Channels and tracks are different

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Note and channel data

A channel addresses a logical recipient for MIDI 1.0 channel messages. A track organises events in a file or editor. One track may contain several channels, and different tracks may send to the same channel. They are not interchangeable concepts.

Shared channels or routing can explain why one part’s settings affect another. Instrument selection and channel controls are separate from note positions. Inspect actual channel assignments and sound sources as well as track names; renaming a track alone does not change protocol routing.

Example

Two tracks named piano can share one channel and respond together to channel-wide control.

Try it

Does renaming a track “Violin” automatically change its sound source?

Related topics

References

Standard MIDI Files

Subject-expert review pending.