StaffPad is a groundbreaking music writing tool for Windows 8.1 pen and touch devices

Microsoft has often showcased the versatility of the Surface through creative industries, perhaps most famously with Adobe Creative Cloud.

A few days ago, StaffPad introduced their revolutionary music notation app, available exclusively from the Windows Store.

Utilizing the Surface Pro pen, you can write notes directly onto a virtualized traditional manuscript. The app then interprets your handwriting and transforms it into professional musical notation. The sophisticated app supports musical playback as well as MIDI, MP3, WAV and MusicXML export for previewing. StaffPad also features OneDrive integration, keeping your musical scores in sync regardless of where and when you may be rockin' out.

There are, however, some limitations. Right now, it only works on devices with both pen and touch support, and it carries a hefty price tag of £50 ($69.99 USD). It's clearly very targeted at professional composers, music faculty and students, but even the dedicated amateur might find it worth the price.

For a detailed review, head on over here to the Sibelius Blog.

Download StaffPad for Windows 8.1

Are you a Surface Pro wielding musician? What do you make of StaffPad? Hit the comments.

Jez Corden
Co-Managing Editor

Jez Corden is a Managing Editor at Windows Central, focusing primarily on all things Xbox and gaming. Jez is known for breaking exclusive news and analysis as relates to the Microsoft ecosystem while being powered by tea. Follow on Twitter @JezCorden and listen to his XB2 Podcast, all about, you guessed it, Xbox!