Recommended workflow for live MIDI section changes?

[Rush2112]

Hi Arlo!

I'm designing a live looping rig using BandHelper with a Fractal FM9, Boss RC-600, Roland HPD-20, and eventually a Roland Juno.

For each song, I'd like to attach multiple MIDI presets such as:

Intro
Verse
Chorus
Verse
Chorus
Bridge
Solo
Ending

I found your 2018 forum post where you mentioned assigning a footswitch to Next MIDI Preset, or assigning buttons to specific preset positions. That seems very close to the workflow I'm hoping to build.

My question is:

If I want to control these section changes from my FM9 footswitches (instead of touching the iPad), is the intended BandHelper workflow to use App Control with incoming MIDI messages (CCs or PCs) to trigger "Next MIDI Preset" or specific MIDI preset positions? Or would you recommend a different approach?

I'm not using backing tracks or automation timelines—I'm performing live with loops and need to decide in real time whether to repeat a verse, extend a chorus, etc.

Also, can incoming MIDI messages from an external controller (such as the FM9) trigger the App Control actions for "Next MIDI Preset" or specific preset positions?

I'm trying to follow the workflow BandHelper was designed for rather than force it into a different architecture.

Thanks very much for any guidance.

Wayne

[arlo]

If I want to control these section changes from my FM9 footswitches (instead of touching the iPad), is the intended BandHelper workflow to use App Control with incoming MIDI messages (CCs or PCs) to trigger "Next MIDI Preset" or specific MIDI preset positions?

Yes. You will need to use control changes, not program changes, to trigger actions like Next MIDI Preset.

Also, can incoming MIDI messages from an external controller (such as the FM9) trigger the App Control actions for "Next MIDI Preset" or specific preset positions?

Yes. Instructions are here:

https://www.bandhelper.com/tutorials/app_control.html#midi

[Rush2112]

Thank you so much for your reply, Arlo. Bandhelper is awesome!

If I connect both an FM9 and an RC-600 to my iPad through a powered USB hub, can BandHelper maintain independent two-way MIDI communication with both devices simultaneously, so the FM9 can send incoming CC messages for App Control while BandHelper independently sends outgoing MIDI presets to both devices?

Thanks so much for your help! I really appreciate you!

Wayne

[arlo]

Yes, if the MIDI devices are set to different channels, you can communicate with them independently.

And you're welcome!