I'm a Sibelius fan as well. I started out years ago with Musicator, progressed to Finale, and am now using Sibelius. I do want to respond to Karen's concerns about students who can't do things the old fashioned way. I teach in both the traditional and commercial music programs at our college. For our commercial music majors, using a music program which can both print readable copies and create midi files is a must. The rest of the equipment which they are using can't be duplicated with pencil and paper, and the ability to transfer their compositions to the recording studio is valuable. That said, all our students learn how to write music "the old fashioned way" as well as using technology.For instance, in song writing, they develop their projects on paper and hand them in (for numerous corrections :o) ) but as they approach the final stages, they enter them into the computer to produce lead sheets, instrumental parts and finished printed copies.In addition, being able to play their compositions (even technically complicated ones, or ones requiring orchestra or instruments we don't have) helps them hear where problem spots are, and try out new ideas without bringing in studio musician for student compostitions.I realize we have a specialized program, and I have noticed that students who transfer in and don't know how to write the traditional pencil and paper way often don't have the theory skills necessary to create good music. I think the software helps students and musicians who already have training, but is not as effective in teaching the initial musical concepts. I spent enough time at the old chalk board in school to see the value of doing theory/composition by hand in front of the class.
Elizabeth Walker Labette Community College
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