notation programmes

Sebastian

hi guys, i'm wanting to get hold of a notation programme for pc in order for me to further compositional skills etc....

does anyone have any recommendations? i want something more suited to composing for, lets say, an orchestra, rather than a simple four piece band.

I know Sibelius and Finale are the two main competitors in this market, but wonder if smaller brands like guitar pro are good for what i'm wanting?

any stories or experiences with these products are very welcome ? i've used sibelius quite a bit

if it comes down to it, i want to use the one steve vai uses ?

thanks guys

Fingerpicker

Sebastian,
Which notation software did you eventually settle on? After trialling Finale as well, I bit the bullet and bought Sibelius 6.1 at just under 4 grand. I am ecstaic with its ease of use and sound quality. My computer is redlining at orchestral levels of computing but I'm having fun with my composing and working out chord transitions and lead breaks. It is so much easier to do it on the computer and then apply it to the guitar.

Sebastian

no i haven't settled yet... i'm starting varsity soon and i'll see what software they use before i think about commiting lots of money. eg don't want finale at the university, and go home and use sibelius to try finish a composition... But i know it is a great debate amongst musicians and composers as to whether sibelius or Finale is better... after talking to my old music teacher at school, he said the general consensus is that Finale is preferred by the American market, and Sibelius is the European favourite. my school had Sibelius 5.1 i think...

but you're very right, i cant compose on my guitar... i end up playing some hendrix or mindless finger exercise instead of being creative!! the only time i can really apply my theoretical knowledge properly is at the computer where my fingers are AWAY from the guitar!!

Jack-Flash-Jr

Tuxguitar is open source and works for me... but the composition depth may be an issue. Try it: http://tuxguitar.herac.com.ar/

3ight8all

Jack Flash Jr wrote: Tuxguitar is open source and works for me... but the composition depth may be an issue. Try it: http://tuxguitar.herac.com.ar/

Ray

My son gave me a copy of this and it looks alright. I dare say that you arent going to get the refinement out of it that some dearer products would give. I'm just having a hassle splitting the f'n crotchets into quavers and semi-quavers so I guess its rtfm.

Jack-Flash-Jr

I should add that you can open Guitar Pro tabs with it ?