MakeMusic has released entry-level music notation software Finale NotePad 2009 and Finale Reader, a free reader.
Finale NotePad users can enter notes with their mouse or via step-time entry using any MIDI keyboard. NotePad can also open MIDI files as well as any Finale file. Its Setup Wizard makes it easy to create orchestrations of up to 8 staves and create more specialized notation like guitar or bass tablature. Music plays back with the nuance of Human Playback® and can be heard via the +128 included sounds or through an external MIDI device. Features new to 2009 include an all-new Expression Tool and the ability to import/export MusicXML files.
New in Finale Notepad 2009
- Add Dynamics and Tempo Markings – Entry is quick and easy, and all items are automatically positioned, and change playback appropriately.
- Drag and Drop Expressions – To reposition existing dynamics and tempo markings simply drag them anywhere in your score.
- Fully compatible with Finale 2009 and PrintMusic 2009
- Import and Export MusicXML 2.0 Files, easy expression editing, and more
Finale NotePad is available for Windows and Mac as a download for $9.95 USD or $19.95 on CD-ROM.
The Finale Reader is a free download that lets anyone open, view, print and play any Finale file. In addition it will be able to open MusicXML files as well.
Visit MakeMusic for more information.
Thanks lala, good tip!
Everybody should know about a free (as beer and speech) alternative to Finale Notepad 2009 : MuseScore.
You can have a quick comparison in the following table