A MIDI message is typically 1-3 bytes long:
*Status Byte: Defines the message type (e.g., Note On) and channel (1-16). Status bytes begin with a '1' as their most significant bit.*Data Bytes: Provide specifics (e.g., note number, velocity). Data bytes begin with a '0' as their most significant bit.
The 16-channel system lets one controller command multiple devices or voices independently. For example, Channel 1 could trigger a drum kit while Channel 2 plays a bassline.