Music Notation Software

When buying music notation software there are many on the market but there are only a few I'd use or recommend. I'll get to these a little later.

But, just what are the advantages of using such music notation software? Obviously, if you're a teacher or a professional composer or even a music enthusiast who wants to note your own music, you're going to appreciate the flexibility and convenience that these programs can give you.

For instance, the formatting is mostly automatic, accurate and immediate. Also I like the fact that when I'm preparing music for my students such as a duet, trio etc, I can "extract" the parts.

This can make it easier for the student to read, mark or write instructions without affecting the original score.

The immediacy of being able to print out from your own computer is great when, "in a pinch", you need something for that special student (whether needy or advanced).

I also like the fact that I can make changes or revisions to the score at will, and save the changes!

Another advantage of these music notation software programs is that they allow you to enter the score via a midi compatible program. That is, you can enter the score via an instrument, although I've never had to use this function to date.

Most of the excellent software programs these days will give you over one-hundred instrument sounds. You also have the ability to burn files as.wav or .aif and burn audio CD's too. Most also have "macros" or time-saving drag & drop functions, that help by reducing dramatically the time it takes to write music.

In regards to time saving, at the touch of a button or a few clicks, you can enter notes & note multiples, chords, key signatures, even customize keyboard shortcuts to suit your self. The list is virtually endless.

It sure beats the hell out of writing and notating by hand!

So what software do I use to roll out my monthly music on my website and with my home students? Well, I've used a few different ones over the years but the two I could recommend with absolute confidence are Finale & Sibelius.

Indeed, this is what Steve Bryant of the prestigious Julliard Music School says of Finale... "Finale is used extensively in the Julliard computer labs. It is the industry standard, and essential to the education of our students."

If the finale music notation software is good enough for him then...

Sibelius also has the flexibility, convenience and "grunt" of the top line software programs.

Oh! Bye the way, if you're looking for more than music notation software information click here...

Here are some links to the music notation software programs. They are well worth the money...

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