Rhythm slashes

Rhythm slashes are diagonal lines positioned on staves that are used to indicate that performers should play something, but without specifying the exact rhythms and pitches. They are often accompanied by chord symbols to indicate the set of notes the performer should use.

There are two different types of rhythm slashes:

  • Slashes with stems, which usually indicate the rhythm to be played, but not the pitches.

  • Slashes without stems, which do not usually indicate either rhythms or pitches.

Slashes with stems are also known as rhythmic notation, and slashes without stems are also known as slash notation.

In Dorico Pro, you can present both types of rhythm slashes simultaneously by using a combination of slash regions and slash voices.