Act One Music Typesetting and Engraving

Updated July 2, 2000




Earn $100,000 at Six Figure Income


Frequently asked questions
What software is used?
How long does it take to typeset a piece?
What size paper is used?
What music fonts are available?
Do you do chord charts and rhythm charts?
Do you do transcriptions from recordings?
Do you do tablature?
How do your rates compare to other typesetters' rates?
Will I receive proof copies before the final draft?
What do you need from me?

What software is used?


How long does it take to typeset a piece?

  • Actually, it depends. Multi-movement works such as symphonies, operas, oratorios, cantatas, etc. will probably take at least a month. For large one-movement orchestral and band works, at least two weeks will be required. Smaller ensemble works can usually be done in one week. Lead sheets and charts in two to three days.


 

What size paper is used?

  • 8 1/2 X 11 unless otherwise requested. 8 1/2 X 14 and 11 X 17 are also available.


 

What music fonts are available?

There are four music fonts that I use.

  • The default font is Maestro and this is the one I will use for most projects, unless otherwise requested.
  • A similar font to Maestro is Petrucci.
  • Another popular font is Engraver. This font is designed to look like music engraving of old. Similar in look to Maestro and Petrucci with some noticeable differences.
  • A popular font for lead sheets and charts is the Jazz font. This font has a handwritten/calligraphy look. I will use this font for lead sheets, chord charts, and rhythm charts, unless otherwise requested.

  • Lyrics and other textual elements will be done in Times New Roman bold unless the Jazz music font is used, in which case the Jazz Text font will be used. If you prefer something different, let me know.

 


Do you do chord charts and rhythm charts?

  • Yes. These can be done with either letter names or Nashville Number System. If full rhythm charts, be sure to indicated which instruments are included.


Do you do transcriptions from recordings?

  • Yes and no. I will do transcriptions from a recording (i.e., tape) for lead sheets and chord charts. I will not attempt to transcribe anything more complicated than that unless it is sent to me as a midi file recording (either on floppy disk or e-mail attachment). Finale 2000 will convert midi files to notation, greatly increasing accuracy.


 

Do you do tablature? 

  • Yes, I will provide tablature for any fretted instrument upon request.


 

How do your rates compare to other typesetters' rates?

  • I've attempted to keep my rates competitive with other typesetters. On the whole, I believe my rates to be slightly lower than average. Click on Rates and Estimates to calculate an estimate for your work.


 

Will I receive proof copies before the final draft?

  • If requested, and I highly recommend that you do so. As meticulous as I will be, it is inevitable that I will occasionally make mistakes. I'd like to rely on you to help me catch those. There will be no extra charge for corrections. However, major changes requested by you after receiving the proof will most likely result in additional charges.


 

What do you need from me?

  • A clean, handwritten manuscript--mailed, faxed, e-mailed.
  • Clearly marked dynamics, expressions, articulations, tempo, etc.
  • If you need a lead sheet, send a handwritten manuscript or recording (tape, e-mail, floppy) with lyric sheet and key indicated.
  • If you are requesting a chord or rhythm chart, same as lead sheet but without lyric sheet (unless you want lyrics included). Indicate whether you want standard letter names or Nashville Number System.
  • Which orientation you prefer--portrait or landscape. Unless specified, all music will be typeset in portrait. Landscape is most appropriate for keyboard or small ensemble/jazz band scores.
  • Paper size--8 1/2 X 11, 8 1/2 X 14, or 11 X 17. 11 X 17 paper should only be used for full orchestral or symphonic band conductors' scores.
  • Indicate if you want a music font other than Maestro (or Jazz for lead sheets and charts).
  • Copyright and composer information. Composer information will be listed at the top of the first page. Copyright notices will appear at the bottom of the first page and should look something like this:

© 2000 by John Doe

  • Indicate if you have a deadline for receiving the final copy.


 

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