- Using Finale's MIDI Tool to create mod-wheel controller changes.
Drumline 2 contains several instruments that make use of the
mod-wheel to control various features and sound changes. This
can be a very powerful way of accessing sounds without having
to load several versions of the same instrument. To activate
mod-wheel changes from Finale, you don't physically "move"
the mod-wheel, but rather program a controller change into your
score. By doing this, Finale will essentially "perform"
the mod-wheel change when they occur. You can use the MIDI
Tool in Finale to set these program changes. Below
is an example of how this would be done. Read through the steps,
then watch the video to see them in action.
Start by writing a basic part for a Mod-wheel controllable instrument.
In this case, we're using Timpani Med (MW).
Before adding mod-wheel changes, this will simply sound like
To add mod-wheel changes, select the MIDI Tool, and drag your
mouse over the phrase you wish to program.
Double-click the first measure of your selection. This opens
the MIDI TOOL window.
In this window, you'll see several tool buttons in a vertical
column on the left. Refer to your Finale user's manual to learn
more about the features of each. You'll want to use the Continuous
Data tool (looks like a little slider). When you click
this tool, the View Continuous Data window
In the Controller field, either type in the
number "1" (for mod-wheel), or simply
use the pulldown menu to select Modulation.
Then click OK.
Drag a selection above the measures to indicate where you want
the controller change to begin.
Go to the MIDI Tool menu and select "Set
To." Enter a mod-wheel value between 1 (down) and 127 (up),
then click OK.
Repeat steps 6-7 for any further controller changes you wish
When you are finished, close the MIDI Tool Window, and playback.
You should now hear the mod-wheel calling up the correct sound
Click here to watch the video and
see this process in action.