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Ableton MCP Extended

by zabolotniydj

create_arrangement_midi_clip

Create an empty MIDI clip in the Ableton Live arrangement view. Specify track index and start/end positions in bars or beats to define the clip's placement and length.

Instructions

Create an empty MIDI clip in the arrangement.

Parameters:

  • track_index: Track number (1-based).

  • start_bar: Start bar (1-based). Takes precedence over start_beat.

  • end_bar: End bar (1-based). Used with start_bar to compute length.

  • start_beat: Start position in beats.

  • length_beats: Clip length in beats.

  • name: Optional clip name.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
nameNo
end_barNo
start_barNo
start_beatNo
track_indexYes
length_beatsNo

Output Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
resultYes
Behavior2/5

Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?

No annotations are provided, so the description must carry the full burden of behavioral disclosure. It only says 'create an empty MIDI clip' without explaining whether it overwrites existing clips, requires a MIDI track, or any other side effects. The parameter hints about positioning but not behavioral consequences.

Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.

Conciseness5/5

Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?

The description is concise with a single purpose sentence and a structured parameter list. No wasted words; the information is front-loaded and easy to scan.

Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.

Completeness3/5

Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?

The description covers parameter semantics well, and an output schema exists, but it lacks usage context (e.g., when to use vs alternatives, what happens to existing clips, whether notes can be added later). For a tool with six parameters in a complex DAW environment, more contextual guidance would be beneficial.

Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.

Parameters4/5

Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?

The schema has zero descriptions, so the tool description compensates with clear explanations for each parameter, including 1-based indexing and precedence rules (start_bar takes precedence over start_beat). This adds significant value beyond the bare schema titles and defaults.

Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.

Purpose4/5

Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?

The description clearly states the tool creates an empty MIDI clip in the arrangement, which differentiates it from audio clip creation (create_arrangement_audio_clip) and generic clip creation (create_clip). However, it does not explicitly mention these alternatives or exclusions, so it's not a 5.

Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.

Usage Guidelines2/5

Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?

The description gives no guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives like create_arrangement_audio_clip or create_clip. It also lacks any mention of prerequisites (e.g., MIDI track must exist) or when not to use it. The parameter list implies usage but does not provide context.

Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.

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