MuseScore 3 Handbook

This handbook is for MuseScore versions 3.0 to 3.6.2 (and also mostly MuseScore 3.7 Evolution). If you are using a different version of the program, please consult the appropriate handbook for your version:

This handbook is maintained and translated by the MuseScore community. Contributions are welcome! In case of doubt, please consult the English version of this handbook, or ask for help in the Support Forum.

Try browsing the illustrated Glossary for notations you cannot name.

Use the links below to explore content in each chapter of the handbook. Alternatively, you can view the entire handbook as a single continuous page in a printer-friendly format with a multi-level table of contents.

Getting started

This chapter helps you to install and run MuseScore for the first time. It will introduce you to the various learning and help resources.

Basics

The previous chapter guided you through the Download and Installation process.
This chapter shows you how to set up a new score using the MuseScore Wizard and how to enter and edit basic music notation. The various parts of the program window are described—toolbars, Inspector, palettes, etc.—as well as viewing and navigation options.

Notation

In the previous chapter you learned how to enter notes and interact with the palettes. The "Notation" chapter describes the different types of notation, including more advanced music notation.

See also → Advanced topics.

Sound and playback

Inside MuseScore, you can play back your score using the internal synthesizer. This chapter covers dynamics and tempo notations, the playback controls, and ways to extend the instrument sounds. If you are having problems with playback, try suggestions written on How to get sound working if you don't hear anything

Text

Many score elements in MuseScore are based on text, either alone (e.g., staff text, dynamics, tempo, fingering, lyrics, etc.) or in combination with lines (e.g., voltas, octave lines, guitar barre lines, etc.).

This chapter covers these text types and their formatting options:

Other types of text are covered in other chapters:

Formatting

This chapter describes ways to format elements on the pages of a score.

Advanced topics

Support

This chapter describes how to find help using MuseScore: the best places to look, the best way to ask a question on the forums, and tips for reporting a bug.

Appendix

This chapter provides extra information on versions 3.x instead of detailed functions.