Moving from GarageBand to...

[Bob F.]

I am finding that GarageBand (GB) is rather a closed platform. Of course you can import Midi files to GB to software instrument tracks and drag most audio to Real Instrument tracks. But there is not a lot of "export" capability FROM GB. It seems that i, at least s/b able to export midi files -- as long as all the tracks are software instrument tracks...

For instance, I would like to print sheet music from a GB composition via Finale PrintMusic.

Thanks in advance for your sharing...

[Elena Monastero]

I don't use GB in that way so I can't help you. It would be nice to know how to do that though. If you figure this out please let us know.

[atg]

I believe what you're trying to achieve is possible using Sony Acid...but of course it's PC-based which may be a non-starter for you.

[Bob F.]

Windows... not a problem. remember the Mac Intels support the Bill Gates' OS thru Vista. I am going to give Sony Acid a try. My goal is to start with a GB file (xxx.band) that has only "software instrument" tracks and convert to a xxx.mid file. The blog http://garagebandforwindows.wordpress.com/ has somewhat of a review, but doesn't really say if a Acid file can be converted into a xxx.mid file.

[Carol Broos]

Have your tried using Sibelius, you can take midi files and import them. I think I have taken GB files and put them into Sibelius. Sibelius was created by two musicians, Finale by computer programmers, so there are features in Sibelius that are far superior. I'll get back after I try doing this.

[ian]

You may even look into upgrading from GB to Logic or ProTools. GB is great for the small projects, but you're right in that it doesn't have very many options for export. At least the newer versions allow you to export to disk or iWeb instead of just iTunes.