What is MIDI Velocity?

MIDI velocity is a value in a MIDI message that represents how quickly or forcefully a note is played on a MIDI controller, such as a keyboard or drum pad. It determines the intensity of the note and often affects the volume, brightness, or expression of the sound produced.

When a musician presses a key on a MIDI keyboard, the controller measures how fast the key is struck. This information is transmitted as a velocity value along with the MIDI note message. Higher velocity values typically produce louder or more energetic sounds, while lower values create softer or more gentle notes.

In most MIDI systems, velocity values range from 0 to 127, allowing for a wide range of expressive control. Many virtual instruments and synthesizers respond to velocity by adjusting parameters such as volume, filter brightness, articulation, or sample selection.

MIDI velocity is widely used in music production and performance with digital audio workstations such as Ableton Live, FL Studio, and Logic Pro. By adjusting velocity values, producers can add dynamics and human-like expression to MIDI performances created with virtual instruments and samplers.