September 05, 2023

As a musician, there’s nothing quite like the feeling of reading through a new song for the first time. Sheet music tells us what notes to play, when to carefully tiptoe through each staccato, and where the fortissimos are in a piece to string together a beautiful melody. And with the help of technology like 2-in-1 laptops, sheet music is more accessible than ever before. Learn how to use tablets and 2-in-1 laptops to play music.

What are the benefits of using a tablet or 2-in-1 laptop for sheet music?

If you are in a choir, orchestra, band, or a solo artist, you’ve probably dealt with the hassle that comes with organizing sheet music. It can take up so much space in your folder or three-ring binder, especially with lots of songs to practice or perform. Stopping every few seconds to flip to the next page can also be stressful during high-pressure situations like recitals or concerts.

Digital sheet music makes it much easier. Access your pieces on one screen and flip to the next part of the song by tapping the touchscreen for quick, seamless page transitions.

What to look for in a 2-in-1 laptop for sheet music

When choosing a tablet or 2-in-1 laptop for sheet music, look for a device that’s lightweight, portable, and capable of storing all your songs. Surface Pro 9 is a powerful 2-in-1 PC that combines tablet flexibility with laptop performance. It’s sleek and weighs just under 2 lbs, making it an excellent musical companion that’s easy to transport. Its battery lasts up to 15.5 hours when fully charged, so you don’t have to worry about running out of juice while you play.¹

Ways to use a Surface 2-in-1 laptop for sheet music

2-in-1 laptops and tablets change the way we read sheet music. Here are some ways to use your device during your next rehearsal or performance:

Detach your keyboard before using a music stand

Surface 2-in-1s can be connected to a detachable keyboard that’s just as easy to remove. Once detached, simply place the tablet on your music stand. If you don’t have a stand, use the built-in kickstand to prop up your screen.

Download your favorite sheet music app

Access your sheet music with an app that’s made for it. Open Microsoft App Store and search for sheet music apps to find the right program for you. You can also search for other helpful music tools, like a metronome app to ensure your tempo is right on time.

Mark up your music with a digital pen

Making changes to your digital sheet music just got easier. Digital pens like a Surface Slim Pen 2 allow you to add notes to your music or write in reminders to breathe. If you need to undo a correction, use the back of Surface Slim Pen 2 as an eraser.

Looking for more tips on using a Surface? Visit the Do more with Surface hub.