Is it possible to save a Sibelius score as a MIDI file using the VDL sounds?? 

I have tried saving MIDI files and get really crummy playback, partial playback and a number of other no so good results.

Any ideas??

A midi file in theory is not a music file.  It is a file of information.  Saving a Sibelius score as a midi file will not retain the VDL:2 sounds unless the person on the receiving end of the file has VDL:2.  In which case, they can open the file, load the proper library and hear it played back.

Well then is there any way I can save a Sibelius score as some type of sound file (i.e. mp.3 or something else)??  I want to be able to send the music to my students so they can listen to their parts, but none of them have VDL or Sibelius.

You need software that allows you to record ";what you hear"; through the computer speakers. I like ";#1 Sound Recorder"; - it is a good program at a very reasonable price. Hit F5 to start recording, then start the Sibelius playback. The resulting file can be saved as a .WAV or converted to .MP3. Very slick, and very simple.

You can find #1 at this site (they also have a demo):
http://www.aonesoft.com/

Good luck!
McC

I personally use Cakewalk Music Creator. It utilizes the VST Plug-In and is reasonably priced. It interfaces in a similar way as all of the other Cakewalk products so it could easily be a stepping stone for someone who eventually wants to learn Sonar as well.

[quote author=drumcorpbc link=topic=1250.msg5422#msg5422 date=1153347999]
A midi file in theory is not a music file.�� It is a file of information.�� Saving a Sibelius score as a midi file will not retain the VDL:2 sounds unless the person on the receiving end of the file has VDL:2.�� In which case, they can open the file, load the proper library and hear it played back.
[/quote]

Bill,

That is the PERFECT explanation of how a midi file works.  You rock!