Of all the things I never thought I’d gush about…
…”database programs” were definitely at the top of the list. But you never know when love will hit you. And it definitely hit me yesterday.
My beloved’s name? Bento. And if you’re a singer, you’re going to love it too.
Let me back up. I’ve always kept a database of my music, so I could know what I have. Whenever the pile of Xeroxes on my desk got too high, I’d catalog each selection and file it in a neatly labeled folder, which I’d file alphabetically in one of my three (yes, I said three) file cabinets filled with music.
Over the past few years, as my life has become more mobile, I’ve started scanning the new music I bring in, so much of it is stored on my computer in yet another file. My partner, who doesn’t think we should live in a house full of filing cabinets, has been lobbying for me to go 100% digital. But I’ve been resistant.
A few weeks ago, when I upgraded my Mac to the latest operating system, the ancient (15-year-old) database program I’ve been using refused to make the transition. I printed out a hard copy of the database and proceeded to look for a new program.
Why is Bento “The One”? Because in addition to storing the information about my music, it will also store my music. I can digitally paper-clip any document to any record in my database - a pdf of the original source material, a Finale file of my arrangement, anything I’ve got in one of the cardboard file folders. And now it’s all in one place.
If I figure out how to do a screen-capture of a Bento file, I’ll add one. But I wanted you to know about this ASAP because it’s the solution of my dreams…and maybe yours, too.
