Our expert take on the newest product releases, with in-depth coverage, pros and cons, pricing and availability information, and more.
Dorico 4 is available. This massive update brings features first seen on the iPad, like a Key Editor in Write mode and a revamped Play mode. From smart MIDI import to a library manager with granular house style control, to better score setup and more, this update touches every corner.
The StaffPad “Audio Update” brings new features like audio staves, tempo mapping, adaptive audio to keep your audio in sync with your score tempo, royalty-free production sounds and loops, and studio-quality effects, along with more improvements.
A major upgrade is out for Graphical MIDI Tools for Sibelius, which allows the user to manipulate MIDI information in the score in a graphical manner. It has been completely overhauled as an application that runs within Sibelius to provide a piano roll window.
The Finale v27.1 update brings deeper SMuFL integration into Finale. It is now possible to convert legacy non-SMuFL-based documents to SMuFL-compliant documents, and to import font metadata directly into Finale’s document settings. Plug-ins and libraries are also updated to use SMuFL.
Maestria is a technology that allows Newzik to not just display a score, but also to understand it musically. The resulting score is a LiveScore, which includes the ability to view the score as with any other, and also the ability to play it back and export it.
Sibelius for iPad has arrived. We take a comprehensive first look at what you can expect from the experience, including multi-touch gestures, the revamped Create menu, and new pitch correction and chord input tools.
Dorico for iPad has arrived. This major release for Apple’s tablet platform brings over all the familiar elements of the desktop music notation software program, along with some new features and ways of working.
A review of Finale version 27. Headlining the new features are deep support for two open standards: Standard Music Font Layout (SMuFL), and MusicXML. Tighter SmartMusic integration, playback improvements, and user interface enhancements round out what’s new.
The Sibelius 2021.2 release continues the ongoing evolution of the Find in Ribbon function into an increasingly comprehensive launch bar, now called Command Search. This update also expands Sibelius’s scripting and plug-in capabilities.
MuseScore has released version 3.6. This release is primarily focused on engraving improvements and also introduces a new, SMuFL-compatible music font called Leland, designed by Martin Keary and Simon Smith, inspired by the legendary SCORE program.