How to switch tracks while playing MIDI controller live

How to switch instrument tracks in real time? I watched a video ad where the guy was changing between different orchestra section instruments throughout the commercial.

Is this possible in Logic Pro 11.2.2? All I could guess is that he must be changing tracks, with each orchestra section loaded in their own track. I never saw his hands leaving the keyboard keys, but maybe that was edited out or he was using a MIDI footswitch. Even so, how is this possible in Logic Pro for Mac?

Thanks in advance (TIA!),

John

Mac mini

Posted on Nov 25, 2025 7:09 AM

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yoyoBen

Level 4

3,499 points

Posted on Nov 25, 2025 12:46 PM

Not sure if I've understand you correctly, but you could simply assign a midi note or cc to an appropriate key command, like Select Next Track and Select Previous Track.

Go to Logic pro > Key command > Edit Assignments

To find more key commands, type "track" into the top right search field.

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yoyoBen

Level 4

3,499 points

Nov 25, 2025 12:46 PM in response to Johne154

Not sure if I've understand you correctly, but you could simply assign a midi note or cc to an appropriate key command, like Select Next Track and Select Previous Track.

Go to Logic pro > Key command > Edit Assignments

To find more key commands, type "track" into the top right search field.

Johne154 Author

Level 2

388 points

Nov 27, 2025 4:27 AM in response to yoyoBen

That was the first thing I looked at, Ben. That requires using the Up/Down arrow keys on the Mac keyboard.

SOLUTION: It occurred to me to try my PageFlip DragonFly 4-pedal page turner, which I use with forScore.

It sends the Up/Down arrow keystrokes from its main 2-pedals. Plugged it in and Logic asked me to confirm that it has detected a keyboard. VOILA! it worked. That's all the setup that Logic required

I thought this is a good tip to anyone needing to do the same or similar.

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How to switch tracks while playing MIDI controller live