MXL File Extension

What is MXL file?

Files with .MXL extensions store compressed audio data in MusicXML format. MXL uses ZIP compression format that allow to save space (MXL files are similar in size to MIDI files). MXL format was introduced as an extension to MusicXML format to facilitate sheet music exchange and music archiving.

MXL data format

In 2017, version 3.1 of MusicXML standard was released which addressed most of the problems with earlier versions. The standard is maintained by W3C. Developers can use DTD and XSD standard libraries and definitions to implement the standard in their applications. Document that describes contents of compressed MXL files is typically named container.dtd. First version of MXL format was introduced along with version 2.0 of MusicXML standard. MXL are up to 20 times smaller than non-compressed MusicXML files.

MXL containers can also store related tags and resources, such as:

• Images,
• Audio files,
• Other multimedia.

MXL format is currently supported by over 180 sheet music editing and sharing applications. The format was developed by Recordare in 2004.

XML file structure

MusicXML files define the standard for storing data, similar to XML files, by referring to associated DTD or XSD document files. XML files is comprised of:

1. A header that stores parts of given piece – marked with part-list tag,
2. Music parts along with their attributes and notation.

The documentation available on developer’s website offers XLST documents that allow conversion of MusicXML files:

• From version 3.0 to 2.0,
• From version 2.0 to 1.1,
• From version 1.1 to 1.0,
• Between time and part types.

MXL uses popular compression methods and therefore such files can be extracted using any data archive management tools. Sheet music files are typically text files encoded in UTF-8, so any text editor or a web browser should be able to open them with no problem.

Programs which support MXL file extension

The following list contains programs grouped by 3 operating systems that support MXL files. Files with MXL suffix can be copied to any mobile device or system platform, but it may not be possible to open them properly on target system.

Updated: 03/16/2024

How to open file with MXL extension?

Problems with accessing MXL may be due to various reasons. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to Compressed MusicXML Format files aren’t complex. In most cases they can be addressed swiftly and effectively without assistance from a specialist. We have prepared a listing of which will help you resolve your problems with MXL files.

Step 1. Install MuseScore software

Problems with opening and working with MXL files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with MXL files being present on your machine. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing MuseScore or different compatible program, such as Melody Assistant, MakeMusic Finale. On the top of the page a list that contains all programs grouped based on operating systems supported can be found. The safest method of downloading MuseScore installed is by going to developer’s website (Werner Schweer) and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Verify the you have the latest version of MuseScore

If the problems with opening MXL files still occur even after installing MuseScore, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of MuseScore is available. Sometimes software developers introduce new formats in place of that already supports along with newer versions of their applications. If you have an older version of MuseScore installed, it may not support MXL format. All of the file formats that were handled just fine by the previous versions of given program should be also possible to open using MuseScore.

Step 3. Associate Compressed MusicXML Format files with MuseScore

After installing MuseScore (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open MXL files. The process of associating file formats with default application may differ in details depending on platform, but the basic procedure is very similar.

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Right-click the MXL file and choose Open with option
• Next, select the Choose another app option and then using More apps open the list of available applications
• The last step is to select Look for another app on this PC option supply the directory path to the folder where MuseScore is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open MXL files and clicking OK.

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected MXL file open the file menu and choose Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• Select MuseScore and click Change for all...
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with MXL extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Verify that the MXL is not faulty

Should the problem still occur after following steps 1-3, check if the MXL file is valid. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

1. Verify that the MXL in question is not infected with a computer virus

If the MXL is indeed infected, it is possible that the malware is blocking it from opening. It is advised to scan the system for viruses and malware as soon as possible or use an online antivirus scanner. MXL file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

2. Verify that the MXL file’s structure is intact

Did you receive the MXL file in question from a different person? Ask him/her to send it one more time. The file might have been copied erroneously and the data lost integrity, which precludes from accessing the file. When downloading the file with MXL extension from the internet an error may occurred resulting in incomplete file. Try downloading the file again.

3. Ensure that you have appropriate access rights

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

4. Make sure that the system has sufficient resources to run MuseScore

The operating systems may note enough free resources to run the application that support MXL files. Close all running programs and try opening the MXL file.

5. Check if you have the latest updates to the operating system and drivers

Regularly updated system, drivers, and programs keep your computer secure. This may also prevent problems with Compressed MusicXML Format files. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle MXL files.

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