Placement of text and dynamics in vocal scores

Discuss the rules of notation, standard notation practices, efficient notation practices and graphic design.
Post Reply
User avatar
OCTO
Posts: 1742
Joined: 05 Oct 2015, 06:52
Location: Sweden

Placement of text and dynamics in vocal scores

Post by OCTO »

I have a dilemma: if we have 4-part choral music with 4 staves (SATB), and when the text is completely the same for all (homophonic writing), and when the text is placed between SA and TB, where should dynamics go for S and where for A (consequently TB)?
For Soprano it is clear - above, but for Alto?

Or how would you solve that?
Freelance Composer. Self-Publisher.
Finale 27.3 • Sibelius 2023.5• MuseScore 4+ • Logic Pro X+ • Ableton Live 11+ • Digital Performer 10+ /// MacOS Monterey (secondary in use systems: Fedora 35, Windows 10)
Knut
Posts: 867
Joined: 05 Oct 2015, 18:07
Location: Oslo, Norway

Re: Placement of text and dynamics in vocal scores

Post by Knut »

Normally, for choir music written on four staves, each staff should have their own lyrics and dynamics. If this is strictly mostly homophonic, you should probably use two staves (SA and TB). Place the lyrics in the middle and dynamics above and below.
User avatar
OCTO
Posts: 1742
Joined: 05 Oct 2015, 06:52
Location: Sweden

Re: Placement of text and dynamics in vocal scores

Post by OCTO »

Thank you Knut. I will than use separate S A T B and separated text for each.
Post Reply