LilyPond

LilyPond is a music engraving program dedicated to producing sheet music of the highest quality. It automates the art of music engraving, bringing the aesthetics of traditionally engraved scores to computer-generated files. Unlike graphical score writers, you work with a simple text-based input file to describe the music. LilyPond then compiles this file into a beautifully formatted and laid-out score, handling complex spacing and layout rules automatically.

This text-based approach provides unparalleled control and flexibility. It is particularly powerful for complex projects and ensures consistent, elegant results. Key capabilities include:

• Support for a vast range of musical styles, from classical and contemporary to vocal and pop.
• Creation of various score types, including orchestral parts, lead sheets, and guitar tablature.
• Advanced features for complex notation, such as polyrhythms, early music notation, and custom symbols.
• Being free and open-source software, it is accessible to everyone.