Export Sheet Music as PDF Using the Music Scanner ScanScore

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Export Sheet Music as PDF Using the Music Scanner ScanScore

 

Why Exporting Sheet Music as a PDF Matters

After scanning and correcting your score using a music scanner like ScanScore, the next logical step is to export your sheet music as a PDF.
Whether you’re printing for rehearsal, archiving your work, or sharing it with musicians, a clean PDF ensures clarity and consistency.

This article walks you through the PDF export process in ScanScore, explains key layout considerations, and helps you avoid common formatting mistakes.

Where to Find the PDF Export Option in ScanScore

You can export a PDF directly from ScanScore via the top menu:

Path:
File → Export PDF

There is no intermediate submenu — the export command is located directly in the file menu.

When Should You Export a PDF from Your Music Scanner?

Before exporting, make sure that:

  • All scan corrections have been made in Scan Mode

  • System breaks and page layouts look correct

  • No text overlaps are present (lyrics, chord symbols, etc.)

  • All voices and instruments are visible and correctly assigned

If you’ve made structural changes in Score Mode (like adding measures or parts), those edits should be finalized first as well.

Export from Scan Mode or Score Mode – Which Is Better?

ScanScore allows PDF exports from both working modes:

Exporting from Scan Mode:

  • Preserves the structure of the scanned original

  • Ideal for quick printouts after basic corrections

Exporting from Score Mode:

  • Access to additional layout options
    (measures per system, page margins, vertical staff spacing)

  • Best for custom arrangements, part extractions, or improved readability

Layout Tips Before Exporting Sheet Music as PDF

Well-formatted sheet music is easier to read and rehearse. Here’s what to check before exporting:

  • Set measures per system (available in Score Mode)

  • Control systems per page

  • Use the layout menu to vertically adjust staves

  • Double-check lyrics, chord symbols, and text placement

  • Review page margins, especially for ensemble scores

These tools are found in the Layout menu, accessible in Score Mode only.

What’s Included in the Exported PDF?

✔ Notes, symbols, lyrics, and visible musical content
✔ Full layout (breaks, systems, spacing)
✔ Transpositions or added parts
✔ Embedded fonts and print-ready formatting

✘ Not included:

  • Playback or audio (use MP3 export instead)

  • Editable music notation (use MusicXML for that)

Avoid These Common PDF Export Mistakes

  • Empty pages or cut-off measures:
    → Preview the layout before exporting

  • Text overlapping notation:
    → Adjust position or font size before export

  • Missing instruments or parts:
    → Check the “Organize” menu to ensure all parts are shown

Naming and Saving Your Sheet Music PDF

Use clear file names to make organizing and sharing easier:

ChoirPiece_SATB_corrected2026.pdf
Beethoven_5thSymphony_Trumpet_part_layout.pdf

Exported PDFs can be opened in any PDF viewer or sent directly to print.

Conclusion: Print-Ready PDF Scores from Your Music Scanner

ScanScore isn’t just a music scanner – it’s a powerful tool to create print-ready PDFs of your sheet music.
Once your corrections and layout are complete, exporting as a PDF ensures your score looks exactly the way you want – whether for rehearsal, teaching, or performance.

Take a moment to check your layout – it’ll make all the difference.

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