Symphony Pro

Active

Country: United States (US)
Founded: 2010
Developer: Independent developer (contact via symphonypro.net)
Pricing: Free download with in-app purchase for Handwriting Recognition
Open source: No
Platforms: iOS, macOS

Indexes

Music Notation

Overview

Symphony Pro is a music notation and composition app for entering, editing, and playing back scores using standard notation or tablature. It supports ensembles of various sizes on iPad, iPhone, and macOS devices, with input via Apple Pencil, touch, on-screen keyboards, or MIDI.¹²

Key Features

Handwriting Recognition - Supports writing and editing notation with Apple Pencil or touch input.
Instrument Playback - Includes 24+ acoustic instruments and 114 total for playback and auditioning.
Export Options - Exports to PDF, MusicXML, MIDI, AAC, or Symphony file formats.
MIDI Input - Step-time and real-time recording with low lag using MIDI devices.
Multi-note Editing - Select and edit properties of multiple notes and rests simultaneously.
Customizable Layout - Adjustable score layout, stem directions, note beaming, and part groupings.
Accessibility - QWERTY keyboard support for VoiceOver screen reader for visually impaired users.
Gestures and Shortcuts - Dozens of gestures, shortcuts, and unlimited undo/redo for navigation and editing.

Pricing

Plan	Price	Includes
Base App	Free	Core notation features, 114 instruments, exports; Handwriting as IAP.

Platforms & Requirements

Available on iPad, iPhone (universal app), and macOS (M1 and later). Optimized for Apple Pencil on iPad Pro; supports touch and capacitive stylus. MIDI input pairs directly within the app on iOS.¹²⁴

Integrations & Ecosystem

MusicXML import/export
MIDI import/export
PDF export
AAC audio export
Symphony file format
AirPlay streaming
MIDI input devices

Alternatives

App	Difference
Finale	Desktop-focused with broader platform support but less mobile handwriting integration.
Sibelius	Professional desktop notation with advanced engraving, lacks native iOS handwriting.
Notion 6	Cross-platform notation with audio integration, but different input gesture focus.
StaffPad	Advanced handwriting recognition on iPad with AI playback, higher cost.

Reputation

Symphony Pro is recognized for innovative Apple Pencil handwriting and accessibility features for visually impaired users via VoiceOver, setting a standard among mobile apps. Users appreciate MIDI input, professional sound quality, and gesture-based editing, though some note it's iOS/macOS exclusive limiting cross-platform use. Version 6 improvements enhance reliability and customization.¹²⁴

Sources (6)