A method and apparatus are provided for representing, storing, and
rendering audio data. An audio file enables users to store and exchange
sampled audio waveform data along with additional data used to generate
or synthesize an audio output closely approximating the original waveform
data. The audio file used to generate a piece of music may include note
events, synthesis parameters, instruments and track information, and
other information for shaping music notes, as well as playback
characteristics for emulating a desired ambiance. A rendering apparatus
may implement a process for selecting the representation of audio data
most likely to provide the best fidelity for the given playback
circumstances. The combined audio format also provides a greater degree
of compatibility for audio players with different playback capabilities.