I have heard that Notion is demonstrating some pretty impressive MusicXML import from both Finale and Sibelius at summer NAMM, but I have not yet seen this myself. I believe that Notion will be the first program to support MusicXML import before it supports MIDI import.
VirtuosoWorks' July 16 newsletter included the following information regarding file import and export: ----------------------------------------------- COMING SOON We are now adding file import of the following formats: - MusicXML - MusicPrinter Plus - MIDI files MusicXML import will be available via free download in a couple of weeks. The others, as well as the corresponding export functions will be available in the next few months. Stay tuned for details. ----------------------------------------------- Robert, Finale's playback is always MIDI based, though it can save to an audio file. Kontakt is basically a MIDI-controlled software sampler using the GPO samples. Note that Notion currently is a Windows-only product, though they have said that a Mac version should be ready this fall. If you want MusicXML export to work faster on Macs, please let MakeMusic know. When I saw Notion at winter NAMM, it wasn't really aiming at great performances of raw scores. Instead, it was trying to get great performances by controlling the sequencer through notation. You would use a marked up score for Notion performance the same way that you would mark up a score or part for human performance - thinking and working in musical terms, not in sequencer terms. The real test between Finale 2006 and Notion is not so much the quality of out-of-the-box playback. Rather it would be the combination of quality and ease of getting an interpretation that you want, rather than one that the program chooses by default. I hope to get the chance to try out Notion once the MusicXML import is completed. Besides his pioneering software work, Jack Jarrett is also a fine composer and conductor. I've had the privilege of participating in the premieres of some of his choral works under his direction. Best regards, Michael Good Recordare LLC _______________________________________________ Finale mailing list [email protected] http://lists.shsu.edu/mailman/listinfo/finale
