[megmogandog]

I tried to learn LilyPond once but it was a bit too arcane for my taste. Now I use MuseScore, WYSIWYG notation program which is a lot more intuitive (and, like LilyPond, also released under the GPL).

I write relatively simple music, though, mostly lead sheets. I always imagined LilyPond would shine in more complex scoring situations.

[RogerL]

LilyPond rules when you want to manipulate music algorithmically. Like make a music reading training app that creates examples based on your performance so far.

[singingfish]

I've had a few attempts with algorithmic lilypond for some technical exercises. It's generally good for getting the basics out, but you either lose the advantages of `relative` mode, or end up with unreadable nonsense. So I find it's good for getting things started / 80% of the work done but then needs tweaks.

[xhevahir]

Seems like one of the libraries that can output Lilypond (like music21, mingus, abjad, or music-suite) would be better for that purpose.

[singingfish]

By way of being useful and for future reference for me:

music21: http://web.mit.edu/music21/

mingus: http://bspaans.github.io/python-mingus/index.html

abjad: https://abjad.github.io/

music-suite: https://music-suite.github.io/docs/ref/

[bitbckt]

I only use LilyPond for engraving, and MuseScore for input. They complement each other that way as a free software replacement for the usual commercial options.

[PaulDavisThe1st]

The (former, IIRC) product manager for MuseScore (aka @tantacrul) has claimed that he thinks that MuseScore is now doing better engraving than LilyPond. He has a vested interest, obviously, but he's also a smart and conscientious human being.

[bitbckt]

It is vastly improved, yes. I’m not ready to say it’s better.

[zwily]

I’ve tried MuseScore several times over the years and just this year realized that 4 is actually pretty dang good. I haven’t reached for anything in awhile.