Moving dynamics graphically

You can move dynamics graphically without changing the rhythmic positions to which they apply. When you select hairpins in Engrave mode, three adjustment handles appear at each end. You can use these handles to lengthen/shorten gradual dynamics graphically. You can do this for the current layout and frame chain only or for all layouts and frame chains.

Prerequisite

  • Graphic Editing is selected in the Engrave toolbox.

  • You have chosen the appropriate property scope for local properties.

Procedure

  1. In Engrave mode, select one of the following that you want to move:
    • Immediate dynamics or whole gradual dynamics

    • Individual handles on gradual dynamics

    Tip

    You can show handles on all items, not just selected items, by choosing Engrave > Show Handles > Always. This can make it easier to select individual handles on multiple items.

  2. Move the dynamics or handles in any of the following ways:
    • Press Alt/Opt-Right Arrow to move them to the right.

    • Press Alt/Opt-Left Arrow to move them to the left.

    • Press Alt/Opt-Up Arrow to move them upwards.

    • Press Alt/Opt-Down Arrow to move them downwards.

      Tip

      If you want to move items by larger increments, you can press Ctrl/Cmd as well as the standard key command, for example, Ctrl/Cmd-Alt/Opt-Left Arrow.

    • Click and drag them in any direction.

Result

The selected dynamics or handles are moved graphically without affecting the rhythmic positions to which they are attached. This also moves all dynamics linked to the selected dynamics in the current layout. If the property scope was set to Locally, this change only takes effect in the current layout and frame chain.

Tip

The following properties in the Dynamics group of the Properties panel are activated automatically when you move dynamics in the corresponding directions:

  • Start offset moves immediate dynamics and the start of gradual dynamics. X moves them horizontally, Y moves them vertically.

  • End offset moves the end of gradual dynamics. X moves them horizontally, Y moves them vertically.

For example, if you move a whole gradual dynamic upwards, both handles are moved so both properties are activated. You can also use these properties to move dynamics graphically by changing the values in the value fields.

Deactivating the properties resets the selected dynamics to their default positions.