Abstract: The invention relates to a method and system for assessing a performance of a musical composition in relation to a model performance of the same composition. In particular, as even a model performance does not follow a score of a composition precisely, the present invention initially correlates the model performance to a score of the performed composition. This allows for an accurate assessment of the timing of the assessable performance, relative to the timing of the model performance. The invention is of particular use where the assessable performance is performed along with the model performance, but the two performances are remote from each other.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method of obtaining a user selection in a software system, from a user with a musical instrument. One or more musical sounds are associated with each of a plurality of selectable objects (e.g. icons, menu items), which are provided to a user on a display. Musical audio is then received from the user, by playing on the musical instrument (e.g. guitar). The audio input may be received via a microphone or other audio input device. Then, the audio signal is analysed to determine whether the user played the one or more musical sounds associated with a selectable object. If so, that object is selected.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method of processing musical information. A user can perform a musical piece, using a real musical instrument (e.g. a guitar), which is received as audio input. The audio input is then assessed to determine whether it meets various quality standards—for example, whether the user played at the right pitch, at the right time, or at the right volume. If the audio input meets the standards, audio output is then provided of a professional performance of the musical piece, such that it sounds as if the user is performing the professional audio. The standards can be adjusted to different levels, depending on the user's skill on the musical instrument. At an easy level, low standards may be applied, such that even unskilled or beginner musicians can sound like a professional. For more skilled users, the standards may be more difficult to meet.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of displaying a musical composition for a musical instrument, comprising displaying at least a portion of the musical instrument; displaying, on the musical instrument, a fingering position indicator, indicating a fingering position that is becoming due to be played; and displaying a timing indicator indicating when the fingering position is due to be played. The fingering position indicator may comprise one or more marks on the musical instrument, and the timing indicator may comprise an object moving towards the fingering position indicator on the musical instrument, wherein the object reaches the musical instrument when the fingering position is due to be played.