How to Learn Music Notation Software
Music notation software is quickly becoming the standard in the world of composing. Notation programs allow composers to input notes precisely, either by clicking or keyboard entry, and they make it easy to manipulate notes and playback and search for errors. As with many professional-level programs, notation software may require a steep learning curve, but downloading the demo versions of programs such as Sibelius and Finale will give you a chance to learn them before buying the full versions.
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Instructions
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Download the freeware version of a music notation software. Although the freeware versions do lack some of the features of the full versions, the demos are a good way to enter the world of computerized notation. The two most prominent notation programs are Finale and Sibelius, although there are many options, each with their own advantages; see Resources for information about other music notation programs.
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Open a new score and start simple by creating a one-instrument piece. Try selecting an instrument you play or are very familiar with.
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Using your mouse as the guide, enter notes by clicking on the staff in the desired location of the notes. Enter several notes in succession to get the idea of a point-and-click entry technique.
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Look to the edges of the screen for the tool tray. If you don't see it right away, click on "View" in the menu bar and choose "Tool Tray" to make it appear. Select different note durations (half note or eighth note, for example) and then click on the staff to enter notes of the selected duration. Try incorporating an accidental by clicking on the sharp/flat button and then clicking on the previously entered note. Depending on which kind of accidental you selected, this will alter the note up or down a half step.
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Experiment with the other features in the tool palette such as rests, dots and ties. They all work through a similar click-and-enter concept. Erase entered music by clicking on the "Eraser" key (a small, angled rectangle) and clicking on an entered note.
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Play the music (by clicking the green triangle or pressing spacebar) to listen to your composition. At the end of the playback, or when you press stop, change the music if desired.
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Buy the full versions of the program once you feel competent with the freeware versions. The full programs offer a wealth of features. Consider using the program's tutorials, looking through online tutorials, and checking course catalogs for local colleges and technical schools for classes in notation software.
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Resources
- Photo Credit music notes image by Pavel Losevsky from Fotolia.com
