Muse Group have announced that their free composition and notation software now includes a built-in Online Sounds tool that allows composers to type in lyrics during the writing process and have them played back in real time.
The company say that the launch of MuseScore 4.6 makes the popular desktop application the first of its kind to offer instant AI vocal playback. The new feature has been created alongside vocal synthesis experts Cantai, and uses their voice library to allow composers to hear vocal lines during their writing process. Of course, such tools are the subject of much debate among creative communities, and Muse Group are keen to point out that the feature has been designed to aid the composition and arrangement process, and is not intended as a replacement for live singers! Importantly, the core library that powers the feature has been built using recordings from paid, contracted singers.
Cantai was previously accessible only through tools such as web uploaders or plug-ins, so its integration into MuseScore 4.6 offers a significant improvement in turnaround time. The tool now responds almost instantly as music is written in MuseScore Studio, allowing creators to hear their vocal lines within seconds of inputting or adjusting the notation. It is also capable of separating soprano, alto, tenor, baritone and bass voices, meaning it can be used to isolate different parts for rehearsal purposes.
Key Features
- Instant sung playback of typed lyrics in multiple languages (English and Latin are confirmed for launch, with German, French, Spanish, Chinese and Japanese in development).
- Realistic voices from classically trained singers to modern pop vocalists, responsive to dynamics, articulation, tempo changes and breath marks. All voice models are ethically trained using recordings from contracted paid singers.
- Flexible processing controls to suit different workflows.
- Seamless integration with MuseSounds allows composers to combine vocal parts with choirs, orchestras and other instrument libraries.
“Cantai is now available in MuseScore Studio 4.6. It means musicians can use its expressive voices directly in their scores. Many composers and arrangers already value what Cantai offers, and the integration makes the writing process smoother and more intuitive. This partnership is part of our ongoing work to develop music technology and AI that support creativity while keeping the artist’s vision at the centre.” - Bradley Kunda, MuseScore Studio
"With Cantai, composers can finally hear their music sung exactly as they imagine it — from powerful operatic arias and lush choral textures to modern pop vocals. Cantai brings every note to life, turning notation into authentic, expressive performance." - Richard deCosta, Cantai Founder & Composer
Compatibility
MuseScore Studio is supported on PCs running Windows 10 or above, Macs running macOS 12 and higher, and a range of recent Linux distributions — more detailed information for Linux users can be found the MuseScore website.
Availability
MuseScore Studio 4.6 is available now, and is free to download and use.
