Convert from
Finale to Dorico

Transition seamlessly.

Future-proof your sheet music from obsolescence.

Finale, sheet music notation software, is no longer being developed, but users can still access previously purchased versions. MakeMusic has partnered with Steinberg to offer Dorico as an alternative. Finale v27 will be available to Dorico Pro cross-grade customers and onboarding resources to support the transition.

For further information, you can read our blog post.

Export MusicXML from Finale

To ensure you can access your work in other music notation applications, export your Finale project files (.musx or .mus) into the MusicXML file format (.mxl, .musicxml, or .xml).

To export a Finale project file as a MusicXML file, follow these steps:

1

Go to File > Export > MusicXML.

A Finder window (on Mac) or File Explorer window (on Windows) will open.

2

Choose a name and select a destination for your MusicXML file, then click Save.

Import MusicXML to Dorico

To ensure you can access your Finale catalog in Dorico, you can just import your MusicXML file format. You can do so by following these steps:

3

Open Import Menu: Go to File > Import > MusicXML.

4

Select Files:
Choose the MusicXML files you want to import from the File Explorer or Finder.

Alternatively, right-click on the XML file and Open with > Dorico.

Important TIPS

You can also open MusicXML files directly if you want them to be separate projects rather than new flows in existing projects.

You can change your default preferences for the handling of imported MusicXML files on the MusicXML Import page in Preferences.

Like any file, MusicXML files are prone to corruption over time. Plus, importing XML files into sheet music software can turn your beautiful score into a hot mess – think jumbled notes, missing dynamics, and a layout that’s all over the place.

But don’t worry, we’ve got the magic touch to clean up those imports, fix the layout chaos, and ensure every detail of your music shines through. By now refining and securing your files, you’re taking a crucial step toward safeguarding your music catalog against future changes and technology shifts.

Let’s ensure your music stands the test of time and obsolescence.