads and executes the new Lua code, allowing for rapid prototyping and on-the-fly customization.