> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.gridshift.studio/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# MIDI Input

> Connect hardware MIDI controllers and play instruments with your computer keyboard. Automatic device detection and per-track routing.

## Hardware MIDI

Gridshift automatically detects and connects to all available MIDI input devices. When you plug in a MIDI controller, it's immediately available — no configuration required.

### Supported Messages

| Message            | Description                            |
| ------------------ | -------------------------------------- |
| **Note On / Off**  | Triggers instruments and records notes |
| **Control Change** | Maps to plugin parameters              |
| **Pitch Bend**     | Pitch wheel input                      |

### Routing

MIDI input is routed to the selected instrument track. In Focus Mode, input is routed to the focused clip's instrument.

## Computer Keyboard (Musical Typing)

When an instrument track is selected or a MIDI clip is focused, your computer keyboard becomes a musical instrument. See the [Musical Typing](/shortcuts/musical-typing) page for the full keyboard layouts.

Musical Typing has three layouts, selected per-track via the **Keys Layout** picker in the Inspector:

* **Scale** — Three rows of scale degrees across 3 octaves. Only notes in the selected key/scale are played. Best for melodies and chords. Default for new instrument tracks.
* **Piano** — Chromatic piano layout with white keys on the middle row and black keys on the upper row, across 2 octaves.
* **Drums** — 26 sequential chromatic pads across Y/Z…P, with Y/Z mapped to MIDI 36 (General MIDI Bass Drum). Automatically selected when you load a drum plugin.

All layouts support:

* Octave shifting via Command Palette ("Musical Typing: Octave Up/Down")
* Velocity control
* Real-time recording and step entry

## Instrument Tracks

To use MIDI input for playing and recording:

<Steps>
  <Step title="Create an instrument track (Command Palette → Add Instrument Track)" />

  <Step title="Assign an Audio Unit instrument in the Inspector" />

  <Step title="Select the track — MIDI input is now routed to it" />

  <Step title="Play your controller or use Musical Typing" />
</Steps>

The piano roll in the Inspector highlights keys as they are played, providing visual feedback during performance.