Edit MIDI Faster: Workflow with BRELS MIDI Editor

BRELS MIDI Editor: Complete Guide for Beginners

What it is

BRELS MIDI Editor is a desktop application for creating, editing, and arranging MIDI data. It focuses on streamlined piano-roll editing, velocity control, quantization, and basic MIDI mapping for external instruments and controllers.

Key features

• Piano roll editing: Draw, move, resize, and drag notes with snap-to-grid and zoom.
• Velocity lanes: Edit per-note velocity with graphical handles and numeric input.
• Quantize & swing: Multiple quantize strengths, grid resolutions, and adjustable swing.
• MIDI mapping & routing: Assign MIDI channels, map controller CCs, and route to virtual synths or external hardware.
• Import/export: Open standard MIDI files (.mid), export edited MIDI, and drag snippets between projects.
• Looping & playback: Loop regions, set tempo, and play back through system MIDI or a built-in synth preview.
• Macro tools: Batch transpose, scale quantize, humanize timing/velocity.
• Undo history & versions: Stepwise undo and saveable snapshots.

Interface overview

• Main piano roll: Central grid with a vertical keyboard on the left.
• Timeline/transport: Play, stop, record, loop markers, tempo display at top.
• Inspector panel: Note properties, channel, program change, and CC values for selected events.
• Track list: Per-track mute/solo, routing, and instrument assignment.
• Bottom lanes: Velocity, expression, pitch bend, and other CC lanes.

Basic workflow (step-by-step)

1. Create a new project or import a MIDI file.
2. Add or select a track and set its MIDI channel/instrument.
3. Use the pencil tool to draw notes in the piano roll.
4. Adjust note lengths by dragging edges; move notes by dragging.
5. Edit velocities in the velocity lane or via inspector numeric input.
6. Quantize notes: select region → choose grid → apply quantize (use percentage to retain feel).
7. Add CC data (e.g., modulation) by selecting the appropriate lane and drawing curves.
8. Route output to a virtual synth or external MIDI device; press play to audition.
9. Save or export the MIDI file when finished.

Tips for beginners

• Use a low quantize percentage (20–60%) to keep a human feel.
• Lock the grid while sketching chords, then disable it for micro-timing edits.
• Use duplicate/transpose for quickly building harmonies.
• Use snapshots before batch operations like quantize or scale changes.
• Assign common CCs to hardware knobs for hands-on control.

Common tasks & quick how-tos

• Transpose a selection: Select notes → Ctrl/Cmd + Up/Down (or drag vertically).
• Change velocity for multiple notes: Select → drag velocity handles or enter a value in Inspector.
• Create a swing feel: Select region → apply swing preset (e.g., 60–70%).
• Humanize timing: Select notes → Humanize tool → set timing/velocity jitter.
• Export a MIDI file: File → Export → MIDI (.mid).

Troubleshooting

• No sound on playback: Check track routing and MIDI output device; enable monitor or route to a virtual instrument.
• Velocities sound identical: Ensure synth responds to velocity and MIDI channel matches.
• Imported file timing off: Check project tempo and time signature; try resetting ticks-per-quarter in import settings.

Learning resources

• Start with short projects: build a 4-bar drum loop, then a simple bassline and chord progression.
• Use built-in presets and templates to study typical track setups.
• Practice with MIDI packs to learn arranging and editing techniques.

Short checklist to get started

• Install BRELS and open a new project (or import MIDI).
• Create track and set MIDI output.
• Draw a 4-bar pattern in piano roll.
• Add velocities and a CC lane (modulation).
• Quantize lightly and humanize.
• Export MIDI and test in your synth.

Date: February 5, 2026