Finale SongWriter 2007 now Universal
updated 03:00 pm EST, Fri February 2, 2007
Finale SongWriter 2007
MakeMusic today released Finale SongWriter 2007, a new version of its entry-level music notation software. SongWriter allows users to compose and arrange music, hear their work, and print premium-quality sheet music. This latest version runs natively on both Intel- and PowerPC-based Macs (as well as Windows computers). Created for songwriters of all levels, Finale SongWriter offers several powerful and easy-to-use features. Notes can be entered via a computer keyboard, a MIDI keyboard or by importing MIDI files. Users can effortlessly add key and time signatures, lyrics, chords, guitar fingerboards, markings and musical instructions. Finale SongWriter can also automatically generate two- and three-voice harmonies and drum grooves. Earlier this week, the company also released a Universal version of Finale Allegro 2007, its more sophisticated music notation software.
The software also allows users to create and edit guitar and bass tablature, save MIDI files and create MP3 files. Musicians can experiment with over 128 professional instrument sounds using a free (bundled) professional software synthesizer.
In addition, the software offers other Mac-specific enhancements, including new such as real-time control of volume and pan, customizable reverb, improved playback controls, Music XML import/export, a textured manuscript background and much more. It also supports Apple's Mighty Mouse, roll-over tips, and smoother on-screen graphics via anti-aliasing.
"SongWriter's ability to create MP3 files and world-class sheet music – that can be opened and printed by anyone with the Free Finale NotePad® – make it easy to share your creations with friends, family and fellow musicians," stated Mary Schneider, Make Music's chief marketing officer. "As SongWriter is aimed at the consumer electronics market, we are excited to bring this ability to everyone interested in sharing their music."
The software is available for $50 with a special $40 trade-up program offered for NotePad users. Finale SongWriter requires that users authorize the software within 30 days after installation and allows them to install SongWriter 2007 on one operating system.
