All music lovers might have tried their hands on Sibelius and Finale, the two leading and professional-quality music notation software. These two software programs are commercial programs and therefore come at a price, which can be expensive for some.
Free Music Composition and Notation software
However, if you are not much concerned about playback algorithms sounding a bit more realistic or hesitant to buy a new software, try MuseScore. The software comes at an unbeatable price – it’s free!
MuseScore is an open-source, cross-platform music composition and notation software for Microsoft Windows, Mac, and Linux that claims to offer a cost-effective alternative to the aforementioned commercial programs.
The program has a simple tabbed document interface (like a web browser) and fast note-entry, similar to the step-time note entry observed in Finale and Sibelius.
In addition, MuseScore features an easy-to-use WYSIWYG editor with audio score playback, resulting in scores that look and sound beautiful. It also offers the option where you can share your composition with other scorewriters.
The software can import and export files in many music formats, including MIDI and MusicXML.
MuseScore features:
- WYSIWYG, notes are entered on a “virtual note sheet”
- Unlimited number of staves
- Up to four voices per staff
- Easy and fast note entry with your keyboard, mouse, or MIDI keyboard
- Integrated sequencer and Fluid Synth software synthesizer
- Import and export of Music XML and Standard MIDI Files
- Available for Windows, Mac and Linux
- Translated in 43 languages
- GNU GPL licensed
MuseScore seems to be an easy and efficient way to notate and compose music using one’s keyboard, mouse or MIDI keyboard and you can download it from its home page.
