What does 'virtual instrument' mean?

A 'virtual instrument' refers specifically to software programs that emulate the sound and playability of traditional musical instruments. These digital tools allow music producers and composers to create sounds that mimic real instruments such as pianos, guitars, drums, and more, without needing the physical presence of these instruments. This is particularly valuable in digital music production settings, where the flexibility and variety provided by virtual instruments can enhance creativity and streamline the composing process.

In contrast, the other choices denote different concepts in music-making. For example, a physical instrument used in studios refers to traditional, tangible instruments that are played by musicians. Instruments played live on stage implies a performance context, focusing on real-time human interaction with the instruments. Musical notation software, meanwhile, relates to tools that help in writing and arranging music on paper or digital format, rather than generating sounds themselves.