Computers

The primary computer platforms used today are Mac and PC. While there's not a big difference between them anymore; many schools have Macs, while PCs dominate the public market. Music software is gradually catching up with Apple's new OS X operating system, but some Mac software still needs to be run in "classic" mode. PC music programs need some version of Microsoft Windows (usually Windows 95 or higher).

At West Music, we try our best to find quality software that will run both platforms. Many programs are "hybrid" CD-ROMs, meaning that one CD can be used on either Mac or Windows; this makes ordering easier. Computers made in the last 2-3 years should be able to run almost every program listed in our catalog, but please be sure to carefully read the computer requirements for each program since opened software cannot be returned for any reason. If you have any questions, please call before you order.

Music Software Programs

Music software programs can generally be grouped into categories of educational, notation, sequencing/creative, and music games. Almost all music software is in CD-ROM format (instead of a diskette), so your computer will need a CD drive. Most programs also require a mouse.

Music software is market-driven, meaning that unless a program is primarily school-oriented, it may come out for the Windows platform first because that is where the largest consumer market exists. Some programs may get dropped because they don't sell well in the general market even though they have great educational value in schools.

Educational Software

Educational software, as the name suggests, is designed primarily for music instruction. Some programs use a drill and practice approach while others try to incorporate learning with fun by providing games as well as lessons. Younger students want excitement, so the trend has been towards the latter, with lots of graphics, sound, animation, and even video clips. The selection of software continues to expand beyond strictly music theory: titles are now available for learning about musical instruments and ensembles, learning composition techniques, and learning to play an instrument. For example, Sibelius Starclass is a program to help instructors design lesson plans and teach general music concepts at the elementary school level.

Notation Software

A notation program's main function is to produce printed music, although many contain other advanced features. Most programs allow you to input music through the mouse or keyboard, or by using a MIDI keyboard (the computer records information from the keyboard as you play the keys). Other features allow you to add lyrics, transpose, add note marks, and everything else you need to print a professional piece of music. Notation programs use special music fonts to produce professional quality sheet music.

Notation programs are usually classified by how powerful they are: how many staves per system they can have, how extensive the MIDI playback features are, how much the music can be changed or manipulated, etc. Programs like PrintMusic are well suited to elementary classrooms or to someone who needs a simple, easy-to-use music printing program. For professional music publishing or more complex music printing, take a look at Sibelius or Finale.

Sequencing and Creative Software

Sequencing programs (such as Master Tracks Pro) are primarily multi-track MIDI recording studios used to record, manipulate and play back MIDI information through a MIDI device, such as a keyboard or sound module. Some programs show the track information as notation, while show note information is with a graphical system where pitch is vertical and duration is horizontal. If you want to print a file you've created in a sequencing program, you can usually save the file in Standard MIDI File format (a format common to every program that works with MIDI information) and load the raw note information into a notation program where you can add all the markings needed for printing.

A program such as Band in a Box helps you create music by providing automatic music accompaniment to a variety of pre-made songs or to chords that you input, and is a useful tool for band soloists who need to practice parts. These programs help those who don't have a lot of musical knowledge create and enjoy music.

Software Games

A variety of colorful, fun games are available to give children the opportunity to experiment with creating music, practice applying the music concepts they already know, or solve puzzles while learning more about famous pieces of music or famous composers. These programs don't have sequential lessons but they do let children have fun while also gaining more exposure to music.