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Notation software is used to prepare a finished score and to provide playback of the composition. Notation software is also useful for trying out ideas and hearing what they sound like. Composers input notes and expression markings using a computer keyboard or mouse. A musical keyboard can be connected to the computer to input notes.

Errolyn Wallen, a modern composer, Andrew Lloyd Webber, a writer of musicals, and Howard Goodall, who writes music for film and television, are examples of composers who use this type of software for preparing their notated scores.

Working with notation software

• Map out the structure for the piece of music you are writing 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 ornaments, adding harmonies using retrograde or inverting melodies.
• Always listen to your work as you go along to make sure it sounds exactly as you want it. You are the composer!
• Make sure that whatever you write is technically possible for the instruments you have chosen.
• Remember that MIDI 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 pitch and rhythm. It is important to consider tempo changes, variations in dynamics, instrumental playing techniques and expression markings where appropriate.

Remember that notation software will not create music for you. Notation software will help you lay out your ideas and let you listen to them, but the ideas themselves have to come from you. It is best to develop musical ideas as a live musician using your instrument, not by sitting in front of a screen. Notation software is most useful during the editing or refining process.