"Open Source" is a term you will hear from me a lot and I will keep mentioning it because open source software is generally free and it has become very functional as of late. Starting with my operating system: I use 'Linux Ubuntu' as the standard platform to run all of my programs with on my PC computer. For painting I use the painting software 'Gimp' while the program 'Audacity' is very useful for recording music pieces. Whenever I need to compose note sheets for my music I use 'Musescore'.

From my experience I definately recommend trying open source software before you buy commercial products because you might save quite a bit of money in the process. Have a productive time everyone!