Discover StaffPad
In this introduction series, you'll be introduced to the concepts and interface of StaffPad, learn how to set up a new score and how to begin writing music.
The Autumn 2023 Update
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Video Staffs. Free Muse Sounds libraries.
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Quick Tip #1
Use the lasso tool to paste between voices
Working with chords
StaffPad has some fantastic features for working with chord symbols. You can add them manually, have StaffPad add them for you, or even work with a special Chord Staff to see a live, realtime harmonic analysis of the entire piece.
To generate chords above a staff, just tap the staff name and toggle Show Chords in the Edit Staff dialog. StaffPad will analyse the harmony and print usable chord symbols for you. You can move or erase these as necessary, or add new custom ones if you wish.
To manually enter chords, long press above the staff and choose Insert Chords. Space bar quickly moves the cursor from note-to-note to enable quick entry.
To add a Chord Staff , add it from the the Utility Staffs category. Tapping the Chord Staff's name shows a complexity slider . To quickly add a chord to the chord staff manually, just tap a beat marker , and type a chord.
Using a tempo map
StaffPad allows for very precise tempo maps to be created or imported for playback purposes, whilst also giving you control over how much tempo information is displayed on the score.
To do this, we use a tempo staff . Add a tempo staff from the "Utility Staffs" category. Enable the automation layer , and you'll see a blue line indicating the tempo graph. You can tap with your pen to place a new tempo point , and use the small blue circle to create ramps for smooth accelerandos (speed ups) orritards (slow downs).
If you have a tempo map already created in a DAW, you can import it by tapping the tempo staff name and choosing "Import tempo from MIDI file ". Select your MIDI file and StaffPad will create the tempo graph for you. The "Detail" slider controls how many tempo points you'll see. In simple mode, StaffPad willinterpret the graph and write averaged tempos , with accel. and rit. instructions to make the tempo map easier to read.
Quick Tip #2
Triple tap the clef to quickly select the entire staff.
StaffPad and the Reader
Learn how StaffPad and StaffPad Reader work together to create the ultimate synchronised digital music stand.
Work with Audio
StaffPad has some powerful features for mixing audio right onto your score. Work with vocals, record your guitar... tempo map it to accurately capture the tempo. Write your arrangement using world class sample libraries, then record the chart with your favourite musicians using StaffPad Reader. StaffPad is truly futuristic, and it's happening today.
Video Staffs
If you're scoring or working to video, then video staffs are essential. Import your video file using any of the major formats supported by your OS. Craft a tempo map to ensure your music syncs perfectly with the movie.
Once you've finished perfecting the scene, export your movie using the Share menu.