MuseScore Studio, the free music composition and notation software, has added a major new feature to its latest version 4.6 — Online Sounds. The feature deploys Cantai’s AI vocal library to play back typed lyrics in real time, allowing composers to hear vocal lines during the writing process. This is the first of several Online Sounds libraries planned for future updates.
With this launch, MuseScore Studio becomes the first desktop notation application to feature AI-powered vocals with instant sung playback. The Online Sounds feature can assist in composition, arrangement, and practice (though it is not intended to replace the nuance and expression of a live singer).
MuseScore Studio functionality and Cantai voice library for seamless work with lyrics
For this update, MuseScore Studio partnered with Cantai, an AI-powered vocal synthesis platform that turns written scores and lyrics into solo and choral performances. Cantai was previously accessible only through asynchronous tools such as web uploaders or plugins. With version 4.6, Cantai now responds almost instantly as music is written in MuseScore Studio, allowing score creators to hear the vocal lines within seconds of inputting or adjusting the notation.
Hearing lyric changes instantly makes it easier for composers, arrangers, and performers to refine ideas and prepare full mockups for pitching or sharing. It can also be used for practice and rehearsal. For example, choral singers can isolate Soprano, Alto, Tenor, Baritone, or Bass voices, and practice their part along with the rest of the ensemble.
Key features include:
- Instant sung playback of typed lyrics in multiple languages (English and Latin are confirmed for launch, with German, French, Spanish, Chinese, and Japanese in development).
- Realistic voices from classically trained singers to modern pop vocalists, responsive to dynamics, articulation, tempo changes, and breath marks. All voice models are ethically trained using recordings from contracted paid singers.
- Flexible processing controls to suit different workflows.
- Seamless integration with MuseSounds allows composers to combine vocal parts with choirs, orchestras and other instrument libraries.
“Cantai is now available in MuseScore Studio 4.6. It means musicians can use its expressive voices directly in their scores. Many composers and arrangers already value what Cantai offers, and the integration makes the writing process smoother and more intuitive. This partnership is part of our ongoing work to develop music technology and AI that support creativity while keeping the artist’s vision at the center.” — Bradley Kunda, Product Owner, MuseScore Studio.
“With Cantai, composers can finally hear their music sung exactly as they imagine it — from powerful operatic arias and lush choral textures to modern pop vocals. Cantai brings every note to life, turning notation into authentic, expressive performance.” — Richard deCosta, Cantai Founder and Composer.
Lyrical playback in MuseScore Studio is only the latest AI-powered development from Muse Group. Earlier this year the MuseScore team launched NoteVision, a score-scanning tool to convert pdfs into fully interactive, digital scores. The company is also a leader in machine learning education technology, having integrated listening and grading technology into Ultimate Guitar with Practice Mode. Across these projects, Muse Group AI supports creators by improving speed and accuracy, while keeping the creative process in their hands.
More information: MuseScore Studio
