A file creation process,
file format and playback device are provided that enables an interactive and if desired collaborative music playback experience for the user(s) by combining or retro-fitting an ‘original song’ with a
MIDI time grid, the
MIDI score of the song and other data in a synchronized fashion. The invention enables a music interaction platform that requires a small amount of time to learn and very little skill, knowledge or talent to use and is designed to bring ‘mixing music’ to the average person. The premiere capability that the
file format provides, is the capability for any two bars, multiples of bars or pre-designated ‘parts’ from any two songs to be mixed in both tempo and bar by bar synchronization in a non-linear
drag and drop fashion (and therefore almost instantaneously). The
file format provides many further interaction capabilities however such a remixing
MIDI tracks from the original song back in with the song. In the preferable embodiment the playback means is a
software application on a handheld portable device which utilizes a multitouch-screen
user interface, such as an iPhone. A single user can musically interact with the device and associated ‘original songs’ etc or interactively collaborate with other users in like fashion, either whilst in the same room or over
the Internet. The advanced inter-active functionality the file format enables in combination with the unique features of the iPhone (as a playback device), such as the multitouch-screen and
accelerometer, enable furthered intuitive and enhanced music interaction capabilities. The object of the invention is to make music interaction (mixing for example) a regular activity for the average person.