One of the most interesting features of Songworks II is Active Listening, in which you can play a part in a multi-part composition as the computer plays the other voices. You can do this merely by tapping keys in the desired rhythm with the pitches supplied automatically. You can even use your computer as a chamber instrument, playing duets or quartets with other players at adjacent computers without necessarily having skill on an instrument. This situation is ideal for learning your part in a chorus or for exploring polyphonic literature.
You can write a score that includes transposing parts, extract orchestra or vocal parts from a score, and listen to any part or combination of parts without connecting to MIDI. Though Songworks is inexpensive, you'll find some capabilities that aren't always present even in programs costing twice as much: the ability to drag note stems to adjust beam angles, for example, or drag bar lines to control the width of individual measures.
The Chord Analyzer is amazing. When the "chord layer" is active, you can play any notes and have Songworks tell you what chord you're playing. It can then automatically enter the correct symbol for that chord when you press the Enter key. This is useful when writing a lead sheet especially if you know how to play a chord but are not sure what it is called.
Standard MIDI files are easily imported, but only if they were produced by a notation program. Otherwise the timing information will be irregular and may lead to confusing results. I use the import feature for importing classical midi files, esp. of vocal music in several parts.
Once the composition has been created, you can print any size reduction or enlargement and adjust page dimensions. Included is a TrueType font which allows high-resolution printing even on non-PostScript printers. The editing features provide easy editing control. Simply drag note stems up or down to change beam angles and heights, drag bar lines left or right to adjust measure sizes. Above all, this software program bridges the gap between music theory and music performance practices. The ability to create music compositions is now enhanced when harmony is suggested to go with your melody or ideas are generated to stimulate your creativity with new melody and harmony ideas. Seeing is believing and Songworks II will provide many new opportunities for creating musical compositions in new innovative ways.
Songworks II is published by Ars-Nova for $125.00. Mac and PC System requirements: 32 MB RAM, CD for installation. Macintosh requires a 68040 or PowerMac CPU. PC requires Windows 95 or 98 with a Pentium or equivalent CPU and a sound card. For more information, contact about Songworks II, contact: