Selling Sheet Music 62. Musicnotes’ Michael Sinshack and Joe Harris on the Human Touch Behind Digital Sheet Music
Aug 5, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Michael Sinshack, a seasoned publications administrator at Musicnotes, and Joe Harris, an expert sheet music specialist, delve into the art and science of digital sheet music. They share insights on the rigorous quality control processes that ensure each score is flawless, including their unique two-editor rule. The duo also explores the evolution of notation software and emphasizes the importance of composers mastering notation to enhance their craft. Their passion for music and dedication to quality shine through, making for a captivating listen.
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First Sale And Long Tenure
- Michael Sinshack was the very first purchase on Musicnotes when the site first tested live, making him the company's first sale.
- He started engraving and typesetting in 1998 and has worked through many old systems to today's workflows.
Proprietary Format Built Trust
- Early Musicnotes delivered files in a proprietary MTD format and matched printed books verbatim to satisfy publishers.
- That process built industry trust and trained the team in rigorous quality control.
Always Human-Proof Transpositions
- Have at least two editors review every piece and inspect each transposition manually.
- Avoid trusting automated transposition without editorial verification.