LilyPond

At a glance

• Editor score
  8.5 / 10
• Pricing
  Free plan
• Best for
  Users who prefer text-based engraving
• Free plan
  Yes
• Paid from
  Free
• Deployment
  Desktop
• Facts checked
  19 Sep 2026

• Where it wins

  • Text input supports customized engraved sheet-music output
  • Imports MusicXML and MIDI through command-line tools
  • Prepares parts and supports tablature, lead sheets, and MIDI output

• Where it doesn't

  • Text-first entry is more specialized than graphical score editing
  • Importing MusicXML or MIDI relies on command-line tools
  • Desktop software may not suit users seeking a browser-based workflow

Our verdict on LilyPond

LilyPond turns text-based music input into engraved sheet music. It is aimed at musicians, arrangers, and educators who prefer describing notation in text rather than entering notes through a graphical score editor. The program supports classical, vocal, orchestral, educational, lead-sheet, and tablature work, with instrumental parts preparation and MIDI output. It is open source under the GNU General Public License, and official desktop downloads are available for Windows, macOS, and GNU/Linux.

Its key distinction is the text-first engraving workflow. That approach makes customized print output central to the product, while the breadth of supported notation extends from vocal and lead-sheet work to orchestral parts and tablature. MusicXML and MIDI files can be imported using the musicxml2ly and midi2ly command-line tools; LilyPond can also generate MIDI output. This combination suits people who want an editable text representation alongside printed notation, but users who prefer direct graphical score editing may find another notation editor a better fit.

LilyPond is free and open source, so the published product details identify no paid plan tiers to compare. Its platform coverage is desktop-focused, with downloads for Windows, macOS, and GNU/Linux. Buyers should choose it when text-based engraving and control over printed output matter more than a graphical input workflow. Those seeking an interface centered on visual note entry, or a browser-based collaboration workflow, should consider alternatives better suited to those priorities.

Your product? Our editors can test LilyPond in depth and publish a review, labelled as paid · from $149/mo →

LilyPond pricing

LilyPond fact sheet

Alternatives to LilyPond

• DoricoA full notation and engraving workflow, with free editions and a 60-day trial.9.3
• SSibeliusSibelius 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 LilyPond alternatives →

LilyPond vs the competition

• LLilyPond vs Dorico
• LSLilyPond vs Sibelius
• LLilyPond vs MuseScore Studio
• LFNLilyPond vs Fender Notion
• LLilyPond vs Flat
• LLilyPond vs Noteflight

Compare LilyPond with any tool side by side →

Featured on iTechGuides

LilyPond is listed in our Music Notation Software directory. Add the badge to your site — it links back to this page.

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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026

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Last updated 7 Oct 2026 · How we research and update