Expressions

If you upgraded to SongWriter 2012 from an earlier version, see SongWriter 2012 Interface Changes to learn how expressions have changed. 

Expressions are markings that tell the performer how to interpret (or express) a musical passage. In Finale, expressions are generally symbols or text placed above or below the staff. Dynamics, tempo indications (Allegro), and performance practice markings (pizz.) are among the figures added as expressions. Because of their positioning characteristics, expressions are best suited for other types of markings as well, such as rehearsal marks. (Although shapes such as slurs and hairpins are also used to communicate the manner of expression, these are generally added as Smart Shapes, whose properties are specially designed for graphical editing. Markings that apply to a single note/beat are added as Articulations.)

Because similar types of expressions usually share positioning and appearance characteristics, SongWriter separates the different types of expressions into independent categories. Categories permit, for example, all dynamics to automatically share the same font, size, and positioning settings. SongWriter includes six categories already:

In scores with multiple staves, it is standard notation practice to reduce clutter by displaying certain markings on specific staves only. For example, an Allergo tempo indication is generally placed above the top staff of the score, and then above the top staff of each instrumental group. Whenever you add markings in the Tempo Marks, Tempo Alterations, and Rehearsal Marks categories, SongWriter automatically places these markings accordingly. These are markings that inherently apply to every staff of the score simultaneously.

For information regarding specific markings (tempo markings, crescendos, and so on), see their individual entries.

To add an expression or multiple expressions

1.  Click the Expression tool .
2. The Expression Selection dialog box appears.
3. Double-click on, above, or below the note or measure to which you want to attach the marking. To add an expression to multiple staves, click and drag a box around those staves.
4. Choose the category from the list on the left (or choose Show All to display all of them). Each category represents font and positioning settings that apply to all included expressions.

Note. Select an expression handle and press CTRL+HOME or CTRL+END to add the expression to all staves above or below (respectively).

5. Double-click an expression to add it to the score. SongWriter places the expression into the score. Click and drag the expression to change its attachment point (to a different beat or measure). To position the expression relative to a different staff, drag the expression over the desired staff.

To create an expression

1. Click the Expression tool . Double-click where you would like to place the marking. The Expression Selection dialog box appears.
2. Choose the type of expression (itscategory) from the list on the left.

If the desired marking already appears in the list, double-click it or click and press Select. The marking appears in the score. If not, continue with the following instructions to create your own expression...

1. Click Create. The Text Expression Designer dialog box appears.
2. Type the Text Expression. Use the Font drop-down menu below to select a music or number font. Use the Insert drop-down menu to insert a note (i.e. for tempo or metronome markings). See also Tempo markings.
3. Click OK (or press ENTER). You return to the Expression Selection dialog box.
4. Click Select (or press ENTER). The marking appears in the score.

To move or delete an expression

1. Click the Expression tool .
2. Click the measure to which the marking was attached. The marking’s handle appears.
3. Drag the handle to move the marking; select it and press delete to remove it. Once the handle is selected, you can also use the arrow keys to “nudge” the marking for fine positioning.

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