If you have Sibelius
- Open the score in Sibelius.
- Go to File › Export › MusicXML.
- Choose uncompressed (.musicxml) if you'll open it in another program or in TuttiKit; compressed (.mxl) works too.
- Click Export.
Sibelius 6 and earlier don't have this option: you need the Dolet plug-in, or open the file in a newer version.
If you don't have Sibelius
- Ask for the MusicXML from whoever sent you the file: it takes them a minute with the steps above.
- If you only have the PDF, convert it with PDF to MusicXML: TuttiKit reads the printed score and gives you MusicXML. Check the result, as automatic recognition can miss a detail.
What about Finale?
Finale is different: its .musx and .mus files can be read without Finale. Use Finale to MusicXML.
What to do with the MusicXML
Open it in MuseScore, Dorico or Finale, or use it here to transpose the score, extract the parts or transpose it for your instrument.
Frequently asked questions
Can I convert a .sib to MusicXML online without Sibelius?
Not reliably: the .sib format is closed and no converter reads it. Be wary of sites that claim to. Ask whoever sent you the file for the MusicXML or the PDF.
Does MuseScore open Sibelius files?
Not .sib files directly. It opens the MusicXML you export from Sibelius.
Is anything lost when exporting to MusicXML?
Notes, rhythms, lyrics, chords and markings come across well. Layout is redone by the program that opens it, and very Sibelius-specific elements may not carry over.