Adding an Arranger Name in Guitar Pro

To add an arranger name to a Guitar Pro score, open the File menu and select Song Properties (or Document Properties depending on your Guitar Pro version). In the window that opens, you will see a field labeled Arranger. Type the arranger's name directly into this field, then click OK to save the change. The arranger name will now appear on the score whenever it is printed or exported.

This metadata travels with your file. When someone else opens the score later, they will see the arranger credit in the same properties window and on printed pages. The arranger field is separate from composer, artist, and other credits, so you can list multiple people involved in creating the arrangement.

Key Takeaways

  • Open File menu, then select Song Properties or Document Properties to find the arranger field.
  • Type the arranger name directly into the Arranger field and click OK to save it.
  • The arranger name will appear on printed scores and in the file's metadata when shared with others.
  • You can add an arranger name even if the score already has a composer or artist listed.
  • Different Guitar Pro versions may label this window slightly differently, but the process is the same.

Where the Arranger Name Appears on Your Score

Once you add an arranger name, it typically shows up in the header or footer area of printed pages, depending on how your score template is set up. Most default templates place the arranger name near the bottom of the first page, often aligned to the right side. If you export the score as a PDF, the arranger name will be included in that export as well.

The exact placement depends on your score's layout settings. If you want to control where the arranger name appears or hide it entirely from the printed output, you can adjust this through the Page Setup or Layout menu. However, the name will always remain in the file's metadata even if you hide it from the visual layout.

Editing or Removing an Arranger Name

If you need to change the arranger name later, follow the same steps: go to File menu, open Song Properties, and click in the Arranger field. You can clear the existing text and type a new name, or delete it entirely if you no longer want an arranger credit listed.

This is useful if you are working on a score that was arranged by someone else and you want to update the credit, or if you made a typo the first time. Save the file after making changes so the update is preserved.

Difference Between Arranger, Composer, and Artist Fields

Guitar Pro lets you credit multiple people in different roles. The Composer field is for the person who wrote the original music. The Arranger field is for the person who adapted or rearranged that music for guitar. The Artist field is typically for the performer or band associated with the piece.

You might have a score where the composer is Bach, the arranger is you, and the artist is a specific guitarist or ensemble. All three names can appear on the printed score, each in their designated spot. This keeps the credits clear and accurate.

Exporting Scores With Arranger Information

When you export your Guitar Pro file as a PDF, the arranger name is included in the document's metadata and will print on the pages if your template includes it. If you export as MusicXML or other formats, the arranger information is preserved in that file as well, so other music notation software can read it.

If you share the Guitar Pro file itself with another musician, they will see the arranger name in the Song Properties window. This makes collaboration easier because everyone working on the file knows who arranged the piece and can update the credit if needed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is confusing the Arranger field with the Artist field. Remember: the arranger adapted the music, while the artist typically performs it. If you put a performer's name in the Arranger field, the credits will be misleading.

Another mistake is forgetting to save the file after adding the arranger name. Guitar Pro does not automatically save metadata changes, so always click OK in the Song Properties window and then save your file using File > Save or Ctrl+S (Windows) or Command+S (Mac).

Do not assume the arranger name will appear in a specific spot on every printed page. The placement depends on your score's template and page setup. If the name does not show up where you expect it, check your Page Setup or Layout settings rather than re-entering the name.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the arranger name print on every page of the score?

Usually only on the first page, though this depends on your score's template and page setup. Most default templates place arranger information in the header or footer of the opening page. You can adjust this through Page Setup if you want it on every page or no pages.

Can I add an arranger name to a score that already has a composer listed?

Yes. The Arranger and Composer fields are separate, so you can credit both the original composer and the person who arranged the music. This is common when arranging classical pieces or existing songs for guitar.

What if I export the score as a PDF—will the arranger name be included?

Yes, the arranger name will appear on the PDF if your score template includes it in the layout. The name is part of the document's metadata and will print along with the rest of the score.

Does the arranger field work the same way in all versions of Guitar Pro?

The process is nearly identical across versions, though the window might be labeled "Song Properties" in some versions and "Document Properties" in others. The Arranger field itself works the same way regardless of version.

Can I remove the arranger name after I add it?

Yes. Open Song Properties, click in the Arranger field, delete the text, and click OK. The arranger credit will be removed from the file and will not appear on printed scores.