MIDI file import sets blank key signature plus accidentals

2023-06-08 03:07 pm

Hi all,
Whenever I import a MIDI file to a new score, it always sets a C major/A minor (blank) key signature and notates accidentals where required within the score. Actually is sets a cancelling natural sign on the F line. If I know, for example, that the piece should be in G major, how can I insert a G major key signature and automatically change all of the accidental F# notes to plain F?

Thanks in advance.
Bernie Haylett

Re: MIDI file import sets blank key signature plus accidentals

Reply #1 – 2023-06-08 04:24 pm

Hi Bernie,
the hidden (that's what we call greyed out symbols in NWC) natural on the F line is how NWC represents a C/Am key signature. It is possible to set up a staff with no key signature altogether but some things don't work predictably if you do this.

I just did a quick test and the MIDI file I imported came with key signature... A check online confirms that key signature information can optionally be included in a MIDI file, so I can only assume the file you're importing simply doesn't contain a key signature.

You can change the C/Am key signature to whatever you want (select and press <Alt+Enter> to get the dialogue), change it and press <Enter>.

For each staff: Fix the accidentals by using use <Alt+T> (to activate the tools menu), <A> (to select the Audit submenu), <A> (again, to perform the audit for accidentals) and it will fix 'em right up. It would pay to do a quick check in case of a glitch, but it's pretty reliable.