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.