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MMD Example Library

Comprehensive example library demonstrating all MIDI Markdown features.

Quick Start

# Compile any example to MIDI
mmdc compile examples/00_basics/01_hello_world.mmd

# Play back with TUI
mmdc play examples/00_basics/01_hello_world.mmd --port "IAC Driver"

# View events as table
mmdc compile examples/00_basics/01_hello_world.mmd --format table

# Export to CSV for analysis
mmdc compile examples/02_midi_features/02_cc_automation.mmd --format csv -o events.csv

Categories

🎵 00_basics/ - Start Here

Perfect for first-time users. Learn fundamental MMD concepts.

  • 01_hello_world.mmd - Absolute minimum MMD file (3 notes)
  • 02_minimal_midi.mmd - Basic MIDI commands (note_on, note_off, cc, pc)
  • 03_simple_click_track.mmd - Metronome pattern with tempo
  • 04_song_structure_markers.mmd - Text markers for song sections

Start with: 01_hello_world.mmd

⏱️ 01_timing/ - Timing Paradigms

Master MML's four timing systems.

  • 01_tempo_changes.mmd - Dynamic tempo automation
  • 02_musical_timing.mmd - Bars.beats.ticks timing with time signatures
  • 03_timing_paradigms.mmd - All four timing modes demonstrated
  • 04_relative_timing.mmd - Relative delta timing patterns

Learn about: Absolute time, musical time, relative deltas, simultaneous events

🎹 02_midi_features/ - MIDI Commands

Complete MIDI 1.0 command coverage.

  • 01_multi_channel_basic.mmd - Multiple MIDI channels
  • 02_cc_automation.mmd - Control change messages (filter, volume, pan)
  • 03_pitch_bend_pressure.mmd - Pitch bend and channel pressure
  • 04_system_messages.mmd - SysEx and system messages
  • 05_bass_line.mmd - Bass patterns and rhythms
  • 06_chord_progressions.mmd - Simultaneous notes for chords
  • 07_drums_and_percussion.mmd - GM drum map (channel 10)
  • 08_midi_clock.mmd - MIDI clock and transport control
  • 09_pitch_bend_modulation.mmd - Advanced pitch bend techniques with curves and envelopes

Covers: Note on/off, CC, PC, pitch bend, aftertouch, SysEx, MIDI clock, drums, chords, modulation

🚀 03_advanced/ - Advanced Features

Power features for complex compositions.

  • 01_loops_and_patterns.mmd - @loop directive for repetition
  • 02_sweep_automation.mmd - @sweep for parameter ramping
  • 03_alias_showcase.mmd - Complete alias system demonstration
  • 04_computed_values.mmd - Computed values and expressions
  • 05_arpeggiator.mmd - Arpeggio patterns with loops
  • 06_polyrhythm.mmd - Complex rhythmic patterns
  • 07_modulation_and_expression.mmd - CC automation techniques
  • 08_modulation_showcase.mmd - Advanced modulation (curves, waves, envelopes)
  • 09_generative_pattern.mmd - Variables and computed values
  • 10_comprehensive_song.mmd - All features combined
  • 11_multi_file_project.mmd - Organizing large projects with imports and modules
  • 12_common_mistakes.mmd - Debugging guide with intentional errors and fixes
  • 13_performance_comparison.mmd - Optimized vs naive implementations

Master: Loops, sweeps, aliases, variables, expressions, automation, project organization, optimization, modulation

🎲 05_generative/ - Generative & Random Techniques

Create evolving, non-repetitive music using random() expressions and wave modulation.

  • 01_random_humanization.mmd - Add natural variations to MIDI with random velocity, note selection, and CC values
  • 02_algorithmic_drums.mmd - Professional drum patterns using random velocity, ghost notes, and polyrhythms
  • 03_generative_ambient.mmd - Evolving pad textures with random notes and LFO modulation
  • 04_random_cc_automation.mmd - Generative parameter automation for filters, resonance, pan, and expression
  • 05_evolving_textures.mmd - Complex layered textures with multiple randomization sources
  • 06_scale_constrained_melody.mmd - Generative melodies constrained to musical scales

Techniques: Random velocity, random note ranges, random CC values, wave modulation, layered randomization, humanization, scale constraints

🎸 04_device_libraries/ - Hardware Control

Real-world device control examples.

  • 01_device_import.mmd - @import device libraries
  • 02_quad_cortex_live_set.mmd - Neural DSP Quad Cortex presets
  • 03_h90_preset_automation.mmd - Eventide H90 automation
  • 04_helix_song_switching.mmd - Line 6 Helix snapshots
  • 05_hx_stomp_pedalboard.mmd - HX Stomp setlist
  • 06_live_performance_aliases.mmd - Multi-device live performance
  • 07_hx_effects_live.mmd - HX Effects live performance automation
  • 08_hx_stomp_xl_set.mmd - HX Stomp XL complete setlist
  • 09_multi_device_orchestration.mmd - Coordinating multiple devices in a single performance

Devices: Quad Cortex, H90, Helix, HX Stomp, HX Effects, HX Stomp XL

📚 06_tutorials/ - Step-by-Step Learning

Progressive 4-part tutorial series.

  • 01_melody.mmd - Part 1: Simple melody
  • 02_chords.mmd - Part 2: Add chord accompaniment
  • 03_drums.mmd - Part 3: Add drum track
  • 04_full_song.mmd - Part 4: Complete production

Follow in order for comprehensive learning path.

Example Count by Category

Category Count Difficulty
Basics 4 Beginner
Timing 4 Beginner
MIDI Features 9 Beginner-Intermediate
Advanced 13 Intermediate-Advanced
Generative 6 Intermediate-Advanced
Device Libraries 9 Intermediate
Tutorials 4 Beginner → Advanced
TOTAL 49 All levels

Running Examples

All examples are fully compilable and playable:

# Compile all examples
for file in examples/**/*.mmd; do
  mmdc compile "$file" -o output/$(basename "$file" .mmd).mid
done

# Validate all examples
mmdc validate examples/**/*.mmd

# Play an example
mmdc play examples/06_tutorials/04_full_song.mmd

Learning Paths

📚 Beginner Track (Core Features)

  1. Start Here: 00_basics/01_hello_world.mmd - Understand basic structure
  2. Learn Timing: 00_basics/02_minimal_midi.mmd - See how timing works
  3. Add Commands: 00_basics/03_simple_click_track.mmd - Repeated patterns
  4. Structure Songs: 00_basics/04_song_structure_markers.mmd - Organize with markers
  5. Automation: 02_midi_features/02_cc_automation.mmd - Control parameters over time
  6. Multiple Channels: 02_midi_features/01_multi_channel_basic.mmd - Multi-instrument songs
  7. Full Example: 03_advanced/10_comprehensive_song.mmd - Everything together

🚀 Advanced Track (Power Features)

  1. Loops: 03_advanced/01_loops_and_patterns.mmd - Eliminate repetitive code with @loop
  2. Automation: 03_advanced/02_sweep_automation.mmd - Smooth parameter changes with @sweep
  3. Musical Time: 01_timing/02_musical_timing.mmd - Work in bars/beats/ticks
  4. Timing Paradigms: 01_timing/03_timing_paradigms.mmd - Master all timing modes
  5. Random Humanization: 05_generative/01_random_humanization.mmd - Natural variations with random() expressions
  6. Generative Ambient: 05_generative/03_generative_ambient.mmd - Evolving pads with random notes and LFO
  7. Device Control: 04_device_libraries/01_device_import.mmd - High-level device commands with @import
  8. Multi-File Projects: 03_advanced/11_multi_file_project.mmd - Organize large projects

🎸 Alias System (Advanced Abstraction)

  1. Alias Basics: 03_advanced/03_alias_showcase.mmd - Complete alias system tour
  2. Real-World: 04_device_libraries/06_live_performance_aliases.mmd - Production-ready performance automation

🎼 Musical Examples (Inspiration)

  1. Drums: 02_midi_features/07_drums_and_percussion.mmd - GM drum patterns
  2. Algorithmic Drums: 05_generative/02_algorithmic_drums.mmd - Professional drum pattern generation
  3. Bass: 02_midi_features/05_bass_line.mmd - Groove patterns
  4. Chords: 02_midi_features/06_chord_progressions.mmd - Harmonic ideas
  5. Arpeggios: 03_advanced/05_arpeggiator.mmd - Arpeggiator patterns
  6. Polyrhythm: 03_advanced/06_polyrhythm.mmd - Complex rhythms
  7. CC Automation: 05_generative/04_random_cc_automation.mmd - Generative parameter modulation
  8. Evolving Textures: 05_generative/05_evolving_textures.mmd - Complex layered soundscapes
  9. Scale Melodies: 05_generative/06_scale_constrained_melody.mmd - Musical scale constraints

Feature Highlights

🔄 Loops (@loop)

The @loop feature eliminates repetitive code:

Before (manual repetition): 

- note_on 1.42 100 0.1s
[+1b]
- note_on 1.42 100 0.1s
[+1b]
- note_on 1.42 100 0.1s
[+1b]
# ... repeat 13 more times

After (using @loop): 

@loop 16 times every 1b
  - note_on 1.42 100 0.1s
@end

See: 03_advanced/01_loops_and_patterns.mmd

📊 Sweeps (@sweep)

The @sweep feature creates smooth automation:

# Fade volume from 0 to 127 over 4 seconds with ease-in curve
@sweep cc 1.7 from 00:00.000 to 00:04.000 every 100ms
  ramp ease-in from 0 to 127
@end

Supports 6 ramp types: linear, exponential, logarithmic, ease-in, ease-out, ease-in-out

See: 03_advanced/02_sweep_automation.mmd

🎲 Random & Generative (random())

The random() function adds natural variation to melodies, velocity, and parameters:

# Random velocity (60-100) for humanization
- note_on 1.C4 random(60,100) 0.5b

# Random note selection from range
- note_on 1.random(C4,G4) 80 0.5b

# Random CC values for evolving automation
- cc 1.74.random(50,90)

# In loops for continuous variation
@loop 8 times at [00:16.000] every 0.25b
  - cc 1.74.random(40,100)
@end

Perfect for humanization, generative music, evolving pad textures, and algorithmic patterns

See: 05_generative/01_random_humanization.mmd, 05_generative/03_generative_ambient.mmd, 05_generative/04_random_cc_automation.mmd

🎵 Musical Timing

Musical time keeps events in musical position:

[1.1.0]    # Bar 1, Beat 1, Tick 0
[1.2.0]    # Bar 1, Beat 2
[1.3.120]  # Bar 1, Beat 3, Tick 120 (16th note subdivision)

Benefits: tempo-independent, time signature aware, DAW-compatible

See: 01_timing/02_musical_timing.mmd

📦 Device Imports (@import)

Device libraries provide high-level control:

@import "devices/quad_cortex.mmd"

# Instead of: cc 1.32.2; cc 1.0.0; pc 1.5
# Use readable command:
- cortex_load 1.2.0.5  # Load setlist 2, scene 0, preset 5

Available libraries: Neural DSP Quad Cortex, Eventide H90, Line 6 Helix, HX Stomp, HX Effects, HX Stomp XL

See: 04_device_libraries/01_device_import.mmd

Feature Coverage

Feature Examples Status
Timing (Absolute) All examples ✅ Complete
Timing (Musical) 02_musical_timing, 03_timing_paradigms ✅ Complete
Timing (Relative) Most examples, 04_relative_timing ✅ Complete
Timing (All Modes) 03_timing_paradigms ✅ Complete
Note Commands 01-04, bass, chords, drums ✅ Complete
Control Change 02_cc_automation, modulation ✅ Complete
Program Change 01_multi_channel_basic, device examples ✅ Complete
Pitch Bend 03_pitch_bend_pressure, 09_pitch_bend_modulation ✅ Complete
Pitch Bend Modulation 09_pitch_bend_modulation ✅ Complete
Pressure/Aftertouch 03_pitch_bend_pressure ✅ Complete
MIDI Clock 08_midi_clock ✅ Complete
Meta Events 01-04 ✅ Complete
Tempo Changes 01_tempo_changes ✅ Complete
Markers 04_song_structure_markers ✅ Complete
Variables (@define) generative examples ✅ Complete
Loops (@loop) 01_loops_and_patterns, arpeggiator, polyrhythm ✅ Complete
Sweeps (@sweep) 02_sweep_automation, modulation ✅ Complete
Imports (@import) 01_device_import, 11_multi_file_project, all device examples ✅ Complete
Aliases alias_showcase, device examples ✅ Complete
Multi-Channel 01_multi_channel_basic, tutorials ✅ Complete
SysEx 04_system_messages ✅ Complete
Comments All examples ✅ Complete
Random Expressions 01_random_humanization, 02_algorithmic_drums, 03_generative_ambient, 04_random_cc_automation ✅ Complete
Wave Modulation 03_generative_ambient, 05_evolving_textures ✅ Complete
Scale Constraints 06_scale_constrained_melody ✅ Complete
Project Organization 11_multi_file_project ✅ Complete
Debugging 12_common_mistakes ✅ Complete
Performance 13_performance_comparison ✅ Complete
Multi-Device 09_multi_device_orchestration ✅ Complete

Creating Your Own

Use these examples as templates for your own MIDI automation:

  1. Copy an example that matches your use case
  2. Modify the frontmatter (title, author, etc.)
  3. Adjust timing and commands to fit your needs
  4. Test with validation: mmdc validate your_file.mmd
  5. Compile to MIDI: mmdc compile your_file.mmd -o output.mid
  6. Test in your DAW or with mmdc play

Contributing Examples

Have a cool MMD example? We welcome contributions!

Guidelines: 1. Follow existing example format (frontmatter + inline comments) 2. Place in appropriate category directory 3. Test compilation: mmdc compile your_example.mmd 4. Add descriptive comments explaining concepts 5. Update this README with your example description 6. Submit PR with description of what it demonstrates

See CONTRIBUTING.md for details.

Quick Reference

To Learn... See Example
Basic syntax 00_basics/01-02
Timing (absolute) 00_basics/01-04
Timing (musical) 01_timing/02_musical_timing
Timing (all modes) 01_timing/03_timing_paradigms
Timing (relative) 01_timing/04_relative_timing
Notes and durations 00_basics/03_simple_click_track
CC automation 02_midi_features/02_cc_automation
Tempo changes 01_timing/01_tempo_changes
Multi-channel 02_midi_features/01_multi_channel_basic
MIDI clock 02_midi_features/08_midi_clock
Pitch bend modulation 02_midi_features/09_pitch_bend_modulation
Loops 03_advanced/01_loops_and_patterns
Smooth automation 03_advanced/02_sweep_automation
Multi-file projects 03_advanced/11_multi_file_project
Debugging 03_advanced/12_common_mistakes
Performance 03_advanced/13_performance_comparison
Humanization (random) 05_generative/01_random_humanization
Algorithmic drums 05_generative/02_algorithmic_drums
Generative ambient 05_generative/03_generative_ambient
Random CC automation 05_generative/04_random_cc_automation
Evolving textures 05_generative/05_evolving_textures
Scale melodies 05_generative/06_scale_constrained_melody
Device control 04_device_libraries/01_device_import
Aliases 03_advanced/03_alias_showcase
Live performance 04_device_libraries/06_live_performance_aliases
Multi-device 04_device_libraries/09_multi_device_orchestration
Complete song 03_advanced/10_comprehensive_song
Drums 02_midi_features/07_drums_and_percussion
Bass 02_midi_features/05_bass_line
Chords 02_midi_features/06_chord_progressions
Tutorial series 06_tutorials/01-04

See Also

Additional Resources

Total Examples: 49 files across 7 categories Skill Levels: Beginner → Advanced Coverage: All MMD features demonstrated