Music software
Notation software
Notation software is used to prepare a finished score and to provide playback of the composition. Composers input notes and expression markingsSymbols added to a score to indicate the composer鈥檚 musical intentions. using a computer keyboard or mouse. A musical keyboard can be connected to the computer, for the inputting of notes. Classical composers such as Errolyn Wallen, composers of musicals such as Andrew Lloyd Webber and writers of music for film and television such as Howard Goodall are examples of composers who may make use of this type of software for preparing their notated scores. Notation software is also useful for trying out ideas and hearing what they sound like.
Tips and guidelines for working with notation software:
- Map out the structure for the piece before you begin and include all sections in your score. This makes working on sections at different times much easier.
- Standard composition techniques can all be explored within the software, such as repeating phrases with variations, adding ornamentsNotes added to decorate a melody., adding harmoniesAdding melodic layers to a tune that usually sound pleasing when played together. and using retrogradeMove backwards. or inverting melodies.
- Always listen to your work as you go along to make sure it sounds exactly as you want. You are the composer!
- Make sure that whatever you write is technically possible for the instruments you have chosen.
- Remember that MIDIA technical facility that allows a range of digital music making equipment to connect with each other. playback can only give an indication of what the piece will sound like when played on real instruments.
- There is more to writing a score than pitchThe frequency of a sound. Sounds with a high pitch have a high frequency. and rhythmPatterns created by notes of various lengths.. It is important to consider tempoThe speed or pace of performance in speech, dance or music. changes, variations in dynamicsRefers to the softness or loudness of a piece of music., instrumental playing techniques and expression markings where appropriate.