NoteEdit and MIDI Sequencers

NoteEdit is one of the most comprehensive Linux applications for editing scores with a graphical interface. As the entered notes are sounded immediately by the selected MIDI device, even newcomers can easily prepare scores with NoteEdit. This program offers the entire range of music symbols for writing scores. With NoteEdit, even play and record MIDI files. The scores can be exported in several formats, including MusicTeX and LilyPond.

Start the application with noteedit. A few examples can be found in /usr/share/doc/packages/noteedit/examples/, which can be opened with File -> Open. Use TSE3 -> TSE3 Midi In to import MIDI files. These are loaded into the editor with TSE3 -> Score. Set various options for the conversion in the Filter dialog box.

Midi -> Devices allows selection of one of the ALSA MIDI devices configured in the system. This device is then used for playback as well as for recording. The instrument, the MIDI channel, and many other parameters, such as the stereo panorama, can be set under Staff -> Staff Properties.

Notes can easily be entered with the help of the mouse. First, choose the length of the note and any required accidental in the toolbar. Click to insert a note or right-click to insert a rest. The Insert menu provides objects like clef, meter, and key. More information about NoteEdit is available in the directory /usr/share/doc/packages/noteedit.

In Linux, there are several MIDI sequencers, some of which are very mature. For example, Jazz is a proven, stable program. The development of Rosegarden, the classic among sequencer programs and notation editors for Linux, was resumed recently. Therefore, this program may also be of interest to you. MusE is also a very active project. Meanwhile, the program can be used as a sequencer.

Figure 18.18. The Composition Editor NoteEdit

The Composition Editor NoteEdit