Your Writing Environment

Items that you will need to have before you can start using this Template:

  1. Sibelius 6, 7, or higher (includes Ultimate, etc)
  2. Virtual Drumline 2.5, library version 2.5.5

Install Sibelius

Whether you are upgrading or buying new, you can find the Sibelius software main web page by following this link: https://www.avid.com/sibelius

Once you have Sibelius installed, be sure to update to the latest version. https://my.avid.com/account

If using Sibelius 6, you’ll need to be sure you’re using the latest update for that version (use the Avid account link above to download it):

  • Sibelius 6, version 6.2

Install Virtual Drumline

Install the VDL library from the installer (from disc or download), then go here to make sure you’re using the latest update: www.tapspace.com

The latest VDL library update is 2.5.5. VDL 2.5.5 is REQUIRED in order to make use of all the instruments defined in this template.

Install Template Sound Set

Find the file labeled VDL_SoundSet_7.0a.xml and copy it into one of the following folders * (this file is included within the VDL Template zip package you downloaded):

Windows 7 / 10 / 11:
Sib 6: C:\Users\your username\AppData\Roaming\Sibelius Software\Sibelius 6\Sounds
Sib 7: C:\Users\your username\AppData\Roaming\Avid\Sibelius 7\Sounds

macOS:
Sib 6: /Users/your username/Library/Application Support/Sibelius Software/Sibelius 6/Sounds
Sib 7: /Users/your username/Library/Application Support/Avid/Sibelius 7/Sounds
Sib 8+: /Users/your username/Library/Application Support/Avid/Sibelius/Sounds

* If it’s not already there, you’ll need to create the Sounds folder yourself.

Why do I need this particular sound set?

  1. A sound set is an XML file that has all of the relevant information allowing Sibelius to communicate with whatever library/device the sound set is written for. In this case, the VDL SoundSet 7.0a sound set will allow Sibelius to correctly sort out all the instruments, techniques, articulations, controllers, and keyswitches for every instrument in the Template.
  2. This sound set has been customized to distinguish itself from any other sound set that a user may have in use in a particular Playback Configuration. We want specific patches to be loaded – especially if other sample libraries are in simultaneous use.

NOTE: Make sure that you install and use the sound set that you downloaded with the Template so all the instruments that we’ve defined will function properly.

Now that you have installed Sibelius, Virtual Drumline and the included sound set, let’s set up your Playback Configuration.