WO2007078261A1

WO2007078261A1 - Method and system for text-editing and playing back a score

Info

Publication number: WO2007078261A1
Application number: PCT/SG2007/000001
Authority: WO
Inventors: Wong Hoo Sim; Jin Jing Li; Guo Qiang Feng
Original assignee: Creative Technology Ltd
Priority date: 2006-01-06
Filing date: 2007-01-03
Publication date: 2007-07-12
Also published as: JP2009522614A; CN1996278A

Abstract

A method and system for text editing, playing back a score are disclosed, which have a word processing/playing back function for a score. Using the method and system according to the invention, experts and non-experts can learn and use easily; efficiency can also be improved. A user can input notes, signs and lyrics conveniently in a way similar to that in text-editing software. Moreover, these notes and signs are provided with visualized shortcut operations and have intelligent prompts. A user can learn easily and operate efficiently. Layouts of a score file can be flexible and rich, which is got by operations similar to those in word-processing software. Additionally, a user can insert a picture to beautify layouts, alter font effects and align scores and lyrics as desired. Meanwhile, the method and system have a function for playing back a score. A user can listen in to a score at any time, select and arrange various music instruments as desired to support multiple voice parts. Additionally, the method is complete and intelligent in repeat playback of a score.

Description

Method and System for Text Editing and Score Playback

TECHNICAL FIELD [0001] The invention relates generally to a method and system for editing and playing back a score. More specifically, the invention relates to a method and system for text-editing and playing back a score.

BACKGROUND [0002] Today, there are in the market two major kinds of score editing software products, one for a staff and the other for numbered musical notation, and they are adaptable for an expert and amateur. Using these products, a user can input notes, edit a score, and play the score at any time in order to amend the score. Moreover, these products have capability for printing a score. The products are popular since editing a score becomes easy by use of these computer-aided tools. [0003] Generally, a score editing software should address the following matters: inputting a score including notes and signs; displaying a score, such as lines and notes of a staff, and turning over pages; amending a score, including adding, deleting and changing functions, without leaving amending marks as on the traditional paper; playing a score to examine if the effects a composer expects have been achieved; printing a score on a paper to pass round for reading; saving a score into a computer document for reading and editing later; inputting lyrics to express them in the form of words combined with the score; annotating a score, including adding to the score notations, such as a title, a subtitle, authors, copyright information etc. [0004] The popular score editing software products presently are, for example, Encore, Overtrue, Finale, Sibelius, Composer, and so on. Generally, these products are able to provide above basic functions, and have respective characteristics. However, disadvantages of present score editing software products are that: the process of inputting and amending of numbered musical notation is complex and editing functions are weak, so that efficiency is lower and even some editing functions can not be realized; while editing software products having stronger capabilities are typically for experts, and it is difficult for novices. [0005] For example, one editing software product for numbered musical notation displays on screen a text-editing interface when running on a computer. The interface contains shortcuts corresponding to various score elements, such as notes, signs of numbered musical notation. When composing a score, one can click a shortcut button of a desired score element by a pointing device, such as a mouse, then drag the score element to desired position in the score. Thus, one inputting operation of a score element is completed. As can be seen, this composing software product is not easy to use, compared with stronger editing capabilities provided by other usual text-editing software, such as Microsoft Word ®. Additionally, this product lacks many editing capabilities, such as, adjusting automatically layout, inserting a picture or an art word etc, setting font, and so on, which resulting in inconveniences for users. [0006] Moreover, numbered musical notation has its own writing rules, i.e. syntax of numbered musical notation. It is desirable to provide the following contents that a user is likely to input, in accordance with the syntax of numbered musical notation, based on the content that the user inputted before, or to determine whether contents inputted violate the syntax, and, if so, to suggest the user to correct the error or to automatically correct the error. Thus, efficiency can be improved and delighted user experiences can be got. However, existing numbered musical notation editing software has not provided these functions. [0007] Additionally, although existing numbered musical notation editing software products provide some playing back functions, these playing back function are all too simple. For example, they lack real time playing pack, playing back repeats accurately, and playing back multiple voice parts etc. However, users wish to real time listen in to notes inputted when inputting, or listen in effects of changed notes while changing numbered musical notation. Therefore, there are needs for real time playing back pieces of a score and playing back contents as desired in accordance with commands from users. Numbered musical notation has rich expression forms and can express complex, beautiful music. Although existing numbered musical notation editing software products might edit many ornaments (for example, repeats, grace note, staccato) that are used to express the beauty of music in a numbered musical notation score which is editing, however, they can not play back all numbered musical notation signs, but only the pitches and durations of the notes.

SUMMARY

[0008] A score editing method and system are provided to overcome problems in foregoing existing score editing software products. Using the method and system in accordance with present invention, experts and non-experts can learn and use easily, efficiency can be improved, and the layouts got are beautiful. Users can input notes, signs and lyrics conveniently in a way similar to that in text-editing software. Moreover, these notes and signs are provided with visualized shortcut operations and have intelligent prompts. Users can learn easily and operate efficiently. Layouts of a score can be flexible and rich through operations similar to those in word-processing software. Additionally, users can insert a picture to beautify layout, alter font effects and align a score and lyrics as desired. An edited score can be printed and bound as a music book. Meanwhile, users can still listen in effects of a score at any time, select and arrange various music instruments as desired to support multiple voice parts. Additionally, the present method is complete and intelligent in repeat playback of a score. [0009] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, a method is provided for creating and/or editing a score file in a word processor in the way of text editing, and making layout design of the score file. The editing method for a score may comprises steps as follows: loading an input mapping table containing input mapping rules into a word processor, the input mapping rules define mapping relations between input signals and score data, editing commands; creating or loading a score file comprising score data; and converting an input from external device according to above input mapping rules, editing the score data contained in the score file in the way of text editing according to the converted input, and then accomplishing the layout design of the score file. The method also includes playing back capability for a score. [0010] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a playing back method for a score is provided. The method can pay back a score, which is being edited in a word processor. The method comprises following steps: loading a play back action table, which contains score play back action rules, wherein the play back action rules define various play back actions corresponding to those of various score data; analysing a score file and obtaining playing back data in accordance with the play back action rules, wherein the playing back data corresponds to all score data and attributes in the score file which can be played back; and outputting the playing back data to an audio device to reproduce the score file. [0011] In accordance with still another aspect of present invention, a system for editing a score is provided. The system can be implemented on a general-purpose computer that can realize above methods, or implemented in other platforms. [0012] Using the editing method and system, a user can input conveniently and efficiently by intelligent input prompt. Moreover, text editing is a rich, flexible way, in which what you see is what you get (WYSIWYG). Playing back capability provided in the method can play back all score elements flexibly. This system overcomes difficulties in an existing editing system, and can be used easily, thus improving efficiency. This system also creates a new way for composing a score. Additionally, this text editing method changes existing layouts of a score, which are simple and crude. Layouts got by this method are much more richer. [0013] Using the method and system provided by the present invention, a user can compose and input flexibly a score by operations similar to those of text editing, in a way of WYSIWYG, to attain rich, unbound score layouts. Furthermore, a user can listen in to a score and print a music book.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0014] Fig. 1 is an exemplary block diagram of a general purpose computer platform on which present invention can be implemented; [0015] Fig. 2 is a flowchart illustrating a method for editing numbered musical notation in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0016] Fig. 3 shows a user interface and editing operations of the editing system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0017] Fig. 4A-4D show an example of editing process in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0018] Fig. 5A~5C show another example of editing process in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0019] Fig. 6A-6C show still another example of editing process in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0020] Fig. 7A-7C show still another example of editing process in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; [0021] Fig. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a process for changing contents of numbered musical notation, which comprises intelligent input prompt and correction, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0022] Fig. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a process for changing formats of numbered musical notation contents in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0023] Fig. 10 shows examples of fonts in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0024] Fig. 11 A-I lD show another example of editing process in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] Fig. 12 is an illustrative diagram which illustrates selection of playing back options; [0026] Fig. 13 is a flowchart illustrating a process for playing back in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; and [0027] Fig. 14 is an illustrative diagram, which shows a part of multiple voice parts music in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiments

[0028] Hereinafter, the present invention will be described with reference to specific embodiments. The present invention can be implemented in forms of hardware, software, firmware or combinations thereof.

[0029] First, a computer platform on which the present invention can be implemented will be described with reference to fig. 1. Fig. 1 is an exemplary block diagram of a general-purpose computer platform on which present invention can be implemented.

[0030] In fig. 1, a computer 100 includes a processing unit 110, a system memory 120, and a system bus 130 that couples various system components including the system memory to the processing unit 110. The system bus 130 may be any of several types of bus structures including a memory bus or memory controller, a peripheral bus, and a local bus using any of a variety of bus architectures. The system memory 120 includes read only memory (ROM) 140 and random access memory (RAM) 150. [0031] The computer 100 also includes storage device drive 170, which is connected to a bus through a storage device interface 192, for reading from and writing to a nonvolatile storage device 180. Storage devices include hard disk, floppy disk, optical disk etc. Accordingly, a storage device drive 170 corresponds to a respective drive. A computer 100 associated with the drive 170 can read from the nonvolatile storage device instructions, data structures, program modules and other data for the computer 100. A number of program modules can be stored on the nonvolatile storage device 180, including an operating system 195, one or more application programs 196, other program modules 197, and program data 198. Upon the computer 100 is started up, these program modules are loaded into RAM 150 by the computer 100 in accordance with user commands or automatically. [0032] A user can enter commands and information into the computer 100 through input devices, such as a keyboard 101, pointing device 102 and other input device 103, connected to the input device interface 106 of the computer 100. Other input devices may include a microphone, audio- specific input device or the like. As for input devices of present invention, general input devices such as a mouse, keyboard can be used to input numbered musical notation data based on corresponding input mapping rules. A keyboard specifically designed for inputting numbered musical notation or for the present invention, and devices which can carry out corresponding inputting also can be used to input numbered musical notation data.

[0033] A computer 100 also includes output devices coupled to a system bus via adapters. For example, a display 107 for displaying relative information is coupled to the system bus 130 via video adapter 108. In response to actions or user operations of the computer 100, the display 107 displays contents required in real time. A computer can display contents in text form, for example, the display way in a word processor editing software. A most typical one is that of Microsoft Word® form Microsoft Inc. In such a display way, the computer displays current contents in the GUI, and what you can see is what you can get. User's editing actions and effects thereof can be real time displayed in rich forms. In this way, users can find effects on the contents of their actions in real time, in order to facilitate their editing operations. Thus, efficiency can be improved and delighted user experiences can be got. [0034] Also, output devices of the computer 100 include an audio output device 166, which is connected to the system bus 130 via an audio adapter 165. Audio adapter 165 includes multiple data paths for adapting data between the system and the audio output device 166. For example, audio adapter 165 converts digital signals processed in the computer 100 to analogy signals adapted for being played by the audio output device 166. The audio adapter 165, for example, is an integrated audio adapter on board, such as AC 97 decoder, and an audio adapter connected to a computer via various interfaces, such PCI interface. An adapter can support only one audio output device. However, an adapter preferably supports a number of audio output devices, and a computer 100 can also support multiple audio devices 165. Thus, a computer 100 can support various audio output as desired and get effects as playing in a theater. Therefore, users can get feels like in a theater. [0035] Moreover, the computer 100 can operate in a network environment including a local area network (LAN) and a wide area network (WAN). For example, the computer 100 communicates with a remote computer 109 through a network 112 using a network adapter 114. In this way, the computer 100 and remote computer 109 can cooperate each other, or use the others side's resource, or share data, and so on. For the present invention, the computer 100, for example, can use resources of the remote computer 109 to accomplish corresponding processing, or share music edited or played back with the remote computer 109. [0036] Although a computing platform for implementing the present invention has been described, the present invention can be implemented in other platforms, for example, a computer without being connected to network, PDA (personal digital assistant), smart phone etc. [0037] In general, on a computing platform implementing the present invention, numbered musical notation to be edited is in a file. One numbered musical notation file corresponds to one or more music pieces. A numbered musical notation file of the present invention consists of numbered musical notation data. Numbered musical notation data comprises numbered musical notation signs and other data. Other data, for example, may include pictures, words and the like. Numbered musical notation signs are data defined by numbered musical notation syntax, which is well known in the art. Typically, numbered musical notation signs include notes, rests, pitch signs, duration signs, dot signs, bar lines, ties, repeat signs and grace notes, etc. Numbered musical notation signs can be divided into basic signs and ornament signs. The basic signs include notes, such as 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7, and duration signs thereof, which record the pitch and length of the notes. The ornament signs include, for example, grace notes, repeat signs, clef signs, rhythm signs, slur signs, and so on.

[0038] In the present invention, above numbered musical notation files are edited in text-editing form. Text-editing means such a way, in which contents and formats of a file under editing are changed by inputting contents and commands through a keyboard and mouse, and changed effects are displayed in a WYSIWYG way. For example, the actions include inputting, inserting, copying, cutting, pasting, adjusting formats and the like. [0039] Editing and playing back methods will be described by referring to the companying drawings. First, the fig. 2 will be referred to in describing one numbered musical notation editing method according to one embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 2 is a flowchart generally illustrating numbered musical notation editing method according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] In fig. 2, the method begins at step Sl, wherein the input mapping table, which contains input mapping rales, is loaded. The input mapping rales define mapping relations between signals from an external input device and numbered musical notation data, as well as editing commands.

[0041] The common input devices are a keyboard and a mouse in a general computer. The electrical signals inputted by a user through a keyboard and a mouse are converted in a computer in order to get digital signals, which can be processed by the computer. These digital signals relates to corresponding logical representations. For example, after converted, the signals inputted through a keyboard typically correspond to ASCII codes. Therefore, in order to make data inputted through an input device of a computer correspond to numbered musical notation data and editing commands, the mapping relations between inputs of a computer and numbered musical notation data, as well as editing commands must be established.

[0042] There are a number of ways to establish such relations, such as establishing relations between inputs of a keyboard and final numbered musical notation data, as well as editing commands. In this way, a user can input various numbered musical notation data and editing commands by using one key or combined keys of a keyboard as inputting Chinese words using the computer 100. For example, a "/" is used for decreasing the duration of a note by half, a "?" for doubling the duration of a note, a "^Λ" for setting or undoing N ties, a "|" for a bar line (begin or end), a "!" for a flat sign, a "@" for a natural sign, a "#" for a sharp sign, a~g and A-G for absolute pitches, and 1~7 for pitches. For example, relations between shortcuts of combined multiple keys and editing commands can be established. Also, other corresponding relations may be employed. [0043] Corresponding numbered musical notation signs can be marked on respective keys of a keyboard to facilitate users inputting. Thus, such a keyboard is an application specific keyboard for both general purpose and numbered musical notation input. In such case, the corresponding relations between inputs of the input device and numbered musical notation signs are fixed and cannot be changed easily. Moreover, users may not use an above keyboard, but define input mapping rules and remember them. It is possible to provide for a user an interface to allow users define input mapping rules themselves. In this case, a user can obtain much flexibility. Moreover, another choice is, most input mapping rules could be fixed, and only a few special input mapping rules can be changed. Thus, certain flexibility is provided without making the user in confusion. Some specific input devices, such as customized input keyboard for a score, also can be used.

[0044] Preferably, input mapping rules are predefined. An input mapping table containing input mapping rules is stored in a storage device of a system according to the invention, such as the nonvolatile storage device 180 in the computer system 100. The input mapping table is loaded into, for example, the system memory 120 of the system when needed, and became available for a user. Whereby, a user can input numbered musical notation data through an external device. [0045] Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S2. At step S2, a numbered musical notation file can be created or loaded. In the case of loading a file, what is loaded could be a numbered musical notation file produced by a system implementing the invention, or a numbered musical notation file of other type that is then converted to a file according to the invention properly. Then, the process proceeds to step S3, where editing can be done on the above file. In editing, input signals from an external device are converted into numbered musical notation contents and editing commands recognizable to a computer in accordance with above input mapping rules. The data in the current numbered musical notation file is then text-edited in accordance with the converted inputs. [0046] The GUI for editing a numbered musical notation file is shown in Fig.3. Fig. 3 shows a case where a song of Lan Hua Hua is being edited. As can be seen form the fig. 3, the GUI is very similar to that of common text-editing software. The GUI comprises a window 301, a menu bar 302, a tool bar 303, and other assistant tools, such as scales 304. [0047] A windows 301 is primarily used for displaying current numbered musical notation data in a way of text, in order to display editing process visually for a user and displaying results of the editing in real time. For example, as shown in fig. 3, a cursor is at the position after "WC immediately after a word "WC is inserted.

[0048] A user can select a menu command from the menu bar 302 using a mouse, keyboard, or combination of mouse and keyboard. [0049] The tool bar 303 comprises, for example, a music sentence line, combining line, octave higher, octave lower, half duration, double duration, N ties, connecting/disconnecting underlines, inserting a blank row before a paragraph, inserting a blank row after a paragraph, following high tone, SBC case inputting, arranging a bar, starting playing numbered musical notation data from the current cursor/stop playing, playing from the begin/stop playing, analyzing tone range, selecting instruments, inserting signs, setting options, and so on. A user can select tools from the tool bar by a mouse, or combination of mouse and keyboard to implement inputting and modification of contents to be edited and other operations.

[0050] Although, an arrangement of GUI is shown in the example of fig.3, the GUI can be arranged in other ways. Other elements can be provided to facilitate user's operations, too. [0051] Through the GUI, a user can input contents and commands using an input device, such as a keyboard, or a mouse, to edit the aforementioned numbered musical notation file. The operations for editing a numbered musical notation file include changing numbered musical notation data and changing attributes of the data to change format thereof. Firstly, changing numbered musical notation data is described in conjunction with examples in the following descriptions. [0052] For example, a user can input numbered musical notation data into current numbered musical notation file according to input mapping rales. Additionally, a user can input or change numbered musical notation data by inputting commands directly, or by selecting commands, such as menu commands or commands from the tool bar. The above operations can be carried out by using a keyboard, a mouse or combination of them. Data can be inputted into a blank file, or inserted into a position in an existing file containing numbered musical notation data.

[0053] The way in which contents of a numbered musical notation file are inputted is similar to that of common text-editing software. For example, in accordance with established input mapping rales, numbered musical notation notes, such as "2", "5" and "6" shown in the fig.3, can be inputted by a keyboard directly. As examples for inputting by commands, a user can select a particular button from the tool bar, and chose an intended element from particular elements displayed to input the element. For example, reference to fig.4A ~4D is made. In fig.4A, a user selects inserting signs button 401 from the tool bar 303; and as a result, a dialog box 404 is displayed, as shown in fig.4B. In fig.4B, if one of repeat signs 4041 is selected, the selected repeat sign is inserted into the position of current cursor. When the repeat sign is inserted, a bar line is changed into an inserting sign if the current cursor is before the bar line, and a bar line is inserted automatically and then the bar line is change into an inserting sign if the current cursor is not at a section line. Fig.4C shows a case where a repeat sign 4046 is inserted. Such inputting by a command can be carried out by a mouse selecting, a keyboard shortcut, or a combination of them.

[0054] Changing contents of a numbered musical notation file also includes, for example, deleting, copying and pasting existing contents in the file. As for deleting, a user can select contents to be deleted by a keyboard, mouse or combination of them. For example, a user can select content to be deleted by Ctrl and a direction key, or by Shift key and mouse clicks; a user also can select what is to be deleted by the left button of a mouse, and delete it, for example, by putting Delete key, using the menu activated by the right button of a mouse, or putting button on the tool bar. The process is similar to that of common text-editing software. Accordingly, the processes in which copying and pasting are carried out are similar to those of common text-editing software. [0055] Changing contents of a numbered musical notation file also includes changing inputted ornament signs. For example, referring to fig.4A and 4B again, if a user wants to add a repeat sign as shown in row 3, fig.4B, into a bar, the user first selects the bar, then selects a desired repeat sign button 4043 in row 3, fig.4B. As a result, a repeat modifier is added into the bar, as shown in fig.4D. Fig.4D shows a case where a repeat sign 4043 has been added into a bar. If a user wants to cancel a paragraph repeat, the user can select a cancel repeat button 4044 in row 3, flg.4B. Thus, the paragraph repeat signs of bars in the range selected are all canceled. If the user does not select a range, a paragraph repeat sign of the bar where cursor is located currently is canceled. Whereas, when a user selects button 4045 in fϊg.4B to make or modify a paragraph mark, selecting a range covered by a paragraph repeat sign is not necessary; and what is needed is only making a cursor within the range that a paragraph repeat sign will apply to. [0056] Fig.5A to 5C and Fig.6A. to 6C show examples of editing a ornament sign, which are similar to those shown in fig.4A, 4B and 4D. Fig.5A to 5C show adding/canceling a staccato, a short staccato and a legato respectively. For example, a segment of notes is selected, as shown in fig.5B, then a short staccato button 5011 of buttons shown in fig.5A is clicked, a short staccato is thus added into the segment of notes, as shown in fig.5C. Fig.5C shows a case where a short staccato has been added into the segment shown in fig.5B. Other operations can be carried out in a similar way.

[0057] Fig.6 A to 6C show a case where grace notes are being edited respectively. For example, there are a preceding grace note button (6011) and a following grace note button (6012) in dialog box (601) of fig.6A. A user can make preceding grace note (fϊg.6B) and following grace note(fig.6C) in a similar way to that described above. [0058] Fig.7A to 7C show a demonstrative method for adding music attributes. As shown in fig.7A to 7C, a user can insert/modify a music attribute of a piece of music being edited currently by selecting a music attribute. Alternatively, a user can edit a piece of music by inputting a corresponding music attribute directly other than selecting from a tool bar. [0059] Although parts of the processes are given as examples, the invention provides a method and tool for making or canceling all signs. Similarly, other signs can be added or changed. Additionally, a user can use other ways to change signs, such as one key on a keyboard, a combination of several keys, or a combination of a mouse and a keyboard, and the ways are not limited to the methods of above examples. [0060] In a process of changing numbered musical notation data, intelligent prompt and input error correction can be done in accordance with the syntax of numbered musical notation. Therefore, a user can get pleasant experiences and operate efficiently.

[0061] Fig.8 is a flowchart of a method for implementing intelligent prompts and input error correction. At step S21, a table for syntax of numbered musical notation is loaded. The syntax table contains syntax rules of numbered musical notation. In fact, the syntax rules are preferably predefined in a syntax table. The syntax table is stored in a storage device of a system implementing the invention beforehand, for example, a non- volatile storage device 180 of a computer 100. The syntax table is loaded into a system memory 120 of the system and made available for a user as needed. [0062] Then, the process proceeds to step S22 in order to change numbered musical notation data. The numbered musical notation data are changed according the converted external input. At step S23, existing numbered musical notation data and currently changed numbered musical notation data are used to look up in the syntax table in accordance with max matching rule. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S24, where following actions are taken according to results of the looking up: if a partial match is found, numbered musical notation data to be changed are prompted in accordance with the syntax table, and a user can change the data, for example, by only selecting a choice; if an error that breaks the syntax rales is found in the changed content, a user is prompted to correct it. [0063] After a user takes an action in accordance with a prompt described above, the process returns to step S22 and repeats the process until the user stops changing numbered musical notation data. [0064] In addition to changing numbered musical notation data, editing a numbered musical notation file according to the invention also changes attributes of the data being edited to change the format thereof, which facilitates layout and display, such that a edited numbered musical notation file is displayed, stored and outputted in a clear, beautiful and convenient way. Thereinafter, a process for changing attributes of numbered musical notation data is discussed by referring to fig.9. Fig.9 is a flowchart of an editing process for changing an attribute. [0065] At step S31, a user using input devices, such as a mouse, keyboard, inputs a command by a shortcut key, a menu or a tool bar. Then, the above input is converted into a corresponding editing command in accordance the input mapping rales. Next, the process proceeds to step S32. At step S 32, an attribute value associated with the numbered musical notation data is changed in accordance with the converted command. This change can be achieved by assigning a new value to the corresponding attribute. Other ways also can be used. Upon an attribute value of the numbered musical notation data has been changed, contents of a display 107 is refreshed to display the changed contents in a way indicated by the changed attribute value (step S 32). However, the above input process and editing process are all illustrative, other convenient ways can be used, too. [0066] Actually, for the purpose of easiness to edit, the invention provides some templates. A user can select a template in creating a file. The invention provides various templates. For example, one template is designed to arrange a title by using a title box, and another is designed to arrange a title without using a title box. [0067] Additionally, the invention offers SBC/DBC case input and many specific fonts, which facilitates editing a numbered musical notation file. For example, fig.10 shows an example, HanSimple font, of the fonts. This font is used to avoid conflicting with an underline of an N divided note (for example, an "i" of courier new font is easily misconceived as having an underline). Another example of fonts provided by the invention is HanSimple Bold. This font can be used to display bold effect without selecting BOLD option. Still another example of fonts provided by the invention is HanSimple Narrow. The width of this font is half of that of normal font, so that a narrow font is provided to meet some requirements of editing. The invention also provides other fonts, and these fonts can be selected to set or change attributes of numbered musical notation data.

[0068] In addition to changing font, changing format by changing an attribute includes changing distance between rows and distance between words, etc., as carried out in other general text editing. A user can use a keyboard, a mouse or a combination of them to make a change. A user also can input a command directly, or select a menu option or a button in a tool bar to make a change. [0069] In addition to typical editing formats, the invention provides format attributes and a method adaptable to edit a numbered musical notation file. For example, fig.HA to HD show an example of one of them. Fig.l lA to HD show an example for adjusting automatic alignment of bars. A user can select an aligning item in fig.l IA to align bars accordingly. Fig. HB shows an original bar. Fig.11 C shows a case in which a bar is adjusted by using !4 beat as a unit and then distances between notes are adjusted. Fig.l ID shows a case in which a bar is adjusted by using ¹A beat as a unit and then distances between notes are adjusted. Aligning bars can be carried out in several ways, such as a real time and dynamic aligning, a batch and whole aligning after the numbered musical notation data are finalized. Moreover, a user can select a unit to be used to align. [0070] Changing an attribute also can be used to edit other contents, such as a picture. In fact, editing process is a repeat process, which continually changes numbered musical notation data, changes attributes of the data to change formats thereof, until effects the user is satisfied with are achieved and the process ends. In addition to numbered musical notation signs, an edited numbered musical notation file can include pictures and various words inserted by a user. Thus, the layout of an edited file could be more beautiful, and have a personalized property. An edited file can be stored as a music file or printed as a part of a music book. In summary, a user can make further process on an edited file as needed. [0071] Another embodiment of the invention can play back changed playable numbered musical notation data while editing it as shown in step S3 of fig.2, which facilitates the user to listen and determine whether contents being inputted currently are desirable or not. Moreover, the invention can play back a segment of a score selectively, or play back a whole piece of music. For example, a user can select a play back button 402 or 403 in a tool bar 303 of fig.4A, wherein the button 402 represents play back from current cursor, the button 403 represents play back from the begin. Additionally, a user can select from a tool bar repeat playing, an interval between repeats, such as no interval, 5 seconds, 10 seconds and 30 seconds, and other play back property. Thereinafter, a play back process will be described in conjunction with fig.13. Fig.13 is a flowchart of a play back method according to the invention. [0072] At step S41, a play back action table is loaded. A play back action table contains play back action rules, wherein play back action rules specify various play back actions corresponding to those of various score data. Thus play back action rules are defined in accordance with sound rules of numbered musical notation data. Various proper sound devices, such as a speaker, can emit corresponding sounds in accordance with the rules. Preferably, the play back action table is stored in a storage device of a system implementing the invention, such as a non-volatile storage device 180 of a computer 100. The table is loaded into, for example, a system memory 120 of the system when needed, and became available for users.

[0073] Then, at step S42, a piece of music to be played back is loaded and displayed on display 107. The step can be carried out, for example, by loading a numbered musical notation file stored in non- volatile storage device 180 into system memory 120. If a numbered musical notation file is being edited, the loading process is not needed since there is a file currently.

[0074] At step S43, analysis on data in a numbered musical notation file to be played back currently is performed to obtain play back data in accordance with the play back action rules noted above. This analysis can be performed in accordance with the syntax of numbered musical notation, or in a way, which is similar to that of a compile system. [0075] Then, at step S44, an audio adapter 165 outputs corresponding analog signals to an audio output device 166 based on the obtained play back data. Thus, the corresponding music is played back. [0076] In the above play back process, a change of play back position can be indicated by the change of a cursor displayed on a display 107, or play back progress can be represented by color or other characters of numbered musical notation data (position) currently being played back. [0077] Today, other numbered musical notation play back software is able to provide some play back functions. However, play back functions provided by them are too simple. These play back functions can only either play back basic numbered musical notation signs or implement repeats partially. For example, the former can play back basic numbered musical notation signs, but can not represent a part of ornament signs; and the later can not play back repeats completely. Additionally, the existing software can not simulate a real music play. [0078] However, unlike existing method, a play back method according to the invention can play back all playable signs. For example, various signs, such as a sharp/flat sign, a facial expression sign, an forever sign, a repeat sign, a tempo sign. For example, as for a short staccato sign shown in fϊg.SC, the strength is stronger and length is shorter (only ¹A length, whereas a staccato is of Vz length) than a normal note when being played back. For example, a proceeding grace note and a following grace note shown in fϊg.6B and fig.6C respectively are slightly sounded when being played back. When playing back, the length of a grace note with two underlines is only ¹A of that of the leaned note; the length of a grace note with three underlines is 1/8 of that of the leaned note. For example, a method according to the invention can play back the score Lan Hua Hua shown in a window 301 of fig.3 based on melody, rhythms and beats thereof, and also can simulate a triangular piano according to a indication of a score to play back it. Additionally, in accordance with tones and a chord of a score, software according to the invention can play back the score with automatic accompaniment. The software also can play back complex repeats in a score. [0079] For example, repeats in a score are very complex. A repeat sign can span a lot of contents. Repeat signs may jump reiteratively so that contents specified by repeat signs should be played back arbitrarily multiple times in accordance with the repeat signs. The existing software for playing back a numbered musical notation file can not implement completely repeats. However, a method according to the invention for playing back a numbered musical notation file can implement completely repeats.

[0080] Even though a user wants to play back a score with more complex multiple voice parts, a method accordance to the invention for playing back a numbered musical notation file can accurately simulate play back, and insert random delays among the multiple voice parts to achieve play back with tiny shift among multiple voice parts, which can naturally simulate a real performance played by a band. In a case that is supported by multiple audio adapters, the method can simulate a performance played by an orchestra. [0081] Moreover, a key on a keyboard can be set as a function key used for playing back. For example, a + key can be used for increasing pitch and a - key for decreasing pitch. [0082] An embodiment according to the invention is described above by taking a numbered musical notation file as an example. In fact, the invention can be applied to other scores similarly, such as a staff. [0083] Moreover, the invention includes a system implementing an editing and/or playing back method above described. In addition to an input/output device, a storage device for storing various data (including middle data), and other common devices, the system comprises a score- editing unit and/or a score play back unit. The score-editing unit creates and/or edits a score file in a text way, and designs layouts of a page of the file. The score play back unit can play back the above score.

[0084] The score-editing unit and the score play back unit implement primarily steps of the above-described methods. The main operations performed by them are described as follows. [0085] A score editing unit first loads from a storage device an input mapping table containing input mapping rules, which define mapping relations between input signals and score data, editing commands. Then, it creates/loads a score file comprising score data on/from a storage device. After creating/loading a score file, it converts an input from external device according to above input mapping rules, and edits the score data contained in the score file in a text-editing way according to the converted input, and then accomplishes a layout design of the score file.

[0086] A score play back unit first loads a play back action table, which contains score play back action rules, wherein the play back action rules define various play back actions corresponding to those of various score data. Then, it analyses a score file and obtains play back data in accordance with the play back action rules, wherein the play back data corresponds to all score data and attributes in the score file which can be played back. After obtaining the play back data, it is outputted to an audio device and the score file is reproduced.

[0087] The above score editing unit and score play back unit can operate as individual components respectively, also can operate as plug- ins of various word processors. Moreover, both units can be combined into a single component, which operates individually or as a plug-in of various word processors.

[0088] The preferred embodiments have been described above. Although the invention is described in specific embodiments, the invention can be implemented in hardware, software, firmware or a combination thereof, and applied to a system, subsystem and parts or subparts thereof.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A method for editing a score file, which creates/edits a score file in a text-editing way and makes layouts design of the score file, in a word processor.

2. A method for editing a score file according to Claim 1, includes steps:

In the word processor, loading an input mapping table containing input mapping rules, which define mapping relations between input signals and score data, editing commands;

Creating or loading a score file containing score data; and Converting an input from external device in accordance with the input mapping rules, and editing the score data contained in the score file in the text-editing way according to the converted input, and then accomplishing the layouts design of the score file.

3. A method for editing a score file according to Claim 1, wherein the score data comprises score signs, texts and pictures.

4. A method for editing a score file according to Claim 1, wherein the score data is associated with one or more of the following attributes: font, size, distance, color, breadth height ratio, rising/descending, bold, italic, underline, delete line, emphasis, rising/descending tone, music sentence line, tie, duration and slur sign.

5. A method for editing a score file according to Claim 4, wherein the editing step includes changing score data and/or changing a score attribute.

6. A method for editing a score file according to Claim 5, wherein the changing score data includes inputting newly score data into the score file, and copying, pasting, and deleting the score data.

7. A method for editing a score file according to Claim 1, wherein the editing step includes operations as follows:

Loading a score syntax table containing score syntax rules; Changing the score data in the score file in accordance with the converted input;

Looking up in the score syntax table to match the score data with the score syntax rules; and

Taking a prompt action in accordance with the result of the matching.

8. A method for editing a score file according to Claim 7, wherein the operation for looking up in the score syntax table includes looking up in the score syntax table, based on currently changed score data and one or more score data stored previously, to find a sequence of the score data that most matches.

9. A method for editing a score file according to Claim 7, wherein the operation for taking a prompt action includes, based on the sequence of the score data that most matches found in the looking up operation, if an error is found in the currently inputted score data, a prompt for correcting the currently error input is given, and otherwise, a prompt for the score data to be inputted continually is given. 10. A method for editing a score file according to Claim 5, wherein the operation for changing the attribute of the score data includes steps:

Converting an input from external device for changing a format according to the input mapping rules;

Changing the attribute associated with the score data according to the converted input; and

Displaying a score file on a display in changed format according to the changed attribute.

11. A method for editing a score file according to Claim 1 or 2, further includes a step for playing back the score file.

12. A method for editing a score file according to Claim 2, wherein the step for creating or loading a score file establishes the file on the basis of a predefined template.

13. A method for editing a score file according to Claim 2, wherein the step for creating or loading a score file includes steps for loading a file in first format, converting it into a file in second format, and then loading it into the word processor.

14. A method for editing a score file according to Claim 1 or 2, further includes a step for storing the score file. 15. A method for editing a score file according to Claim 1 or 2, further includes a step for printing the score file in a WYSIWYG way.

16. A method for playing back a score file edited in a word processor.

17. A method for playing back a score file according to Claim 16, includes steps: Loading a play back action table containing score play back action rules, wherein the play back action rules define various play back actions corresponding to those of various score data;

Analysing the score file in accordance with the playback action rules to obtain play back data, wherein the play back data corresponds to all playable score data and attributes in the score file; and

Outputting the play back data into an audio device to reproduce the score file.

18. A method for playing back a score file according to Claim 16 or 17, further includes a step for displaying a mark on the display of the score file synchronously, the mark indicates a playing position currently.

19.A method for playing back a score file according to Claim 16 or 17, further includes a step for playing back a chord with automatic accompaniment.

20. A method for playing back a score file according to Claim 16 or 17, further includes a step for playing back in accordance with tones.

2 LA method for playing back a score file according to Claim 16 or 17, further includes a step for playing back with tiny shift among multiple voice parts.

22. A system for editing a score file, which has a function for word processing, the system creates/edits a score file in a text-editing way and makes layouts design of the score file.

23. A system for editing a score file according to Claim 22, wherein the system has a function for playing back the score file.

24. A system for editing a score file according to Claim 22, comprises: An input/output device;

A storage device for storing an input mapping table, a score file and middle data; and A score file editing unit for performing the following operations:

From the storage device, loading an input mapping table containing input mapping rules, which define mapping relations between input signals and score data, editing commands;

Creating or loading a score file containing score data from the storage device; and

Converting an input from external device in accordance with the input mapping rules, editing the score data contained in the score file in the text-editing way according to the converted input, and then accomplishing the layouts design of the score file. 25. A system for editing a score file according to Claim 24, wherein the score file editing unit is an individual component or a plug-in of a word processor.

26. A system for editing a score file according to Claim 24, further comprises a score play back unit for playing back the score file.

27. A system for playing back a score, comprises: An input/output device, which comprises an audio device; A storage device for storing a play back action table, a score file and middle data; and A score playback unit for performing the following operations:

From the storage device, loading a play back action table containing score play back action rules, wherein the play back action rules define various play back actions corresponding to those of various score data; Analysing the score file in accordance with the play back action rules to obtain play back data, wherein the play back data corresponds to all playable score data and attributes in the score file; and

Outputting the play back data into an audio device to reproduce the score file.

2&. A system for playing back a score according to Claim 27, wherein the score play back unit is an individual component or a plug-in of a word processor.

29. A system has a word processing /layout design function for a score file and a function for playing back a score.

30. A system according to Claim 29, comprises:

An input/output device, which comprises an audio device; A storage device for storing an input mapping table, a play back action table, a score file and middle data; A score file editing unit for performing the following operations:

From the storage device, loading an input mapping table containing input mapping rules, which define mapping relations between input signals and score data, editing commands; Creating or loading a score file containing score data from the storage device; and

Converting an input from external device in accordance with the input mapping rules, editing the score data contained in the score file in the text-editing way according to the converted input, and then accomplishing the layouts design of the score file; and A score play back unit for performing the following operations:

From the storage device, loading a play back action table containing score play back action rules, wherein the play back action rules define various play back actions corresponding to those of various score data;

Analysing the score file in accordance with the play back action rules to obtain play back data, wherein the play back data corresponds to all playable score data and attributes in the score file; and

Outputting the play back data into an audio device to reproduce the score file.

31. A system according to Claim 30, wherein the score file editing unit and the score playback unit are individual components or a plug-ins of a word processor respectively, or combined into a single component or plug-in.