A collection of MIDI data for the performance of a single instrument, synthesizer, etc., that is separate from any other MIDI device.
MIDI Clock MIDI Control Change
The MIDI specification provides for sixteen channels for the transmission and reception of data. This is equivalent to the system used by television, where each broadcast station transmits over a different channel frequency; your television set must then be set to the same channel to receive the signal. A specific bit (digital number) in the MIDI data stream defines the channel over which the data is being transmitted. MIDI Clock - A special MIDI message that specifies the tempo of a MIDI sequence. 24 MIDI clocks are output during each quarter note. (See "Sequencer" and "Synchronization")
A discrete portion of the complete MIDI signal that can include as many as 16 channels. Each channel carries independent messages; individual instruments tune in to these, just as a television tunes in to one of many channels. Instruments that can respond to multiple channels at once are called MULTITIMBRAL.
Most MIDI instruments ( synthesizers and sound modules) are capable of generating multiple sounds (instruments) at the same time. Each of these instrument can be assigned to their own channels. The basic MIDI synth has 1 port = 16 channels, but there are also 32 and 64 channel synths available. Channels can be considered as parts in a music score or instruments in an orchestra, or as separate tracks in recording. MIDI sequencers can take advantage of multiple channels, and even multiple synthesizers, creating complex arrangements for bands, even for a large symphonic orchestra.
This is a channel is a path for passing data. In MIDI, channels are used to separate different sections of a song that are going to play together. Each channel is assigned to a single instrument in any particular instant of time. One channel is usually reserved for a percussion voice. To channelize means to move to another channel.
Any one of 16 pathways that the MIDI standard provides for the transmission and reception of data. The number of the channel over which MIDI data should be transmitted is specified by a number in the MIDI data stream.