System and method for providing electronic scores

Abstract

A method of distributing digital sheet music for performance by multiple musicians. The method includes receiving a request for sheet music from a user device; obtaining, via a sheet music source, a set of sheet music components for a musical portion of a musical work associated with the request for sheet music; obtaining a transmission delay value associated with a communication path; providing, using a processor, at least one sheet music component of the set of sheet music components from the sheet music source and to the user device using a first distribution timing based on the obtained transmission delay value; and providing, to a different user device, a corresponding set of sheet music components for a different musical portion of the musical work based on a different transmission delay value associated with the different user device, as to enable coordinated playback by the users without a conductor.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This patent application claims priority and all benefits to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 840,097, filed April 29, 2019, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure pertains to music display, including but not limited to the display of electronic sheet music. Background Technology

[0004] Individual musicians and orchestras (such as symphony orchestras, symphony orchestras, and school production teams) have traditionally relied on printed loose-leaf sheet music to guide their studies, rehearsals, or performances. Whether playing solo or with a conductor, printed loose-leaf sheet music is easy to play. However, the large volume of printed loose-leaf sheet music requires corresponding physical storage space and can present challenges in terms of portability.

[0005] Recent methods include displaying loose-leaf sheet music on portable electronic devices. Specialized loose-leaf sheet music display software is available for tablets and other devices using common mobile operating systems. Dedicated devices for displaying electronic loose-leaf sheet music are also available.

[0006] This recent approach addresses some of the portability issues by providing electronic tracks equivalent to loose-leaf sheet music or digital songbooks, thus overcoming some of the drawbacks of printed loose-leaf sheet music. However, these newer methods retain some limitations associated with printed loose-leaf sheet music, such as those related to the display or presentation of the score.

[0007] We hope to improve the display of electronic sheet music. Attached Figure Description

[0008] Embodiments of this disclosure will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0009] Figure 1 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for distributing digital musical scores for performance by multiple musicians according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0010] Figure 2 A system for distributing digital musical scores for performance by multiple musicians, according to an embodiment of this disclosure, is shown.

[0011] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for distributing digital musical scores for performance by multiple musicians, according to another embodiment of this disclosure.

[0012] Figure 4A block diagram of a system for distributing digital musical scores for performance by multiple musicians, according to a further embodiment of this disclosure, is shown, and the system includes additional royalty components and synthesizer components.

[0013] Figure 5 An example of a display of a user device in a system for distributing digital sheet music, according to an embodiment of this disclosure, is shown.

[0014] Figure 6 An example of a virtual conductor's display is shown in a system and distribution method for distributing digital musical scores for performance by multiple musicians, according to embodiments of this disclosure.

[0015] Figure 7 Examples of public displays provided in association with systems and methods for distributing digital musical scores, according to embodiments of this disclosure, are shown.

[0016] Figure 8 A block diagram of a timing subsystem according to a further embodiment of this disclosure is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0017] A method for distributing digital sheet music for performance by multiple musicians, for example, without a conductor. The method includes: receiving a sheet music request from a user equipment; obtaining, via a sheet music source, a set of sheet music components representing musical parts of a musical work associated with the sheet music request; obtaining a transmission delay value associated with a communication path; based on the obtained transmission delay value, using a first allocation timing, providing at least one of the sheet music components from the sheet music source and using a processor to the user equipment; and providing a set of corresponding sheet music components representing different musical parts of the musical work to the different user equipments based on different transmission delays or delay values ​​associated with them.

[0018] To facilitate an understanding of the principles of this disclosure, reference will now be made to the features illustrated in the accompanying drawings, and these features will be described using specific language. However, it should be understood that this is not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Any changes and further modifications, as well as any further applications of the principles of this disclosure as described herein, are contemplated as would normally be expected by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that some features not relevant to this disclosure may not be shown in the accompanying drawings for clarity.

[0019] First, for ease of reference, certain terms used in this application and their meanings in the context are explained below. Where a term used herein is not defined below, the broadest definition given by one of skill in the art, such as that reflected in at least one printed publication or published patent, should be given. Furthermore, this process is not limited to the use of the terms shown below, as all equivalents, synonyms, new developments, and terms or processes serving the same or similar purposes are considered to be within the scope of this disclosure.

[0020] The term "score" refers to the visual representation of musical symbols used to perform a musical work. Loose-leaf score, whether in print or electronic form, is an example of score. Score can be a scanned version of a printed loose-leaf score or can be the original digital or electronic representation. Because embodiments of this disclosure relate to the digital or electronic representation of score, the term "score" is used interchangeably with electronic or digital score and is understood to refer to any electronic or digital representation of score.

[0021] The term "musical score component" refers to a digital or electronic component of a musical score. A musical score comprises a set of musical score components. For example, if the term musical score refers to the collection of all "pages" of a loose-leaf score of a particular musical work, then a musical score component refers to any subset of all the pages of a loose-leaf score. In an example embodiment, a musical score component may be equivalent to a "page" of a loose-leaf score, as formatted for a device that will display the score. In another embodiment, a musical score component may be a musically defined portion of a musical work, such as any range from notes, beats, markings, or measures to an entire movement, or alternatively, a phrase, verse, or refrain.

[0022] The term "score request" refers to a request for score from a score source. The request can be made by a user, originate from a user device, or both. In one implementation, a score request is generated on a user device, such as a computing device including a processor, in response to input from the user. For example, a user can input the name of a musical work via an interface provided on a computing device such as a tablet, and the processor of the computing device generates and sends the corresponding score request. The score request may include information related to the musical section the user desires, the user's skill level, or similar parameters. In one implementation, such parameters are input by the user. In another implementation, such parameters are obtained based on a stored user profile.

[0023] The term "musical score source" refers to a source of musical score, such as an electronic database. In an example implementation, the database includes multiple "musical parts" for each musical work, with a separate musical part provided for each of multiple instrumental and / or vocal parts, such as trumpet, bassoon, guitar, and / or soprano, alto, and bass. In an example implementation, the musical score source includes a database storing different musical parts with different skill or difficulty levels; for example, for the same musical work, the database may include a simple first violin part, an intermediate-skill first violin part, and a complex first violin part. Different musical parts for different instruments / voices and skill levels for the same musical work may be stored in the musical score source within a sheet music package.

[0024] The term "musician" refers to anyone involved in the creation or production of music. As used herein, a musician can refer to someone with or lacking any level of experience or skill, from a child taking their first music lesson to someone using a homemade instrument including a wooden spoon and a kitchen pot, to a percussion street artist, to an aspiring pop singer, to a professional orchestra member. A musician may participate in the creation or production of music through vocal or instrumental means, or both, or any other type of musical contribution to the performance or production of music. A musician may use any type of standard musical notation, such as notes on a staff, or alternative / non-standard musical notation or representations used to facilitate understanding or performance.

[0025] Figure 1 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for distributing digital musical scores for performance by multiple musicians according to an embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 2 A system for distributing digital sheet music for performance by multiple musicians, according to embodiments of this disclosure, is illustrated. (The remaining text appears to be unrelated and likely refers to further details about the system.) Figure 1 and Figure 2 Both describe embodiments of the content disclosed herein.

[0026] The method according to an embodiment of this disclosure includes, at step 100, receiving a music score request 214 from a music score source 200 via a communication path 212 between the user equipment 210 and the music score source 200. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the sheet music source 200 may include a processor 202, a latency compensator 204, and a database 206. For example, if a first user wants to request the violin part of the song "Amazing Grace," the sheet music source 200 can receive the relevant sheet music request 214 from the user device 210 and via communication path 212.

[0027] At step 102, the method includes obtaining a set of musical score components associated with the musical portion of a musical work and the score request 214 via score source 200. For example, if a first user requests the violin portion of the song Amazing Grace, the score request 214 may include "violin" as an identifier for the requested musical portion, and "Amazing Grace" as the musical work. In an example embodiment, the score request includes further details about the musical portion, such as "first violin" or "second violin," and may add skill levels such as "first violin, intermediate level" or "second violin, advanced level." In an example implementation, at step 102, a set of musical score components associated with the requested violin portion of Amazing Grace is obtained, wherein the set of musical score components may be notes, measures, or phrases of the score.

[0028] At step 104, the method includes obtaining a transmission delay value associated with communication path 212. In an example embodiment, the obtained transmission delay value is used to inform how content will be provided to the requesting user equipment; this can be used to help coordinate the provision of musical score components to multiple user equipment so that users can play together appropriately and maintain proper timing, for example, even without a conductor. In an example embodiment, delay compensator 204 obtains or coordinates the acquisition of the transmission delay value associated with the communication path.

[0029] In an example embodiment, obtaining a first transmission delay value may include one or more of the following: obtaining a stored transmission delay value associated with a first communication path; obtaining a transmission delay value based on a delay measurement result associated with the first communication path; obtaining a real-time transmission delay measurement result associated with the first communication path; or measuring the transmission delay on the first communication path.

[0030] At step 106, the method includes providing at least one musical score component from the set of musical score components to user equipment 210 from musical score source 200 and using processor 202 associated with musical score source 200. Step 106 is performed using a first allocation timing based on an obtained transmission delay value associated with communication path 212. In an example embodiment, delay compensator 204 applies or coordinates the application of the first allocation timing to provide the musical score component to the user equipment.

[0031] At step 108, the method includes: providing a set of corresponding musical score components of different musical parts of the musical work from a score source 200 and using a processor 202 to different user devices. For example, the different musical parts could be the saxophone section of the same musical work, *Amazing Grace*. In an example embodiment, such as... Figure 2As shown, the corresponding musical score components 226, 236, or 246 are provided to one or more devices 220, 230, or 240, respectively. Step 108 is performed based on the different transmission delays associated with the corresponding communication paths (such as 222, 232, or 242) between different user devices and the musical score source 200, for example, based on musical score requests 224, 234, or 234.

[0032] In relation to Figure 2 In an example embodiment, delay compensator 204 obtains or coordinates the acquisition of a transmission delay value associated with communication paths 222, 232, or 242. Regarding... Figure 2 In another example embodiment, the delay compensator 204 applies or coordinates the application to allocate timing accordingly to provide the corresponding musical score components to devices 220, 230, or 240.

[0033] For example, the violin portion is provided to device 210 based on a first transmission delay associated with communication path 212, and the saxophone portion is provided to device 220 based on a second transmission delay associated with communication path 222. In this manner, in the embodiment of step 108, providing corresponding musical score components of different groups of different musical parts of the musical work to associated different user devices is based on the corresponding transmission delays associated with the communication paths between the different user devices and the score source.

[0034] In an example embodiment, in step 108, providing the corresponding musical score components includes providing at least one musical score component from different musical parts, the at least one musical score component corresponding to the at least one musical score component in the group of musical score components provided to the requesting user device. For example, if measures 20-34 of the violin part of Amazing Grace are provided to device 210, then measures 20-34 of the saxophone part are provided to device 220.

[0035] In an example embodiment, the corresponding musical score components of the set are provided substantially simultaneously to different user devices, relative to providing at least one musical score component of the set to the requesting user device. For example, relative to providing measures 20-34 of the violin part of Amazing Grace to device 210, measures 20-34 of the saxophone part of Amazing Grace are provided substantially simultaneously to device 220.

[0036] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for distributing digital musical scores for performance by multiple musicians, according to another embodiment of this disclosure. As described above, Figure 1 An example is shown that includes a sheet music request from a user. Figure 1The embodiments include: providing at least one musical score component from a set of musical score components to a user equipment using a first allocation timing based on the obtained transmission delay value; and providing a set of corresponding musical score components to different user equipments based on different transmission delays. Figure 3 The method is similar to Figure 1 The method describes the use of a first allocation timing and a second allocation timing to provide the first set of musical score components and the second set of musical score components to the first user equipment and the second user equipment.

[0037] like Figure 3 As shown, the example embodiment includes: at step 300, at the score source, receiving a first score request from the first user equipment via a first communication path between the first user equipment and the score source; at step 302, obtaining a first set of score components of a first musical part of a musical work associated with the first score request via the score source; at step 304, obtaining a first transmission delay value associated with the first communication path; at step 306, using a first allocation timing based on the obtained first transmission delay value associated with the first communication path, providing at least one score component from the first set of score components to the first user equipment from the score source and using a processor; at step 308, using a second allocation timing, providing at least one score component from the corresponding second set of score components of a second musical part of the musical work from the score source and using a processor, wherein the first allocation timing and the second allocation timing enable the first user and the second user, respectively using the first user equipment and the second user equipment, to coordinate the performance of the musical work without a conductor.

[0038] In an example embodiment, at step 308, providing at least one musical score component from the second set of musical score components is performed in response to a second musical score request, based on a second transmission delay associated with a second communication path between the second user equipment and the musical score source.

[0039] As previously stated, the term "score component" refers to a digital or electronic component of a score, wherein the score comprises a set of score components. In an example embodiment, providing at least one score component from a first set of score components to a first user device includes streaming at least one score component from the first set of score components to the first user device. Providing at least one score component from the first set of score components via streaming enables the system and method to provide score components as needed and facilitates the coordination of performance timing for the score components. Controlling how and when score components are streamed makes it easier for embodiments of this disclosure to coordinate performance timing for the user.

[0040] In an example embodiment, the first set of musical score components includes a first set of continuous streaming portions. In this example embodiment, the method further includes determining a first user's current playing position within the first set of continuous streaming portions, for example, representing the current playing position within an entire set of musical score components of a musical work. In this example embodiment, streaming at least one musical score component from the first set of musical score components to a first user device includes providing streaming portions selected from the first set of continuous streaming portions, these selected streaming portions being located after the first user's current playing position determined in a first musical portion of the musical work.

[0041] Consider an example embodiment that occurs during initialization or when the first set of musical score components of a musical work is provided. In such an example embodiment, determining the first user's current playing position includes setting the first user's current playing position at the beginning of the first musical section of the musical work in response to receiving a first score request. In another example embodiment, determining the first user's current playing position includes periodically querying the first user device associated with the first user to confirm the currently displayed continuous streaming portion, or the continuous streaming portion to be displayed next.

[0042] In an embodiment, the first set of continuous streaming portions includes a portion of the musical definition of a first musical section of a musical work associated with a first score request. In a first example embodiment, the musical definition portion is selected from the group consisting of: overture; verse; pre-chorus section; chorus; interlude; solo; instrumental piece; and coda. In a second example embodiment, the musical definition portion is selected from the group consisting of: note; notation; measure; stanza; and movement. In a third example embodiment, the musical definition portion is selected from the group consisting of: overture; exposition; development; recapitulation; verse; chorus; refrain; coda; finale; fade-out; interlude; and episode.

[0043] Various other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art, providing the ability to divide a continuous streaming portion into musically defined portions of any type or granularity, based on currently accepted or known musical notation conventions or variations thereof, or based on visually defined portions or portions defined based on display characteristics. In embodiments, the first set of continuous streaming portions includes pages of a first musical portion of a musical work associated with a first score request. In a first example embodiment, these pages are defined based on the storage format of the first musical portion of the musical work in the score source. In a second example embodiment, these pages are defined based on the display format of the first musical portion of the musical work at a first device.

[0044] While streaming implementations are advantageous, there are situations where streaming capabilities may be unreliable, such as due to limitations in communication traffic, communication infrastructure, or excessive transmission delays associated with one or more communication paths.

[0045] Therefore, in embodiments, such as when streaming is unreliable, the method may include receiving and / or providing a transmission delay alarm condition. In an embodiment, the transmission delay alarm condition is met before a transmission delay has an irreversible negative impact on the ability to properly stream the set of musical score components. Thus, according to embodiments of this disclosure, action can be taken after the musical score components have been provided, before problems cause significant excessive delays or a lack of coordination between different users performing the same musical work.

[0046] In an example embodiment, in response to a transmission delay alarm condition, the method simultaneously provides the entire first musical portion of the musical work to the first user device in parallel with the streaming. Thus, if the transmission delay adversely affects the streaming, the first user device can download or otherwise provide the entire first musical portion of the musical work and use an offline version of the music until the streaming conditions become more favorable. Once the streaming conditions are more favorable, the transmission delay alarm condition can be cleared, and components of the score can continue to be provided using streaming, for example, to help the user coordinate performance timing.

[0047] In an example embodiment, the transmission delay alarm condition occurs based on the obtained first transmission delay value exceeding an acceptable first transmission delay threshold. In a first example implementation, this occurs when the obtained first transmission delay value exceeds the acceptable first transmission delay threshold by a certain threshold amount, and can be triggered at any time the obtained value exceeds the stored threshold. In a second example implementation, this occurs when the obtained first transmission delay value exceeds the acceptable transmission delay threshold for a certain threshold time period. For example, if the acceptable transmission delay threshold is 50, and the obtained value is 45, and the duration exceeds 5 microseconds, a transmission delay alarm condition occurs. In another example, if the acceptable transmission delay threshold is 50, and the obtained value is 40, and the duration exceeds 12 microseconds, a transmission delay alarm condition occurs. Different variations in the relationship between the amount by which the obtained transmission delay exceeds the threshold and the duration can be used independently or together for a set of transmission delay alarm conditions.

[0048] Regarding communication between the music score source and the user device, embodiments of this disclosure can provide different implementation methods. In one embodiment, communication can be performed using public or private communication networks or platforms, such as cellular data networks, or via the Internet or WiFi connections within an intranet. In some cases, such communication networks introduce uncertainties regarding transmission latency.

[0049] In another embodiment, direct point-to-point communication is used instead of a communication network. For example, in one embodiment, providing a musical score component to a first user equipment using a first allocated timing includes transmitting the musical score component using direct point-to-point communication between a first transceiver associated with the musical score source and a second transceiver associated with the first user equipment. In an example embodiment, the musical score component is transmitted using direct point-to-point communication between the first and second transceivers, such as direct 5G communication or direct Bluetooth communication, without relying on or without using a network.

[0050] For systems and methods, providing central coordination of the timing of the allocation of musical score components may be advantageous. For example, in one embodiment, a second musical portion of a musical work is provided to a second user device substantially simultaneously with the provision of a first musical portion to a first user device. In another embodiment, the method includes coordinating the timing of the display of musical portions such that the display of the first musical portion of the musical work on the first user device is substantially simultaneous with the display of the second musical portion of the musical work on the second user device.

[0051] In another embodiment, the method further includes coordinating the display timing of the streaming portions such that, based on the first user's current playing position, a streaming portion selected from a first set of consecutive streaming portions is provided to the first user device. This is performed at substantially the same time as the time at which a corresponding streaming portion of a second musical portion of a musical work is provided to the second user device based on a second user's playing position corresponding to the first user's current playing position.

[0052] As previously mentioned, different musical parts of the same musical work, played by different instruments / sounds and at different skill levels, can be stored in a score source within a score package. In an example embodiment, the system and method can provide a requested version based on skill level and instrument. In an example embodiment, the method may include confirming a score package associated with a first score request, wherein the score package includes multiple musical parts of a musical work; each musical part is created for a specific musical skill level and a specific instrument. In this implementation, obtaining a first set of score components for a first musical part of a musical work is based on the first score request and on the user's skill level and user instrument.

[0053] In an example embodiment, the user's skill level and the identifier of the user's instrument are determined based on a first user profile parameter associated with the first sheet music request. In another example embodiment, the first user profile parameter is obtained before receiving the first sheet music request, such as through a query from the sheet music source to the first user device, to obtain the first user profile parameter, such as a query for the instrument and skill level. In yet another example embodiment, the user's skill level and the identifier of the user's instrument are included in the first sheet music request. In a further example embodiment, the user's skill level and the identifier of the user's instrument are obtained based on a user identifier associated with the sheet music request, for example, based on a username or login credentials.

[0054] Therefore, for example, if Leila Mann logs in to the first device (tablet) using her username, when she sends a sheet music request from the tablet, the user profile parameters "instrument = violin" and "skill level = advanced" are included as part of that sheet music request. If Leila later logs in to the second device (smartphone) using the same username, the instrument and skill level associated with her username will be included as part of the second sheet music request, even if the request originates from the second device, and not necessarily based on information related to the device itself.

[0055] Figure 4 A block diagram of a system for distributing digital sheet music for performance by multiple musicians, according to a further embodiment of this disclosure, is shown, and the system includes additional royalty components and synthesizer components. Figure 4 As shown in the embodiment, central database 1 stores the original electronic versions of all musical works, which may be stored in formats such as Sibelius™ or Finale™. Database 1 also stores all variations or musical portions of such works, as well as data such as any royalties payable, prices of various versions of downloaded works, and details of all those who modified the original. All statistical performance data is also stored here. Multiple royalty files 2 contain details of all royalties paid for all downloads.

[0056] Figure 4 In this embodiment, expert system 3 is configured to allow anyone with appropriate permissions / security clearances to modify the content of any work, original version, or altered version. In this embodiment, expert system 3 includes rules, help text, and productivity aids to make it easier for any such "synthesizer" to create versions of any musical work suited to their individual needs.

[0057] Synthesizer file 4 may be stored in computer-readable storage and contains detailed information on all individuals who use the expert system to create and modify musical works for the central database. Synthesizer file 5 contains a provisional version of the modified music, awaiting approval and / or authorization for placement in the central database. This provisional stage for modified versions of music or newly composed musical works allows for a provisional review process to ensure that the music in the central database has a high-quality version. As used herein, the term "synthesizer" refers to a "repository of synthesizers."

[0058] Server 6 can be any computer designated as a lead computer for rehearsals or performances, whether only one computer is involved or many computers are involved. This is the computer that downloads the desired version from a central database and controls the timing and allocation of each part to be played on locally connected terminals. Terminals (multiples) 7 are any user devices such as computers / smartphones; in the example embodiment, the terminals are connected to server 6 within line of sight and are configured to operate in slave mode to server 6, which acts as the master or lead computer for the current group.

[0059] Figure 5 An example of a display of a user device in a system for distributing digital sheet music, according to an embodiment of this disclosure, is shown. Figure 5 The example embodiment illustrates how any terminal (computer or smartphone) can present information to a user (performer or singer). A microphone / speaker 8 may be provided for communication, tuning, and feedback. In addition to the score component 10, a motion image of the conductor in silhouette 9 may also be provided, where the conductor image and the score are synchronized. In the example embodiment, the motion image of each musical note with any associated symbols or markings is synchronized with the beat emitted by the server. In the example embodiment, this is achieved by a moving pointer in any suitable visual form (solid lines, bold notes, etc.). The display may further include one or more multi-purpose action buttons A through E 11, which may be assigned functions such as tuning my instrument, changing my profile skill set level, etc.

[0060] Figure 6 An example of a virtual conductor's display is shown in a system and distribution method for distributing digital musical scores for performance by multiple musicians, according to embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 6 The example embodiments illustrate how other technologies and solutions can be integrated with embodiments of this disclosure. In example embodiments, system integration of this disclosure includes capabilities such as the projected 3D holograms disclosed regarding the Abba world tour. It is conceivable that, at each concert, holograms of the Abba band would be projected onto the stage, rather than the band members themselves actually experiencing and participating live at each venue.

[0061] The application of this holographic technology associated with embodiments of this disclosure allows living, and possibly even deceased, orchestra / band conductors to be seen conducting, even though they are not actually present. This could potentially display holograms of renowned deceased conductors, provided there is sufficient film reel of their past performances that can be converted into holograms. The principal orchestra retains loose-leaf scores performed by renowned conductors, appropriately annotated according to their specific requirements—these loose-leaf scores could be included in the embodiments using this disclosure, as well as in performances linked to holographic visualizations of the conductors, to reproduce versions of works consistent with the style and wishes of the original deceased conductor.

[0062] Figure 7 Examples of public displays provided in association with systems and methods for distributing digital musical scores, according to embodiments of this disclosure, are shown. Similar to... Figure 6 , Figure 7 The example embodiments illustrate how another technology / solution can be integrated with the embodiments of this disclosure. Since the embodiments described so far are configured to display musical score components and other content on a user device, other embodiments extend this functionality to projecting the same content onto a large screen, such as in a movie theater, football stadium, external broadcast, or even a commercial sales presentation. The advantage of using a control computer according to embodiments of this disclosure to project one or more images onto such a screen is that the audience on stage can then follow the music. Such projected images can be programmed to be cut between several separate portions of images, which may be altered to show the main theme being played, followed by individual or group / partial video images of the performers.

[0063] In a further exemplary embodiment, embodiments of this disclosure are configured to control lighting in the performer's / singer's area. The system of embodiments of this disclosure interfaces with lighting systems available in concert halls, allowing the system to direct any beams of light onto the soloist or a section of the band / orchestra when they occupy a prominent position in the music. This enables the audience to follow the prominent parts of the music through beams of light / "spots"—and these beams / spots can dim and brighten according to the volume of the music. Therefore, using embodiments of this disclosure, the overall experience of those attending such a performance can be improved and informed according to their preferences.

[0064] In another example implementation, parents who have been through years of their children’s violin practice can also bring their smartphones and “listen” to the parts their loved ones are playing.

[0065] Figure 8A block diagram of a timing subsystem according to a further embodiment of this disclosure is shown. The ability of embodiments of this disclosure to transmit synchronization across all devices relies on tight programming of communication between the host computer / terminal and any number of “star-connected” slave computers / terminals, as well as the projected large screen or hologram, as described above. Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown. In the example embodiment, Figure 8 The timing subsystem components shown drive the timing of the entire performance. In the example embodiment, the timing subsystem components include a comprehensive database of detailed information on the current and past precise communication delays between the master and slave terminals. This data can be used to set and maintain accurate musical timing for the music being played.

[0066] In the example embodiment, synchronizer 14 uses 5G communication speeds to control and predict the timing of the master and slave terminals. In the example embodiment, the subsystem also maintains backup facilities required to present a “full page” of static content on the slave terminal in the event of system overload or any other emergency situation where the presentation of notes or other musical components to any of the terminals(s) ceases. This has already been described in the preceding description.

[0067] Embodiments relating to a method and system for distributing digital sheet music performed by multiple musicians have been described. In an example embodiment, the method includes: receiving a sheet music request from a user device; obtaining, via a sheet music source, a set of sheet music components of a musical work associated with the sheet music request; obtaining a transmission delay value associated with a communication path; providing at least one of the sheet music components from the sheet music source and using a processor to the user device based on the obtained transmission delay value using a first distribution timing; and providing a set of corresponding sheet music components of different musical parts of the musical work to different user devices based on different transmission delay values ​​associated with different user devices, such as enabling users to coordinate playback without a conductor.

[0068] In the foregoing description, numerous details have been set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments for the purpose of explanation. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that these specific details are not essential. In other instances, well-known electrical structures and circuits have been illustrated in block diagram form to avoid obscuring the meaning. For example, no specific details are provided regarding whether the embodiments described herein are implemented as software routines, hardware circuits, firmware, or a combination thereof.

[0069] The embodiments of this disclosure can be represented as a computer program product stored in a machine-readable medium (also referred to as a computer-readable medium, processor-readable medium, or computer-usable medium having computer-readable program code embodied therein). A machine-readable medium can be any suitable tangible, non-transitory medium, including magnetic, optical, or electrical storage media (including magnetic disks, optical disc read-only memories (CD-ROMs), memory devices (volatile or non-volatile), or similar storage mechanisms)). A machine-readable medium can contain various sets of instructions, sequences of code, configuration information, or other data that, when executed, cause a processor to perform the steps in the methods according to the embodiments of this disclosure. Those skilled in the art will understand that other instructions and operations necessary to implement the described embodiments can also be stored on a machine-readable medium. Instructions stored on a machine-readable medium can be executed by a processor or other suitable processing device and can be interfaced with a circuit system to perform the described tasks.

[0070] The above embodiments are intended to be illustrative only. Changes, modifications, and variations of the specific embodiments can be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope defined solely by the appended claims.

[0071] Embodiments of this disclosure may be described with reference to the following numbered clauses, the specific features of which are listed in the dependent clauses:

[0072] I. A method for distributing digital musical scores for performance by multiple musicians, the method comprising:

[0073] a. At the music score source, receive the music score request from the user equipment through the communication path between the user equipment and the music score source;

[0074] b. Obtain, through the musical source, a set of musical components of the musical work that are associated with the musical score request;

[0075] c. Obtain the transmission delay value associated with this communication path;

[0076] d. Based on the obtained transmission delay value associated with the communication path, using a first allocation timing, provide at least one musical component from the musical score source and using a processor associated with the musical score source to the user equipment; and

[0077] e. Based on different transmission delay values ​​associated with the communication paths between different user devices and the music score source, a set of corresponding musical score components of different musical parts of the musical work are provided from the music score source and to the different user devices using the processor.

[0078] II. The method of claim 1, wherein providing the corresponding musical score components comprises providing at least one musical score component from different musical parts, the at least one musical score component corresponding to the at least one musical score component in the group of musical score components provided to the requesting user device.

[0079] III. The method of claim 1 or claim 2, further comprising:

[0080] a. Based on the corresponding transmission delay associated with the communication path between the different user devices and the music score source, provide different sets of musical score components corresponding to different musical parts of the musical work from the music score source and to these different user devices using the processor.

[0081] IV. The method of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, relative to providing the requesting user device with at least one musical component of the set of musical components, the corresponding musical components of the set are provided substantially simultaneously to the different user devices.

[0082] V. A method for distributing digital musical scores for performance by multiple musicians, the method comprising:

[0083] a. At the music score source, a first music score request is received from the first user equipment via a first communication path between the first user equipment and the music score source;

[0084] b. Obtaining, via the musical score source, the first set of musical score components of the first musical part of the musical work associated with the first musical score request;

[0085] c. Obtain the first transmission delay value associated with the first communication path;

[0086] d. Based on the obtained first transmission delay value associated with the first communication path, using a first allocation timing, provide at least one musical component from the first set of musical component parts to the first user equipment from the musical score source and using the processor; and

[0087] e. Using a second allocation timing, at least one musical component from a corresponding second set of musical components of a second musical part of the musical work is provided from the musical score source and to a second user device using the processor, the first allocation timing and the second allocation timing enabling a first user and a second user, respectively using the first user device and the second user device, to coordinate the performance of the musical work without a conductor.

[0088] VI. The method of claim 5, wherein providing the at least one musical score component corresponding to the second set of musical score components is performed in response to a second musical score request, based on a second transmission delay associated with a second communication path between the second user equipment and the musical score source.

[0089] VII. The method of claim 5 or claim VI, wherein obtaining the first transmission delay value includes obtaining a stored transmission delay value associated with the first communication path.

[0090] VIII. The method of claim 5 or claim VI, wherein obtaining the first transmission delay value comprises obtaining the transmission delay value based on a delay measurement result associated with the first communication path.

[0091] IX. The method of claim 5 or claim VI, wherein obtaining the first transmission delay value includes obtaining a real-time transmission delay measurement associated with the first communication path.

[0092] X. The method of claim 5 or claim VI, wherein obtaining the first transmission delay value includes measuring the transmission delay on the first communication path.

[0093] XI. The method of any one of claims 5 to X, wherein providing the first user equipment with the at least one musical score component from the first set of musical score components comprises streaming the at least one musical score component from the first set of musical score components to the first user equipment.

[0094] XII. The method of claim 11, wherein the first set of musical score components includes a first set of continuous streaming portions, and the method further includes:

[0095] a. Determine the current playing position of the first user within the first group of continuous streaming sections; and

[0096] b. Wherein, streaming at least one musical component of the first set of musical components to the first user device includes providing streaming portions selected from the first set of continuous streaming portions, the selected streaming portions being located after the first user's current playing position determined in the first musical portion of the musical work.

[0097] XIII. The method of claim 12, wherein determining the current playing position of the first user includes, in response to receiving the first score request, setting the current playing position of the first user at the beginning of the first musical section of the musical work.

[0098] XIV. The method of claim 12, wherein determining the current playing position of the first user includes periodically querying the first user device associated with the first user to confirm the currently displayed continuous streaming portion.

[0099] XV. The method of claim 12, wherein the first set of continuous streaming portions includes a portion of the musical definition of the first musical portion of the musical work associated with the first score request.

[0100] XVI. The method of claim 15, wherein the musical definitions are selected from the group consisting of: overture; verse; pre-chorus; chorus; interlude; solo; instrumental piece; and coda.

[0101] XVII. The method of claim 15, wherein the musical definition portions are selected from the group consisting of: notes; markings; measures; sections; and movements.

[0102] XVIII. The method of claim 15, wherein the musical definition portions are selected from the group consisting of: overture; exposition; development; recapitulation; verse; chorus; refrain; coda; finale; fade-out; interlude; and episode.

[0103] XIX. The method of any one of claims 12 to XVIII, wherein the first set of continuous streaming portions includes pages of the first musical portion of the musical work associated with the first score request.

[0104] XX. The method of claim 19, wherein the pages are defined based on the storage format of the first musical portion of the musical work in the score source.

[0105] XXI. The method of claim 19, wherein the pages are defined based on the display format of the first musical portion of the musical work on the first device.

[0106] XXII. The method of any one of claims 12 to XXI, further comprising:

[0107] a. In response to a transmission delay alarm condition, simultaneously provide the entire first musical portion of the musical work to the first user equipment in parallel with the streaming transmission.

[0108] XXIII. The method of claim 22, wherein the transmission delay alarm condition occurs based on the obtained first transmission delay value exceeding an acceptable first transmission delay threshold.

[0109] XXIV. The method of claim 23, wherein the obtained first transmission delay value exceeds the acceptable first transmission delay threshold by a certain threshold amount.

[0110] XXV. The method of claim 23, wherein the obtained first transmission delay value exceeds the acceptable transmission delay threshold for a certain threshold time period.

[0111] XXVI. The method of any one of claims 5 to X, wherein providing the at least one musical score component from the first set of musical score components to the first user equipment using the first allocation timing comprises:

[0112] At least one musical component of the first set of musical components is transmitted using direct point-to-point communication between a first transceiver associated with the musical score source and a second transceiver associated with the first user equipment.

[0113] XXVII. The method of claim 26, wherein the at least one musical component of the first set of musical components is transmitted using direct point-to-point communication between the first transceiver and the second transceiver, without relying on the use of a network.

[0114] XXVIII. The method of claim 26, wherein, without using a network, the transmission of at least one musical component of the first set of musical components is achieved through direct point-to-point communication between the first transceiver and the second transceiver.

[0115] XXIX. The method of any one of claims XXVII to 28, wherein direct 5G communication is used to transmit at least one musical component of the first set of musical components.

[0116] XXX. The method of any one of claims XXVII to 28, wherein direct Bluetooth communication is used to transmit at least one musical component of the first set of musical components.

[0117] XXXI. The method according to any one of claims 5 to XXX, further comprising:

[0118] a. While providing the first musical portion of the musical work to the first user equipment, the second musical portion of the musical work is provided to the second user equipment substantially simultaneously.

[0119] XXXII. The method according to any one of claims 5 to XXXI, further comprising:

[0120] a. Coordinate the timing of the display of the musical portions such that, substantially simultaneously with the display of the first musical portion of the musical work on the first user device, the second musical portion of the musical work is displayed on the second user device.

[0121] XXXIII. The method according to any one of claims 12 to XXXII, further comprising:

[0122] a. Coordinate the display timing of the streaming portions such that, substantially simultaneously with providing the first user device with a streaming portion selected from the first set of consecutive streaming portions based on the first user's current playing position, a corresponding streaming portion of the second musical portion of the musical work is provided to the second user device based on the second user's playing position corresponding to the first user's current playing position.

[0123] XXXIV. The method as described in any one of claims 5 to XXXIII, further comprising:

[0124] a. Identify the score package associated with the first score request, which includes multiple musical sections of the musical work, each section created for a specific musical skill level and a specific instrument; and

[0125] b. Wherein, the first set of musical scores for obtaining the first musical part of the musical work is based on the first musical score request and on the user's skill level and the user's instrument.

[0126] XXXV. The method of claim 34, wherein the user's skill level and the identifier of the user's instrument are determined based on a first user profile parameter associated with the first sheet music request.

[0127] XXXVI. The method of claim 35, wherein the first user profile parameter is obtained before receiving the first score request.

[0128] XXXVII. The method of claim 35, wherein the first user profile parameter is included in the first score request.

[0129] XXXVIII. The method of claim 34, wherein the user skill level and the identifier of the user's instrument are obtained based on a user identifier associated with the sheet music request.

[0130] XXXIX. The method of any one of claims XXXV to XXXVII, wherein the user skill level and the identifier of the user instrument are obtained based on a user identifier associated with the sheet music request.

[0131] XL. The method of claim 38 or claim XXXIX, wherein the user identifier includes a username or login credentials, enabling the first user and the second user to coordinate the playback of the musical work without a conductor.

[0132] XLI. An apparatus comprising:

[0133] i. one or more processors; and

[0134] ii. A memory storing computer-readable instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the apparatus to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 4.

[0135] XLII. A system comprising:

[0136] i. A computing device configured to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to XL; and

[0137] ii. The source of this musical score,

[0138] iii. The computing device includes the processor associated with the musical score source.

[0139] XLIII. A computer-readable medium storing instructions that, when executed, cause the method as claimed in any one of claims 1 to XL to be performed.

Claims

1. A method for distributing digital musical scores for performance by multiple musicians, the method comprising: At the music score source, the music score request is received from the user equipment through the communication path between the user equipment and the music score source; From the musical score source, obtain a set of musical score components of the musical work that are associated with the musical score request; The transmission delay value associated with the communication path is obtained through the delay compensator of the music score source; Based on the obtained transmission delay value associated with the communication path, using a first allocation timing, at least one musical component from the set of musical components is provided to the user equipment from the musical score source and using a processor associated with the musical score source; and Based on different transmission delay values ​​associated with communication paths between different user devices and the music score source, a set of corresponding musical score components of different musical parts of the musical work are provided from the music score source and to the different user devices using the processor, wherein the delay compensator applies or coordinates the application of corresponding allocation timing to provide the corresponding musical score components to the different user devices, the corresponding allocation timing enabling different users using the different user devices to coordinate the performance of the musical work without a conductor; wherein providing at least one musical score component from the set of musical score components to the user device includes: using a first allocation timing based on the obtained transmission delay value associated with the communication path, streaming the at least one musical score component from the set of musical score components to the user device from the music score source and using the processor associated with the music score source, the transmission delay value being used to inform how and when the musical score component is streamed to the user device; The musical score comprises a first set of continuous streaming portions, and the streaming of at least one musical score portion from the musical score to the user device includes: providing streaming portions selected from the first set of continuous streaming portions, which are located after the first user's current playing position determined in the first musical portion of the musical work.

2. The method as described in claim 1, wherein, Providing the corresponding musical score components includes providing at least one musical score component from different musical parts, the at least one musical score component corresponding to the at least one musical score component in the group of musical score components provided to the requesting user device.

3. The method of claim 1, further comprising: Based on the corresponding transmission delay associated with the communication path between the different user devices and the music score source, different sets of musical score components corresponding to different musical parts of the musical work are provided from the music score source and to these different user devices using the processor.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, In contrast to providing at least one musical score component from the set of musical score components to the requesting user device, the corresponding musical score components of the set are provided substantially simultaneously to the different user devices.

5. A method for distributing digital musical scores for performance by multiple musicians, the method comprising: At the music score source, a first music score request is received from the first user equipment through a first communication path between the first user equipment and the music score source; The first set of musical components of the musical work associated with the first musical part of the first musical score request is obtained through the musical score source; A first transmission delay value associated with the first communication path is obtained through the delay compensator of the music score source; Based on the first transmission delay value associated with the first communication path, and using a first allocation timing, at least one musical component of the first set of musical components is provided to the first user equipment from the musical score source and using a processor associated with the musical score source; as well as Using a second allocation timing, at least one musical component from a corresponding second set of musical components of the second musical part of the musical work is provided from the musical score source and to the second user device using the processor, wherein the delay compensator applies or coordinates the application of the first allocation timing and the second allocation timing to provide the corresponding musical components to the first user device and the second user device, the first allocation timing and the second allocation timing enabling the first user and the second user, respectively using the first user device and the second user device, to coordinate the performance of the musical work without a conductor; The provision of at least one musical score component from the first set of musical score components to the first user equipment includes: using a first allocation timing based on a first transmission delay value associated with the first communication path, streaming at least one musical score component from the first set of musical score components to the first user equipment from the musical score source and using the processor associated with the musical score source, wherein the first transmission delay value is used to notify how and when the musical score component is streamed to the first user equipment; The musical score comprises a first set of continuous streaming portions, and the streaming of at least one musical score portion from the musical score to the user device includes: providing streaming portions selected from the first set of continuous streaming portions, which are located after the first user's current playing position determined in the first musical portion of the musical work.

6. The method of claim 5, wherein, Providing at least one musical score component corresponding to the second set of musical score components is performed in response to a second musical score request, based on a second transmission delay associated with a second communication path between the second user equipment and the musical score source.

7. The method of claim 5, wherein, Obtaining the first transmission delay value includes obtaining the stored transmission delay value associated with the first communication path.

8. The method of claim 5, wherein, Obtaining the first transmission delay value includes obtaining the transmission delay value based on delay measurement results associated with the first communication path.

9. The method of claim 5, wherein, Obtaining the first transmission delay value includes obtaining a real-time transmission delay measurement result associated with the first communication path.

10. The method of claim 5, wherein, Obtaining the first transmission delay value includes measuring the transmission delay on the first communication path.

11. The method of claim 5, wherein, Determining the current playing position of the first user includes, in response to receiving the first score request, setting the current playing position of the first user at the beginning of the first musical section of the musical work.

12. The method of claim 5, wherein, Determining the current playing position of the first user includes periodically querying the first user's device associated with the first user to confirm the currently displayed continuous streaming portion.

13. The method of claim 5, wherein, The first set of continuous streaming portions includes the musical definition portion of the first musical part of the musical work associated with the first score request.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein, These musical definitions are selected from the following groups: overture; verse; pre-chorus; chorus; interlude; solo; instrumental piece; and coda.

15. The method of claim 13, wherein, These musical definitions are selected from the following groups: notes; markings; measures; sections; and movements.

16. The method of claim 13, wherein, These musical definitions are selected from the following groups: overture; exposition; development; recapitulation; verse; chorus; refrain; coda; finale; fade-out; interlude; and episode.

17. The method of claim 11, wherein, The first set of continuous streaming portions includes pages of the first musical portion of the musical work associated with the first score request.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein, These pages are defined based on the storage format of the first musical part of the musical work in the score source.

19. The method of claim 17, wherein, These pages are defined based on the display format of the first musical part of the musical work on the first user device.

20. The method of any one of claims 11 to 19, further comprising: In response to a transmission delay alarm condition, the entire first musical portion of the musical work is simultaneously provided to the first user equipment in parallel with the streaming transmission.

21. The method of claim 20, wherein, The transmission delay alarm condition occurs when the obtained first transmission delay value exceeds the acceptable first transmission delay threshold.

22. The method of claim 21, wherein, The obtained first transmission delay value exceeds the acceptable first transmission delay threshold by a certain threshold amount.

23. The method of claim 21, wherein, The first transmission delay value obtained exceeds the acceptable transmission delay threshold for a certain threshold period of time.

24. The method of claim 5, wherein, Providing the first user equipment with at least one musical score component from the first set of musical score components using the first allocation timing includes: At least one musical component of the first set of musical components is transmitted using direct point-to-point communication between a first transceiver associated with the musical score source and a second transceiver associated with the first user equipment.

25. The method of claim 24, wherein, Instead of relying on the use of a network, the first transceiver and the second transceiver use direct point-to-point communication to transmit at least one musical component of the first set of musical components.

26. The method of claim 24, wherein, Instead of using a network, the first transceiver and the second transceiver use direct point-to-point communication to transmit at least one musical component of the first set of musical components.

27. The method of any one of claims 25 to 26, wherein, Direct 5G communication is used to transmit at least one musical component of the first set of musical components.

28. The method of any one of claims 25 to 26, wherein, Direct Bluetooth communication is used to transmit at least one musical component of the first set of musical components.

29. The method of any one of claims 5 to 19, further comprising: While providing the first musical portion of the musical work to the first user device, the second musical portion of the musical work is provided to the second user device.

30. The method of any one of claims 5 to 19, further comprising: The timing of the display of the music section is coordinated such that the first music section of the musical work is displayed substantially simultaneously on the first user device, and the second music section of the musical work is displayed on the second user device.

31. The method of any one of claims 13 to 19, further comprising: The display timing of the coordinated streaming portion is such that, substantially simultaneously, a streaming portion selected from the first set of consecutive streaming portions is provided to the first user device based on the first user's current playing position, and a corresponding streaming portion of the second musical portion of the musical work is provided to the second user device based on the second user's playing position corresponding to the first user's current playing position.

32. The method of any one of claims 5 to 19, further comprising: Identify the sheet music package associated with the first sheet music request, which includes multiple musical parts of the musical work, each of which is created for a specific musical skill level and a specific instrument; and The first set of musical scores for obtaining the first musical part of the musical work is based on the first musical score request and on the user's skill level and the user's instrument.

33. The method of claim 32, wherein, The user's skill level and the identifier of the user's instrument are determined based on the first user profile parameters associated with the first sheet music request.

34. The method of claim 33, wherein, Obtain the first user profile parameters before receiving the first sheet music request.

35. The method of claim 33, wherein, The first user profile parameters are included in the first sheet music request.

36. The method of claim 32, wherein, The user's skill level and the identifier of the user's instrument are obtained based on the user identifier associated with the sheet music request.

37. The method according to any one of claims 33 to 35, wherein, The user's skill level and the identifier of the user's instrument are obtained based on the user identifier associated with the sheet music request.

38. The method of claim 36, wherein, The user identifier includes a username or login credentials, enabling the first user and the second user to coordinate the playback of the musical work without a conductor.

39. An apparatus comprising: One or more processors; as well as A memory storing computer-readable instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the device to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 38.

40. A system comprising: A computing device configured to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 38; as well as The source of the musical score, The computing device includes the processor associated with the musical score source.

41. A computer-readable medium storing instructions that, when executed, cause the method as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 38 to be performed.

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