Notation Software and its uses in the Classroom

Music notation software is a very useful tool that music teachers can use for their own personal use in addition to in their classrooms. Teachers can assign projects for their students with the use of music notation programs. For example, teachers can assign their students to an arranging project. This would consist of students copying music note for note, and transposing it for other instruments, or even making an original arrangement. Some other projects could be composing projects, where a student could compose their own one line piece, or even a duet or small ensemble. The advantages of using a notation software as opposed to writing freehand is that it is much more legible, easier to transpose, and you can hear immediate results when editing.

In addition to projects for students, music notation programs have many uses in the

classroom. For example, if parts are too hard for students the teacher can use the software to

edit the part and make it easier. They can also hear the parts instantly to check themselves.

Also, they can make the parts harder if the students are not challenged enough.

In addition to rewriting parts teachers can compose their own music, and make warm-ups

and technique books for their students. Warm ups for the entire ensemble can be easily

transposed from instrument to instrument using certain features of the notation programs.

All in all music notation software has multiple student, teacher, and administrative uses

that can enhance any music program/class.