Creating Original Content with Notation | MatchMySound Help Center

Creating Interactive Notation with MatchMySound

You can create custom exercises in MatchMySound, complete with interactive notation and backing tracks, to share with your learners. This guide will walk you through the basics of creating these exercises.

Getting Started with Notation Files

To create an exercise, you’ll need a notation file. MatchMySound supports:

MuseScore files (.mscz)
MusicXML files exported from other notation programs (e.g., Finale, Sibelius).

Tip: For the best results, create or edit your files in MuseScore, the free, open-source notation software that MatchMySound uses for rendering notation and MIDI.

Why Use MuseScore?

MuseScore ensures the highest compatibility with MatchMySound. While other programs can export files in MusicXML format, some elements may not transfer correctly. Always open and review your files in MuseScore before uploading.

Download MuseScore for free here.
Note: Memberships for downloading scores are optional and not required to create or edit files.

Checklist Before Uploading

To avoid layout or functionality issues, review your file in MuseScore:

Check Layout
- Inspect both Page View and Continuous View (used for Scroll Mode in MatchMySound).
- Adjust measure widths in Continuous View as needed.

Verify Elements
- Line breaks
- Lyric placement
- Instrument names and sounds
Prepare Individual Parts (if applicable)
- For multiple instruments or voices:
  - Open your file in MuseScore.
  - Go to File > Parts.
  - Click All Parts and then OK.

- Review the layout, line breaks, and other elements for each part in both views.

Important: If you skip this step, MatchMySound will auto-generate the individual parts, but the layout may not be optimal.

Additional Tips

Unroll Repeats:
If your file has repeats, multiple endings, or jumps (e.g., codas), unroll them before uploading.
- In MuseScore, go to Tools > Unroll Repeats.
Divisi Parts:
For divisi parts, separate them into two individual parts before uploading.

MuseScore Resources

If you’re new to MuseScore, these resources can help:

You can also find helpful user groups on social media platforms.

By following these steps, you can ensure your notation files are well-prepared and deliver the best experience for your learners in MatchMySound!