MakeMusic (http://www.makemusic.com) has released SmartMusic 2011, the latest update of the interactive music software that provides educators and students with access to thousands of band, orchestra, concert solos and vocal pieces, allowing students to practice with background accompaniment and get immediate feedback on their performances.

SmartMusic also allows teachers to individualize instruction, document progress for every student, and create an ideal practice environment. MakeMusic CEO Ron Raup says SmartMusic 2011's new features include:

° Streamlined screens, controls and personalized home pages that provide quicker, easier access to music, tools and key information;

° Enhanced educator screens and controls that make it faster and easier to send customized instructions, create assignments and document and track student progress;

° The ability to send assignments directly from the performance screen;

° Now the recording feature automatically begins with each accompaniment to capture every performance.

Educators and students can flip through cover art for thousands of solo, method book, jazz improvisation, concert band, jazz ensemble and string orchestra titles and then drag and drop chosen titles to create customized playlists. New method books and solos are available along with SmartMusic 2011, and additional music will be released by September.

SmartMusic 2011 is a free update for all current subscribers. For new users the cost is US$36 per year for students and $140 per year for educators.