I realize from the get-go this blog entry will only appeal to a few of you, so be it. I am a singer/songwriter and composer, and I use a music notation software called Sibelius.

I use this particular software because it is the most intuitive, easy, powerful, and inspirational software for music I have ever found! I used to use software called Finale, but it was an absolute NIGHTMARE to use (although, in fairness, many love it and it is considered one of the industry-standard softwares--I just don't grok it!).

Anyway, the reason for this entry is I'm really excited about the new update to Sibelius! For the first time, the program actually allows you to conduct the tempo of your music in real time, as your music is played back. This gives your music a much more organic and "human" feel to it, as opposed to setting a straight tempo and having the program mechanically and robotically playback the score. (Although it always added an element of expressiveness that was nice, just not as organic as a real player!)

Also,the program now allows you to keep track of multiple versions of a score easily, recalling old versions and comparing them to new versions, as well as a host of other cool new features.

What can I say? I'm totally thrilled!