… If I load them into Finale 27 can I update the fonts to smufl or will they need to remain as written? …

If I am not mistaken, you can not change the older document’s Default Music Font to a SMuFL font.

Instead, create a new, empty SMuFL font document, and transfer the music to the new document.

… As I understand it, the two are not compatible? …

What do you mean by your words “the two”? - fonts? - documents? - programs?

And what do you mean by your words “not compatible”?

Please explain.

… Also as I understand it, it doesn't really make any difference either? …

It does make a difference in the sense that SMuFL fonts contain many, many more characters than the older music fonts.

This means that you can get many special symbols from the SMuFL font.

You do not need to create the symbol in the Shape Designer, or to get the symbol from a special (third party) font.

If I misunderstand you, then I apologize.

The only way to convert a legacy file into a SMuFL version 27 file is to import into a new file via XML (and do whatever cleanup, if any, my remain).

– However, you do not have to convert the older legacy document to a SMuFL document.

Finale v27 can open, edit, save, print the older legacy document just fine.

I meant the two fonts are not compatible with each other. Maestoso and Finale Maestoso. The original question was just about fonts. I thought it pretty clear perhaps not. Sorry.

And, folks these are templates so there is no music involved. The bottom line is if you want smufl fonts you must use Finale 27.

The problem with any upgrade is if you don't use or need it, is it an upgrade. For instance, I really don't care if MM adds ukulele chords since I never have nor likely to ever use them. The same is probably true of smufl fonts. I know there is a lot more characters but I don't remember not having the ones I needed in Finale 26.

However, I believe smufl is the future so I guess I will have to make all my "templates" over.

"Finale v27 can open, edit, save, print the older legacy document just fine."

Yes , I knew that I was just unsure if it is the same for templates but now when I think about it, why would it be different.