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You mean I have to notate it?
Tips for using computer software to notate your composition.
Many students are alarmed when they realise that they have to notate their composition. A good solution is to use computer software. However there are a few things to watch out for.
The draft score
A computer score can often give you a false sense of achievement. It may look good and yet be almost impossible to play. It is a good idea to follow the example set by contemporary Australian composers today. A very small percentage of them work directly to the computer screen. The majority draft their compositions by hand, then copy the scores into a notation program.
Even if you are working on ideas at the computer, set up the score template on manuscript paper and write it out as the work progresses. If you are writing for conventional instruments, refer to books such as Orchestral Technique - A Manual for Students by Gordon Jacob. Check the grouping of instruments, the range, the clef, correct articulation marks and score expressions for each instrument in your composition.
If you are working in a jazz, rock or pop medium, take care to set up the score with the systems in the correct order. Avoid the grouping found on commercial or public domain MIDI files. These are "audio" tracks ordered according to MIDI channels, and do not apply to the written score. Some notation programs have a jazz font, so use it if it is there.
Most schools have a collection of concert band, stage band, and pop vocal band charts. Study these to determine the score conventions for the style. There are numerous books available on writing and scoring for instruments such as bass guitar, electric guitar and drums. Check these references to make sure you are writing and scoring correctly for the instrument.
You may be developing a composition for unusual instruments or sounds. If so, check that your score clearly indicates your intention, and reflects the capability of the "sound source". It must be possible for your composition to be played and interpreted from your score.
The
computer score
The
first step is to set up a template for your score. Save a copy of
the template and the work at different stages as "title_1, title
2, title_3" so that you don't have to go back to the beginning
if a glitch occurs.
(a)
Insert the correct number of staves on your template.
(b) Select the appropriate clef for each instrument.
(c) Insert the key signatures; check that the different transpositions
are correct.
(d) Set up the instrumental groups and add bracket, for example, piano
brackets.
(e) Add rehearsal figures (A, B, C, etc.) and bar numbers.
(f) Assign repeat signs to sections.
(g) Add a double bar at the end.
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