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OT? Computerized Backup Music

Author: FDF
Date: 2012-07-23 17:10

I’m looking for information on how to set-up computerized music as a backup for my clarinet and saxophone playing. I’m a hobbyist, but might play for small social gatherings or, possibly, nursing homes.

I want to write, arrange, and play this music using a computer. I’m thinking about software such as finale PrintMusic and Band-in-a-Box, plus using a keyboard, and amplified speakers.

Recommendations on how to set-up a system like this would be greatly appreciated. Also recommendations on a capable computer for this purpose along with ideas on software would be helpful.

I hope this isn’t too far off topic, but I got the idea that some members of the board might be doing something like this.

Thanks.

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Re: OT? Computerized Backup Music

Author: Ralph Katz
Date: 2012-07-25 10:44

There have been no replies to your post yet, so I can offer only general comments.

Software publishers will specify a minimum computer system, and pretty much anything you buy that meets these specifications will work. Beyond this, ask whether you want to use this software at home or need a laptop. Remember you will have to take anything else you may need (interfaces, electronic keyboard, microphones, etc.)

Then there is the choice between a Mac or a PC. The PC will be cheaper and also may end up being more upgradable. The Mac is an integrated solution out-of-the-box, but your choices are more limited. Graphics work better on Macs, but don't count on document portability. It all depends on which operating system you feel more comfortable with. My daughter, an engineering student, is a dyed-in-the-wool Mac zombie, but last year she bit the bullet and got a PC. This was an issue of convenience: her university has a lot more PC than Mac support, and the rest of her study group members had PC's. So far, it has met her needs and she is happy with it. My wife's school system still supports mostly Mac's and she is still using Mac's. They all can get the job done.

Band-in-a-Box has a lot of capabilities, but again, it depends on your specific needs and desires. Any college worth its salt will have a music lab and resources who might be able to help you home in on the right software for you. In the commercial world, a mantra that I have oft-repeted is to find the software that best meets your needs, then get whatever hardware it runs on.

You can buy this stuff direct from discounters, but getting it from a brick-and-mortar store will give you access to some experience and assistance you won't get otherwise. Likewise, they will be able to give you some help selecting hardware so that your needs are met, and you don't over-buy way more capability than you need.

Hope this is not overly vague and actually helps.

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Re: OT? Computerized Backup Music

Author: FDF
Date: 2012-07-25 17:40

@Ralph Katz, Thanks for your helpful comments. You've given me some good advice that will help in the selection of hardware and software. The suggestion of finding the right software and then purchasing the hardware to use is excellent. There are always things I don't consider if I get in too big of a rush, and over buying is more of a trap than making sure I get what I really need.

Forest

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