Grid Music 2.2 is another great update to this already powerful and versatile MIDI sequencer. Grid Music can be used to compose classic 16-step patterns, but can also create loops, random branches, and polyrhythms too. In many ways it’s more like a creative sequencing workshop.

Anyway, here’s what’s new in Grid Music:

Velocity cells (stars) change the loudness and MIDI velocity of all notes when active. If a velocity cell is set to the lowest value, it is a rest (labelled “—”). If a rest is active, note cells will not make any sound and no MIDI note messages will be sent on that step.

Use velocity cells to add dynamics to your patterns, or create variations on a sequence of notes by adding a sequence of rests with a different interval. The new “16 Step Velocity” template can be used as a starting point for this technique.

  • New: Octave Range

You can now adjust the range of note cells from 1 to 5 octaves.

  • New: Added templates featuring velocity cells.
  • Changed: The default MIDI velocity is now 80, or mezzo-forte (labelled “mf” on velocity cells).
  • Changed: The full volume of the built-in synthesizer is louder.
  • Changed: The Shift setting has a wider range, from -3 to +3 octaves.
  • Changed: Pattern Length is now called Measure Length.
  • Fixed: The Play button is now easier to tap.
  • Fixed: Playback no longer stops when deleting the current pattern (if there is one before or after to replace it).
  • Fixed: Document thumbnails would sometimes not be updated.

Grid Music is on the app store now and costs $4.99

Update: 1/5/18Just added the video below which shows velocity cells in action.