Inputting dynamics with the panel

You can input dynamics and modifiers using the Dynamics panel, both during note input and by adding them to existing music.

Note

You can also change dynamics during note input by following these steps when the caret is at the rhythmic position of the dynamic you want to change.

Procedure

  1. In Write mode, do one of the following:

    • Start note input.

    • Select an item on the staff and at the rhythmic position where you want to input dynamics. If you want to input dynamics across a duration, select items on the staff that span that duration.

  2. In the Notations toolbox, click Panels Panels button, then Dynamics Dynamics button to show the Dynamics panel.
  3. In the Dynamics panel, click the dynamics you want.
    Note

    • If you want to add expressive or qualifying text to the dynamics, do not deselect them.

    • Gradual dynamics have a default duration of a quarter note. You can lengthen/shorten gradual dynamics later.

  4. Optional: In the Dynamics panel, click the expressive/qualifying texts you want in the Immediate Dynamics and Gradual Dynamics sections.

Result

The specified dynamics are input. They apply to all staves belonging to a single instrument, including grand staff instruments.

Adjoining dynamics, or dynamics that were input together or in sequence, are automatically grouped together, both during note input and when adding dynamics to existing music.

During note input, dynamics are input at the caret position. Gradual dynamics are input with a default duration of a quarter note.

When you add dynamics to existing music, immediate dynamics are added to the first item in the selection while gradual dynamics are added across the selection.

Note

  • Some modifiers, such as molto, appear before immediate dynamics rather than after them, even if you do not enter them in that order. This follows the generally accepted practice for the placement of that text.

    You can add modifiers before and after existing dynamics. You can also hide immediate dynamics later if you only want to show the modifier.

  • You can also input gradual dynamics by clicking the gradual dynamic you want in the Dynamics panel when nothing is selected in the music area. Then click and drag to input the gradual dynamic and extend it to the length you want.

After Completing This Task

You can move dynamics within dynamic phrases and change the placement of dynamics relative to the staff.