capella
capella: A desktop score editor with playback, part extraction and collaborative file editing. Ranked #13 of 38 in Music Notation Software by our editors (7.9/10); pricing: 15-day trial; best for desktop score writers who need part sharing.
At a glance
- Editor score7.9 / 10
- Pricing15-day trial
- Best forDesktop score writers who need part sharing
- Free planNo
- DeploymentDesktop
- Facts checked19 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Extract instrumental parts live or with one click.
- Exchange scores through MusicXML and MIDI, and export PDF, MP3 or WAV.
- Share scores and edit files with other capella users.
Where it doesn't
- Runs on Windows and macOS only.
- There is no permanent free plan; access starts with paid licenses or subscriptions.
- The capella start plan is described as a small version, limiting its stated scope.
Our verdict on capella
capella is desktop music notation software for Windows and macOS, aimed at amateur and professional musicians, including composers, arrangers, choir directors and ensemble leaders. It covers note entry by keyboard, mouse piano or directly on the score, editing and layout controls, playback and rehearsal functions. That makes it relevant to writers who need more than page layout, especially those preparing parts for players or sharing scores with fellow capella users.
Part handling is a notable strength. capella can extract instrumental parts live or with one click, supports guitar tablature, and provides score sharing and mutual file editing. MusicXML and MIDI import and export offer exchange routes, while scores can also be shared through compatible formats, the capella score reader app, or file exchange with other capella users. Playback includes a metronome, count-in, looping and soundfonts; VST3 sampler support adds an option for using samplers. These functions suit ensemble workflows, though the collaboration described is tied to score and file exchange rather than a stated online workspace.
The product is paid, with a 15-day full-feature trial and no permanent free plan. Its options include capella start, a small version; capella, with sophisticated notation, rehearsal functions, special functions and plugins; and monthly and annual subscriptions, which include ongoing new features. The annual plan is described as annual payment. Export choices include PDF, MP3 and WAV. Choose capella if desktop score editing, part preparation and file-based collaboration match your workflow. If you need a permanent free option or a platform beyond Windows and macOS, this is not the fit described here.
Your product? Our editors can test capella in depth and publish a review, labelled as paid · from $149/mo →
capella pricing
All 4 capella plans and prices →
capella fact sheet
| Free plan | No |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Not verified |
| Deployment | Desktop |
| MusicXML support | Yes |
| MIDI support | Yes |
| Parts extraction | Yes |
| Tablature support | Yes |
| Collaboration features | Yes |
| Free trial | 15 days |
| Deployment | Desktop |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS |
| Integrations | 2 integrations: Musicalion.com, VST3 samplers |
| Pricing | 15-day trial (source) |
| Website | capella-software.com |
| Facts checked | 19 Sep 2026 |
capella integrations
capella lists 2 integrations on its own site.
- Musicalion.com
- VST3 samplers
Alternatives to capella
- DoricoA full notation and engraving workflow, with free editions and a 60-day trial.9.3
- SibeliusSibelius combines detailed score creation with browser-based sharing and review.9.2
- MuseScore StudioA capable desktop notation editor with MusicXML, MIDI, parts, playback, and exports at no cost.9.1
See all capella alternatives →
Also Ranked In
capella is ranked in 3 of our directories.
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Featured on iTechGuides
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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