Pros and cons of notation software [Part 2]

Notation programmes – like Sibelius, Dorico and Finale – are useful tools for composers. But make sure you are writing to the full potential of the musicians you’re writing for, and not the weaknesses of the software. Here are 9 things to watch out for when using notation software.

0:00 Intro
0:09 1. Virtual instruments sound very different to each other
1:02 2. Some things sound good slow, not but not good fast
3:41 3. Solo vs. groups or sections of instruments
5:11 4. Range
6:40 5. Expressiveness
8:37 6. Dynamics
11:40 7. Tempo fluctuations
12:42 8. Detail
17:57 9. Some styles of music sound better on notation software

If you use Sibelius, Dorico or Finale, check out NotePerformer – this plugin radically improves the playback of the software.

Watch part 1 of our series on notation software here.

Part 3 will be released soon.