Tom Lear recently suggested the use of a computer program called
PowerTracks when editing MIDI files.  I, too, have been a frequent user
of this program, particularly for "imprinting" identification data on
the MIDI file, such as its tune title, originator, editor, etc.

If it's intended to be a "piano sound" (such as a scanned piano roll),
then it's wise to initialize the patch to "grand piano".  Since some
synthesizers do not automatically default to the piano sound, you
might be listening to a piano selection sounding like a flute or
saxophone.  Downloadable MIDI files which originated as scanned rolls
usually don't have this initialization built in.

In the case of orchestrated MIDI files, you can analyze the individual
tracks (flutes, strings, drums, etc.) by using PowerTracks.
In addition, playback tempo can be adjusted throughout the file or in
selected areas.  This is handy for the critical listener, because
scanned piano rolls often have no compensation for paper buildup, and
the playback seems to slow down toward the end of the tune.

There are other musical utilities, such as WindJammer and CakeWalk,
which, I believe, can perform the same functions.

Bill Flynt
11815 Woodbridge Dr.
Dallas, TX 75243
972/644-2493 home
214/929-7625 cell