Can someone explain midi channel assigning?

[wiz2u]

Hello, I was wondering if someone could give me an easy explanation or resource about assigning midi channels to play different instruments from my sound card. I have connected my midi keyboard to my computer through a usb port and all i get so far is drums.

 

[ssscientist]

Here are links to four good articles on midi basics.

Part one, part two, part three and part four.

Some of this will probably fall under the 'more than you need to know right now' heading, but the answer to your immediate question as well as many more will be in there...