Do You Have a Windows Solution?
KeyboardTEK’s computer-based keyboard programming is currently built for Apple MainStage, which runs on macOS.
Because MainStage is an Apple application, our MainStage programming requires a compatible Mac. At this time, we do not offer a Windows version of our MainStage programming.
Table of Contents
Why KeyboardTEK Uses MainStage
Can I Run KeyboardTEK MainStage Programming on Windows?
Can I Use a Windows Computer with Another Program?
What If I Do Not Own a Mac?
Can I Use a Mac mini Instead of a MacBook Pro?
What About Playback Tracks?
Still Have Questions?
Why KeyboardTEK Uses MainStage
KeyboardTEK’s keyboard programming is primarily built in Apple MainStage because MainStage is widely used for live musical theatre keyboard programming.
MainStage allows a keyboard player to perform many different sounds from one keyboard part, including pianos, strings, brass, synths, organs, percussion, sound effects, and other electronic music elements required by the orchestration.
For many productions, MainStage provides a practical and reliable way to perform complex keyboard programming in a live theatre setting.
Can I Run KeyboardTEK MainStage Programming on Windows?
No. MainStage only runs on macOS.
Because KeyboardTEK MainStage programming is built for MainStage, it cannot be opened or performed directly on a Windows computer.
A Windows computer cannot run MainStage, and renaming, converting, or unzipping the files on Windows will not make them usable as a Windows-based performance file.
Can I Use a Windows Computer with Another Program?
KeyboardTEK does not currently provide a Windows-compatible version of our MainStage keyboard programming for other software platforms.
Some music software is available for Windows, but KeyboardTEK MainStage concerts are specifically built for MainStage. Rebuilding a show for a different platform would require separate programming work and may not be available for your title.
If you are interested in a custom non-MainStage solution, contact KeyboardTEK Support before ordering. Availability depends on the show, timeline, licensing permissions, and the scope of the request.
What If I Do Not Own a Mac?
If your production does not own a Mac, you have a few options:
- Borrow or rent a compatible Mac for the production.
- Use a MacBook Pro or Mac mini provided by your theatre, school, or music department.
- Ask KeyboardTEK whether rental hardware is available for your production.
Hardware availability is limited and may depend on your production dates, location, and the equipment required for the show.
Can I Use a Mac mini Instead of a MacBook Pro?
Yes. A Mac mini can be a good MainStage computer when it is set up correctly.
If you use a Mac mini, you will also need:
- A monitor
- A wired keyboard and mouse or trackpad
- A safe place to mount or place the Mac mini
- An audio interface
- The correct MIDI and audio connections for your keyboard setup
A Mac mini can work especially well in a rack or dedicated theatre setup. A MacBook Pro may be simpler for portable setups because the screen, keyboard, and trackpad are built in.
What About Playback Tracks?
KeyboardTEK’s playback solution, KTPlayer, is separate from MainStage keyboard programming.
If your show includes authorized playback material, it may be delivered through KTPlayer rather than MainStage. KTPlayer availability and system compatibility may vary by product and show.
If you are asking about playback tracks rather than live keyboard programming, contact KeyboardTEK Support so we can confirm what is available for your title.
Still Have Questions?
Contact KeyboardTEK Support if you are not sure whether your production has the right computer setup for KeyboardTEK programming.
When contacting us, please include:
- The name of the show
- Whether you need keyboard programming, playback, or both
- Whether you currently have access to a Mac
- Your Mac model, if available
- Your macOS version, if available
- Whether you are asking about a standard MainStage product or a custom solution