Printed music refers to written musical notation that is produced on paper or other physical media. This format allows musicians to read and perform music without needing to memorize it. Printed music can include various forms, such as sheet music, scores, and songbooks, catering to different instruments and styles. The process of creating printed music involves transcribing melodies, harmonies, and rhythms into symbols that represent musical sounds. This practice has been essential for composers like Ludwig van Beethoven and Johann Sebastian Bach, enabling their works to be shared and performed by musicians around the world.