PMX is a text-based preprocessor for MusiXTeX that will allow you to typeset
scores and parts with far less effort than by using MusiXTeX alone.
All files necessary for running the DOS version in a WIN95 DOS window are
contained in
http://www.gmd.de/Misc/Music/musixtex/software/pmx/pmx220.zip.
The full instruction manual is in pmx220.tex (use LaTeX 2.09). There is
also a postscript image in case you have problems TeX'ing it. If you have
not used PMX before, you should read the first few sections of the manual to
get started, as there is no automatic install or online help.
ref220.tex is a summary of all the legal PMX "symbols" (commands).
Non-DOS users: You will either have to compile the FORTRAN source, or see
the manual for locations of other versions, or wait and other versions may
appear on ftp.gmd.de.
What's new since Version 2.10?
The biggest news is the addition of MIDI file output capability. If you
simply enter "I" near the top of the .pmx file, PMX will generate
[jobname].mid in the working directory, using default settings for all
available options. Please see the manual for description of the options,
which include tempo, midi instrument selection, setting the gap at the end
of each tone, inserting pauses, and replicating entire sections. Please be
aware of the following two restrictions in creating MIDI files: (1) The only
ties that are recognized are those with no index. Among other things this
means that in tied chords at most one note will sound tied while the rest
will be reattacked; (2) Changing the number of instruments in mid-stream
will cause unpredictable results.
Other new additions:
French violin clef. ("f" or "7")
Dotted 32nd rest.
3-digit page numbers.
Numerous bug fixes as usual. See comments near top of pmxab.for for a full
list.
--Don Simons
Chief scientist, Dr. Don's PC and Harpsichord Emporium
