Addicted to Written Notation

One thing I have learned rather quickly in fiddling is that you've got to have a good ear or at least one that pays attention. Coming to fiddling with a few years of classical lessons behind me, I had gotten used to relying on sheet music to know what notes to play and how long to hold them. My ear was on the ball enough to tell me if I was flat or sharp so I have developed good intonation, but my ear really didn't care what note I was playing - only that it was on key.

Now I find myself struggling to listen closely to what my teacher is playing. Sometimes just figuring out if one note is higher or lower than another (when they are close in range) is challenging. I also have to force myself to consciously "not look" at my teacher's fingers as he plays as I can see myself developing another "sight" crutch.

I've only had a half dozen weekly lessons at this point, so I won't be too hard on myself, but reading music does make one a bit lazy, I think. Yet, I have decided that there is still a place for notation - that is, to record tunes that I have already learned in an arrangement that I like. I may be able to develop a good listening ear, but I'm still not convinced on how good my memory is! lol

To that end, I have been auditioning the Finale product line of notation software. I really only need a step above the most basic notation program, but oh, the capabilities of some of their packages makes one want to do so much more. Above is a screenshot of Finale's PrintMusic® 2009 in action. I was trying it out by "typing" in a handwritten Irish reel for my friend, Adrienne, so that it would easier for her to read. Finale looks to be quite a powerful tool, but I have yet to work out how to do a few things on it so I'm not sold yet.  I think I may keep my options open a bit longer. Although, I have a MacBook Pro so my choices might not be as diverse as a PC user's may be.

Nonetheless, I'll be sure to post back if/when I make a decision in that direction. If you have a recommendation, please feel free to comment and let me know what your experience has been.