README

Midi_Programming

A Delphi/Pascal implementation of the iconic "Want You Gone" credits from Portal 2. This project uses the Windows Multimedia API (Winapi.MMSystem) to orchestrate MIDI playback and synchronized terminal-style lyrics, mimicking the Aperture Science computer systems.

Overview

This project demonstrates how to bridge the gap between MIDI data and console-based UI. By extracting note data and syncing it with a high-precision stopwatch, we've recreated the clinical, synthesized feel of GLaDOS's final farewell.

The 4-Step Process

Coding can be fun! This project was built using a streamlined workflow:

1. The Extractor: Run the MIDI extractor program to convert a standard .mid file into a Pascal-compatible array of TMidiEvent records.
2. The Player: Load that generated array into the playback engine.
3. Instrument Selection: Swap standard MIDI patches for "Sci-Fi" leads. I found that Program 80 (Square Wave) provides the perfect 8-bit, synthesized vocal quality.
4. Lyric Syncing: Map the lyrics to an array with absolute millisecond timestamps to ensure the text rolls out in perfect time with the melody.

Requirements

• Compiler: Embarcadero Delphi (or any compatible Pascal compiler).
• OS: Windows (requires Winapi.MMSystem for MIDI output).
• MIDI Device: The system "Microsoft GS Wavetable Synth" or any MIDI mapper.

Usage

1. Compile WantYouGone.dpr.
2. Run the executable.
3. Observe Notice of Dismissal in the terminal.

Forms FORM-29827281-12-2:
Notice of Dismissal

 >> Well here we are again
 >> It's always such a pleasure...

See? Coding can be fun. Now you try...