Music Central
Music is an essential part of life for many, learn about the ways music can be more accessible for blind and partially sighted people. Below are ways RNIB and Bookshare can support you getting accessible music.
We have a small amount of music available on RNIB Bookshare - generally pieces required for GCSE and A-level exams, and music grade exams. We also have some tuition books for specific instruments. There are some examples at the bottom of this page. Please note that music is currently only available in PDF format from RNIB Bookshare.
Elsewhere at RNIB, braille music is available from our Music Library and Modified Stave Notation is available from our Music Transcription Service. For more information, read the music information on our main website and our ‘Guide to requesting accessible music from RNIB’.
How to search for music on RNIB Bookshare
The best way to search for music on RNIB Bookshare is with the ISBN or Title. You can search our library for the music you need at the top of the page in the search function. If there is a piece of music that you need and you are unable to find it we have a Request a Book feature that will allow you to contact us so we can reach out to the publisher.
Support and Advice for Musicians
Our Helpline, supported by our Music Team, supports people with sight loss in any aspect of making music. You can read more at the main RNIB Music page.
If you'd like further information, or have a specific query, please get in touch:
- Email: helpline@rnib.org.uk
- Telephone: 0303 123 9999
RNIB Music Transcription Service
RNIB’s Transcription team can convert your print music notation into Modified Stave Notation (large print) or braille.
Our highly skilled team of transcribers have individually amassed over 20 years’ experience in turning the most complex scores into accessible outputs. We work with individual customers as well as examining boards, schools, universities, and commercial organisations to provide music for exams, study, performances, or leisure. We can also offer a modification service for examinations.
Our service is ISO 9001, 22301 and 27001 accredited. For more information about the service, see our page about RNIB’s Modified Stave Notation and braille music transcribers.
To enquire, please email: transcription@rnib.org.uk.
For more information about the process and formats available, please read our ‘Guide to requesting accessible music from RNIB’.
Accessible Music Notation
Music can be presented in various accessible formats. The main formats for accessible stave notation are:
- Modified Stave Notation
- Braille music
- Digital scores, such as MusicXML files, that can be explored using notation software
- Talking scores
Some people use a combination of these. Whilst traditionally music has been read in hardcopy, the trend is towards digital reading and listening on portable electronic devices.
Examples of Accessible Music Notation
Original Notation
Modified Stave Notation
Learn More About Modified Stave Notation external link
Braille Music
Learn More About Braille Music external Link
Talking Scores
Learn More About Talking Scores external link
Four sharps, three four, Bar 1 mid E, G, A, bar 2, B minim, high C, bar 3, mid A, G minim, bar 4 , F minim
External Resources:
Examples of Music on RNIB Bookshare
Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM)
- Music Theory in Practice, Grade 2 (PDF)
- Music Theory In Practice, Grade 3 (PDF)
- Music Theory In Practice, Grade 4 (PDF)
- Music Theory In Practice: Grade 5 (PDF)
- Symphony No 104: First movement, three-part arrangement (PDF)
- Symphony No 104: second movement (three-part arrangement) (PDF)
- Symphony No. 104: Third movement (three-part arrangement) (PDF)
- Symphony No. 104: fourth movement (three-part arrangement) (PDF)