Making programmed piano parts feel played rather than drawn

Humanising MIDI is not the same as randomising it. Real piano timing follows phrasing: melody notes may lead or settle, accompaniment patterns relate to the pulse, and chord notes rarely land with identical velocity. Random values can make the part untidy without making it expressive.

I begin by playing the part, even imperfectly, then edit while preserving the larger gestures. Where programming from scratch, I shape velocity by phrase, vary repeated notes intentionally, and use pedal data carefully so harmony remains clear. The virtual instrument’s velocity curve also needs to suit the controller and arrangement.

What edits give you the greatest improvement without overworking every note?