Hi,
Speaking
of notation software in relationship to the VSL libraries, I notice
that one specific program has been not introduced here: I am talking
about Overture (4.1.5), made by Geniesoft.
In
Windows XP, 32 bit, it serves like a VST host as well as notation
software. Loading VI or VE into the VST rack is just a breeze. Apart
from its capabilities as notation package it offers also precise and
easy MIDI editing per track. Tempo adjustments can be made easily,
there is also some tempo tapping issue, which works better than the
odd Sibelius implementation.
Users
can make their own 'expression' file, a very easy way to set up
whatever keyswitch or CC controller (even combined!!) related to
whatever articulation. This means for example that you can point an
expression as 'a2' to a non divisi patch and 'solo' to a divisi
patch. Simple as that and....much easier than the sound editor of
Sibelius.
The GUI
looks a little old fashioned maybe, but offers a very
intuitive way of handling things. There isn't hardly any learning
curve (like in Finale, Sibelius and also Notion).
So, for
a combination of notation and MIDI editing this a really a fine piece
of software IMHO. It doesn't have that glossy GUI of Sibelius, the
prints are not so sublime also, but it feels a bit like heaven after
years of frustration being able with only the TAB key to switch between scoring and MIDI-editing (there is also a nice piano roll window).
If I
need a beautiful score I still use the Sibelius (I quitted Encore and
Finale years ago already), or idem when I make a quick arrangement
for one my ensembles for example. For very elaborated MIDI editing
only, possibly combined with audio material I use a DAW like Cubase 6
(with its groundbreaking Expression Map 2, which surpasses version 1
in all respects). Sonar has neglected its MIDI users for years now,
so it won't help you much further.
To be
honest: working in Windows 7 (64 bit), there is some 'funny' issue to
be mentioned using Overture (still 32 bit): it doesn't show any audio
device and hence it refuses to select a VST folder.
So,
actually this gives a new situation in which you can use your DAW or
VST host (as Cantabile) directly with Overture, of course with a
correct virtual midi in and out cabling.
There
are rumours that a Overture 5 version will presented, in which this
issue will be resolved maybe. Don't count on it however and just use
the setup as described.
Shortly:
readers of this post: why not give this a try? As long as Sibelius (and again also in this rather disappointing version 7),
Finale and Notion don't offer a easy, decent and extended way of handling
MIDI editing, it doesn't make sense to wait for another decennium.
Admitted, there may be some issues that could make you return back to
what you use now (just visit the forum on the Overture site and see
what is going on there).Of course, also Overture isn't perfect, but the first perfect piece of music software has to be written yet, isn't it?
Personally,
I think that VSL isn't going to produce any notation software in the
(next) future. I would prefer actually, that the core activities
remain focussed on sampling, sampler and sound. There is still some
room for improvement*. So I am eagerly waiting for VI PRO 2 and MIR
PRO by the way.Please note: I am not against the idea of a special new notation
program of course in which VSL products will shine.
I hope
that this post will inspire people to look further than what is
well-known. Maybe superfluously, I don't have any relationship with
whatever software producing company.
Best,
Erik
* It is
not the right place for this topic, but here is my feature request in
VI PRO2: randomizing EQ possibilities per cell (just as in real life). How about that?
