Every MIDI file on this site has been created or "sequenced" using up-to-date releases of NoteWorthy Composer, and is then fine-tuned to sound as pleasant and realistic as possible through my SoundBlaster card and Creative Labs speakers.
Because there are many different systems for playing MIDI files, and many different manufacturers of sound cards, I have no way of knowing how my creations will actually sound to you. On another system, the so-called Voice Oohs and Synth Voice patches may sound acceptable, but I don't use them because in my opinion the SoundBlaster hardware produces a less realistic sound for these particular voices. For all my choral work, I therefore use what is termed Choir Aahs, and while there will always be some people who aren't impressed by the result, it's the best I can do in the present circumstances.
These MIDI files of Victorian and Edwardian shows are derived from old vocal scores and use the Acoustic Grand Piano throughout. I make no attempt at orchestration, other than to use the occasional Tubular Bell where indicated, and sometimes to support a long bass note with the added use of a Contrabass. However, I try to allocate a suitable orchestral instrument for each solo character, and to use it consistently throughout the show.
One may well criticise MIDI files for sounding too mechanical, but I do my best to vary the dynamic volume and the tempo where appropriate, and strive for as close a match to a live performance as the system will allow. It's by no means perfect, and is certainly no substitute for the real thing, but at least a MIDI performance can offer a reasonably good facsimile and thus give you a glimpse of how these old shows once sounded.
It is for this reason that I don't seek to include popular shows for which good live recordings already exist. My aim is to offer the music of shows that are long forgotten, and which in my opinion are worth rescuing from undeserved obscurity.
Your suggestions for future projects are always welcome.
Back to my Front Page Victorian/Edwardian musicals Some of my own music