MusicTools Software, a Portland-based music software development company, is providing musicians with the tools to practice and compose music without putting pen to paper or fingers on a keyboard.
Developed by founder and President Brian Bennett, MusicTools Software supports and educates musicians through innovative technology.
The company is developing its flagship program, Composer, to be an out-of-the-box notation app where users can write music by exploring note possibilities. These notes are used to create scores and digital recordings. Composer is being tested with some early customers now.
Bennett’s desire to understand music theory on a deeper level drove him to push the boundaries of music theory with Composer. The app grants users a full understanding of the pattern in music, bringing them power in the creation process, whether sequencing within the app or improvising on their instrument without.
“I wanted to make it easier and simpler for composers to create great music,” Bennett said. “Through Composer, musicians can quickly create music, with full command over harmony, melody, and rhythm. While the software clearly benefits intermediate and advanced composers, it can also empower beginners and enthusiasts to compose, even without any previous knowledge of theory or ability to play an instrument.”
In addition to Composer, Bennett has already launched a music app called, xBeat, that allows users to test their listening skills. While Composer empowered musicians to experiment and develop music, xBeat is focused on enhancing other musical skills.
“XBeat is like Simon Says for rhythm,” Bennett said. “I loved that old electronic Simon Says game and knew I could take that idea and turn it into a fun musical game.”
The app works by playing a rhythm for users, who then repeat it back as accurately as possible. The app judges and scores the performance based on accurately.
A popular way for musicians to enhance their listening skills, xBeat also has a few hidden Easter eggs in it, one that will reward users who are able to get their rhythm accuracy to the nanosecond.
“No one has won the Easter egg yet,” Bennett said. “It’s near impossible.”
Both Composer and xBeat were developed with the goal of making music accessible and helping amateur and professional musicians get better at their craft.
“We’re constantly looking for new ways to infuse music and technology and bring innovation to the industry,” Bennett said. “Future apps will include color-coded harmonies and colored soundwaves, so users can see rainbow effects, as well as spatial tools to enhance pattern recognition.”
MusicTools Software is hiring and is particularly looking for user experience experts. As well as marketing talent.
“I dream about putting Composer into the hands of the thriving UX community here in Portland, having community development,” Bennett added. “It will be exciting to see what interest the project will stir. A lot of people in tech seem to be passionate about music and a project of this nature could bring a lot of fulfillment to those looking for something more rewarding.”
This is part of a regular guest column written by the Technology Association of Oregon. If you are interested in submitting a guest post please email Malia Spencer at mspencer@bizjournals.com.
