MIDI

MIDI functionality

JustChords offers comprehensive MIDI support that allows you to send MIDI messages when songs load, sections change, or other events occur. This powerful feature lets you automate and control external MIDI devices such as synthesizers, drum machines, guitar processors, lighting systems and more directly from your setlist.

MIDI in songs

Each song can have its own set of MIDI commands that are triggered when the song is displayed or when specific events occur.

Viewing MIDI messages

To see what MIDI messages are assigned to a song:

1. Open the song in the Song Viewer.
2. Tap MIDI (when the song is displayed).
3. Tap Message to view the current MIDI messages assigned to this song.

This shows you all the MIDI commands that will be sent when the song loads or during playback.

Managing MIDI messages

To add, edit or remove MIDI messages:

1. Open the song in the Song Viewer.
2. Tap MIDI.
3. Tap Manage to access the MIDI editor.

In the MIDI editor you can:

• Add new MIDI messages manually or by capturing them from a connected device.
• Edit existing MIDI commands.
• Remove MIDI messages you no longer need.
• Save your configuration so the song automatically sends these commands when loaded.

Connecting Bluetooth MIDI devices

JustChords supports Bluetooth MIDI devices for both input (receiving MIDI messages from controllers) and output (sending MIDI commands to devices).

To add a Bluetooth MIDI device:

1. Go to Settings → MIDI/Bluetooth/Triggers.
2. Select MIDI pedal/controller.
3. Add your Bluetooth MIDI device from the list of available devices.

Once connected, you can capture MIDI messages directly from your device and assign them to songs or use them as triggers for actions within JustChords.

MIDI use cases

MIDI integration in JustChords enables many creative and professional workflows:

• Automated patch changes – Switch sounds on synthesizers and guitar processors when a song loads.
• Drum machine control – Start backing tracks or change patterns automatically.
• Lighting control – Trigger lighting cues synchronized with your setlist.
• Multi-device synchronization – Control bass players, synths, and other MIDI-enabled gear from one central setlist.
• Foot controller input – Use MIDI foot pedals to navigate songs, transpose or trigger projection sections.

For a real-world example, see how Greg from Seattle uses MIDI messages to control his entire band setup from JustChords: Greg's MIDI story

Advanced MIDI settings

For a detailed list of existing MIDI commands and configuration options:

1. Go to Settings → MIDI/Bluetooth/Triggers.
2. Select MIDI pedal/controller.

Here you can:

• View all configured MIDI devices.
• See the full list of MIDI commands available in JustChords.
• Configure triggers and actions based on incoming MIDI messages.
• Fine-tune MIDI message timing and behavior.

This deep MIDI integration makes JustChords not just a chord sheet viewer, but a complete control hub for your live performance rig.