Finale PrintMusic 2009 features streamlined interface

MakeMusic has released Finale PrintMusic 2009, the latest version of its music notation software. The user interface has been streamlined, simplifying the editing of dynamics, tempo indications and other markings. Expressions can now be dragged and dropped between locations, or edited in place without losing time positioning. Scanning features have been improved, with better triplet recognition and compatibility with polyphonic scores.

PrintMusic is designed for songwriters, students, educators, church musicians, or other users that need music notation software but not the advanced features of Finale or Allegro. The Setup Wizard allows key and time signatures, measures, and transpositions to be configured automatically.

A MIDI keyboard can be used to produce real-time scores, or the PC keyboard and mouse can be used to place notes. Brass or woodwind instruments can also be played into a microphone, while the "MicNotator" feature plots the input. MIDI, MusicXML, or MusicXML 2.0 files can be imported or printed music can be scanned.

An integrated 128 instrument synthesizer can play back the score, with a replicated human touch if needed. Harmonies can be added to the melodies, and the music can be burned to a CD or saved as an MP3. Finale PrintMusic for Mac OS 10.4 or higher, or Windows XP/Vista is available from MakeMusic for $100. Users of earlier versions can upgrade for $30.