Late last month, Denver-based DG Software unveiled the newest addition to their line of music notation software. The MagicScore Maestro 4.1 is a notation program that allows the user to compose manually, by way of a virtual piano, virtual fingerboard—for six- or seven-string guitar players—or via a set of extended musical note symbols; it also has external MIDI composition capabilities. The program permits a great breadth of possibility with regard to composition type, ranging from simple one voice melodies to full-scale orchestral score composition, complete with an extended list of drum and percussion symbols. The chief virtue, however, lies in its editing capabilities. The program is furnished with well-organized and easy to use features for effortless incorporation of dynamic expressions, tempo changes, and other musical symbols, including the ability to create and define your own custom symbols.

The program’s primary pitfall is the difficulty new users may encounter while trying to compose from an external MIDI device. Though the program permits it, the actual composition process can be cumbersome and more tedious than one may expect, requiring a relatively large amount of post-composition editing. The upside is that this editing can be made fairly simply and quickly, and the built-in play-back feature allows composers to listen to what they have just written. Despite its shortcomings, the software’s low cost—only $49.95—more than makes up for it when comparing it to its more expensive cousins such as Finale and Sibelius, making it a great buy for the musician who has wanted to purchase a notation software, but has been put off by the price tags of other programs. The built-in Helper menu and online tutorial make getting started quick and easy.