Live Demo of Braille Music Translation Using Sao Mai Braille (SMB), Thursday 21 November at 7:00 PM

As a follow-up to their MuseScore Studio demo last month, Sound Without Sight is excited to announce their next Monthly Meet-up, which will feature a live demo of Sao Mai Braille (SMB) and its ability to translate MusicXML files to braille! They will again welcome James Bowden, Braille Technical Officer at RNIB, whose feedback has been influential throughout the development of SMB so far.

The demo will cover a range of topics, including:

  • Overview of the SMB app.
  • Download and installation.
  • The transcription process, beginning with a MusicXML file and converting to a BRF file, ready for embossing to hardcopy braille or reading on a braille display.
  • Important options and settings to be aware of, including music profiles.
  • Considerations for common types of score (single line, keyboard, vocal, orchestral).
  • Selecting an individual part from an ensemble score.
  • Music navigation mode.

The demonstration will last around 60 minutes, with a further 30 minutes for questions. This will be a relaxed, informal discussion and audience participation is encouraged. They will be prioritising questions submitted in advance of the event, so please use the field on the registration page or contact Sound Without Sight in advance with any questions you may have so that they can ensure that they are included in the discussion.

Please note that this session will be recorded and published on podcasting platforms, so if you contribute during the session, you are consenting to appearing in the recording. This session is open to all ages, but they advise that children or young people wishing to attend the session should be accompanied by an adult.

We hope to see you there!

Find out more and register for the Sao Mai Braille session.