MIDI keyboard aftertouch is a feature commonly found on MIDI keyboards that allows for additional expression and nuance in playing.
By mastering this feature, musicians can create more dynamic and expressive performances. Aftertouch can be found in both MIDI keyboards and drum pad controllers, and it is a powerful tool for sound design and music production.
In this article I’m going to cover the two types of midi keyboard aftertouch, channel aftertouch and polyphonic aftertouch as well as ways they are used in music production.
Key Takeaways
- Aftertouch is a MIDI message sent when pressure is applied to a key after it has been struck and while it is being held down.
- MIDI keyboard aftertouch can be used to control various parameters, such as vibrato, volume, and pitch bend.
- By mastering aftertouch, musicians can create more dynamic and expressive performances, adding depth and emotion to their music.
Table of Contents
What is MIDI Keyboard Aftertouch?
MIDI Keyboard Aftertouch is a parameter that allows a musician to control aspects of a sound by varying the pressure they apply to a key after it has been struck. This pressure is detected by the aftertouch sensor and converted into a MIDI message, which controls parameters such as volume, vibrato, or filter cutoff.
When a key is pressed on a MIDI keyboard, it sends a note message to the connected device, including information such as the pitch and velocity of the note. MIDI keyboard aftertouch adds an additional layer of expressiveness to the performance by allowing the musician to control the sound even after the initial key press.
Types of Aftertouch: Channel and Polyphonic
- Channel Aftertouch: also known as channel pressure, sends a single message for the entire keyboard, representing the highest pressure applied to any key. This message can be used to control global parameters such as volume or filter cutoff.
- Polyphonic Aftertouch: These send a separate message for each key that is pressed, allowing for individual control over each note. This type of MIDI keyboard aftertouch is more expressive and can be used to create complex modulations and effects.
Not all MIDI devices support polyphonic aftertouch, and some keyboards may have a limited number of keys that support this feature.
How MIDI Keyboard Aftertouch Works
MIDI keyboard aftertouch is a MIDI message that is sent when pressure is applied to a key after it has been struck and while it is being held down or sustained. It is often used to control vibrato, volume, and other parameters, adding a new level of expression and nuance to performances.
Mechanism of Action
When a key is pressed on a MIDI keyboard, the keyboard sends a MIDI message that includes the note number, velocity, and channel.
Aftertouch is activated when the player applies pressure to the key while it is still depressed. The pressure is measured by sensors in the keyboard, which send a MIDI message that includes the aftertouch value.
Aftertouch can be either channel aftertouch or polyphonic aftertouch. Channel aftertouch sends the same value to all notes on a particular MIDI channel, while polyphonic aftertouch sends a separate value for each note that is being held down.
Interpreting MIDI Data
MIDI keyboard aftertouch data can be interpreted in a number of ways, depending on the specific MIDI device and software being used. For example, it can be used to control the cutoff frequency of a low pass filter, creating a brighter sound as pressure is applied to the key. It can also be used to control the amount of vibrato or other effects applied to a note.
When interpreting aftertouch data, it is important to consider the range of values that the keyboard is capable of sending. Some keyboards may only send a limited range of aftertouch values, while others may be capable of sending a wide range of values that can be used to create subtle variations in sound.
Role of Aftertouch in Sound Design
Modulation and Expression
Aftertouch on a MIDI keyboard can be a powerful tool for sound designers to add modulation and expression to their sounds. By applying pressure to the keys after they have been struck, the player can send MIDI data to control parameters such as pitch, volume, filter cutoff, and more. This can be particularly useful for creating dynamic and evolving sounds that respond to the player’s touch.
For example, a sound designer could use MIDI keyboard aftertouch to add vibrato to a sustained note, or to gradually increase the filter cutoff as the player applies more pressure to the keys. By mapping aftertouch to different parameters, the player can add a level of expression and nuance to their performances that would be difficult to achieve with static sounds.
Realism and Emotion
In addition to adding modulation and expression, aftertouch can also be used to add realism and emotion to sounds. By mimicking the way a real instrument responds to the player’s touch, aftertouch can help to create more convincing and emotive performances.
For example, a pianist might press down harder on the keys to add emphasis to a particular note or phrase. By mapping MIDI keyboard aftertouch to control the volume or velocity of a sound, the player can recreate this effect and add a sense of realism to their performance.
Similarly, aftertouch can be used to add emotion to a performance by allowing the player to add subtle variations in pitch, volume, or expression. By mapping aftertouch to different parameters, the player can create a more nuanced and expressive performance that conveys a wider range of emotions.
Aftertouch in Midi Controllers
Aftertouch is a MIDI message that is sent to the MIDI controller when pressure is applied to the key after it has been struck and while it is being held down or sustained. This feature allows the user to create additional sounds like vibrations, tremolo, bend, volume, or any parameters that are set on the MIDI controller. MIDI keyboard aftertouch is a great way to add expression and dynamics to your playing.
Choosing the Right Midi Controller
When choosing a MIDI controller with aftertouch, it is important to consider the number of keys and the type of keys on the controller. Some MIDI controllers have semi-weighted keys, while others have fully weighted keys. Additionally, it is important to consider the number of pads and faders on the controller, as well as the overall build quality.
Notable Midi Controllers with Aftertouch
There are several notable MIDI controllers with aftertouch available on the market. One of the most popular is the Novation Impulse, which comes in a range of sizes from 25 to 61 keys. The Impulse features semi-weighted keys, assignable faders, knobs, and pads, as well as aftertouch.
Another popular MIDI controller with aftertouch is the Akai Professional MPK249. The MPK249 is a 49-key MIDI controller with semi-weighted keys and aftertouch. It features assignable faders, knobs, and pads, as well as a built-in arpeggiator and MPC-style drum pads.
MIDI Keyboard Aftertouch in Music Production
Aftertouch is a MIDI feature that allows a keyboardist to apply pressure to a key after it has been struck. This pressure can be used to control various parameters, such as pitch, sustain, modulation, volume, filter, and expression. In music production, aftertouch can be a powerful tool for adding nuance and expression to a performance.
Using Aftertouch in DAWs
Most modern DAWs support MIDI keyboard aftertouch, allowing you to use it to control various parameters in real-time. For example, you can use aftertouch to control the filter cutoff frequency, adding a subtle or dramatic sweep to your sound. You can also use aftertouch to control the volume or pan of a track, adding dynamic changes to your mix.
In some DAWs, such as Pro Tools, you can use aftertouch as an automation parameter, allowing you to record and edit aftertouch data just like any other automation data. This can be a powerful way to add expressive changes to your mix, without having to manually adjust every parameter.
Practical Applications
There are many practical applications for aftertouch in music production. For example, you can use MIDI keyboard aftertouch to add vibrato to a sustained note, or to add a subtle pitch bend to a melody. You can also use aftertouch to add a tremolo effect, or to control the attack or release of a sound.
Another practical application of aftertouch is to control the level of reverb or delay on a track. By applying more pressure to a key, you can increase the amount of reverb or delay, creating a more spacious and atmospheric sound.
Mastering Aftertouch
Developing the Skill
Mastering aftertouch on a MIDI keyboard is a skill that requires practice and patience. It involves applying pressure to the keys after they have been struck, and while they are being held down or sustained. This pressure can be used to control various parameters such as vibrato, volume, and other effects.
To develop the skill of aftertouch, musicians should start by practicing on a keyboard that has built-in aftertouch capabilities. Begin by playing a simple melody or chord progression and experiment with applying different levels of pressure to the keys. Start with light pressure and gradually increase the pressure to see how it affects the sound.
It is important to note that MIDI keyboard aftertouch is not the same as velocity. Velocity is the speed at which a key is pressed, while aftertouch is the pressure applied after the key has been struck. By mastering aftertouch, musicians can add a new level of expression and nuance to their performances.
Experimenting with Aftertouch
Once the skill of MIDI keyboard aftertouch has been developed, musicians can experiment with using it to control different parameters. For example, aftertouch can be used to add vibrato to a note or to control the volume of a sustained note.
By programming the aftertouch response of their MIDI keyboard, musicians can create more dynamic and emotive music. Experiment with different aftertouch settings to find the ones that work best for your playing style.
It is also important to note that MIDI keyboard aftertouch can be used in conjunction with other MIDI messages such as pitch bend and modulation. By combining these messages, musicians can create complex and expressive performances.
Final Thoughts
Aftertouch is a powerful feature that can add a new level of expression and nuance to your performances on a MIDI keyboard. It allows you to control various parameters such as vibrato, volume, filter cutoff, and more by applying pressure to the keys after they have been struck and while they are being held down.
There are two types of aftertouch: channel aftertouch and polyphonic aftertouch. Channel aftertouch affects all notes being played on a specific MIDI channel, while polyphonic aftertouch allows you to control the parameters of each individual note.
To use MIDI keyboard aftertouch, you need a MIDI keyboard that supports it. Many modern MIDI keyboards come with aftertouch capabilities, and some even allow you to customize the aftertouch response to your liking.
If you’re looking to add more expression and dynamics to your music, MIDI keyboard aftertouch is definitely worth exploring. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced musician, it can take your performances to the next level and help you create more emotive and dynamic music.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is polyphonic aftertouch on a MIDI keyboard?
Polyphonic aftertouch is a feature that allows you to apply pressure to individual keys on a MIDI keyboard, which can produce different effects for each key. This is different from monophonic aftertouch, which applies the same effect to all keys on the keyboard. Polyphonic aftertouch can be useful for adding expression and nuance to your playing, and is available on some MIDI keyboards.
What is the difference between aftertouch and velocity on a MIDI keyboard?
Velocity is a measure of how hard you strike a key on a MIDI keyboard, while aftertouch is a measure of how much pressure you apply to a key after it has been struck. Velocity is used to control the volume and intensity of a sound, while aftertouch can be used to add modulation effects like vibrato, pitch bend, or filter cutoff. Both velocity and aftertouch can be used to add expression to your playing, and many MIDI keyboards support both features.
Which MIDI keyboards have the best aftertouch capabilities?
The quality of aftertouch on a MIDI keyboard can vary depending on the keyboard’s design and construction. Some keyboards have more sensitive and responsive aftertouch than others, and some keyboards have polyphonic aftertouch while others only have monophonic aftertouch. Some popular MIDI keyboards with good aftertouch capabilities include the ROLI Seaboard, the Korg Kronos, and the Arturia KeyLab.
Is aftertouch necessary for playing MIDI keyboards?
Aftertouch is not strictly necessary for playing MIDI keyboards, but it can add a lot of expressiveness and nuance to your playing. If you are interested in adding modulation effects like vibrato or pitch bend to your playing, or if you want to play with more dynamic range and expression, then aftertouch can be a useful feature to have.
How do you use aftertouch on a MIDI keyboard?
To use aftertouch on a MIDI keyboard, you need to apply pressure to a key after it has been struck. This can be done by pressing down harder on the key, or by sliding your finger up and down the key to vary the pressure. Aftertouch can be used to control a variety of modulation effects, such as vibrato, pitch bend, or filter cutoff, depending on how the keyboard is configured.
What does MIDI aftertouch do?
MIDI aftertouch is a MIDI message that is sent when pressure is applied to a key on a MIDI keyboard after it has been struck. This message can be used to control a variety of modulation effects, such as vibrato, pitch bend, or filter cutoff, depending on how the keyboard is configured. MIDI aftertouch can be a useful feature for adding expression and nuance to your playing, and is supported by many MIDI keyboards.
