Changing bracket grouping according to ensemble type

You can change which staves are included in brackets by changing the ensemble type for each layout independently; for example, if a part layout containing all percussion players requires different bracketing than used for percussion staves in the full score layout.

The default setting is Orchestral. We recommend that you change this setting for projects containing small ensembles.

Procedure

  1. Press Ctrl/Cmd-Shift-L to open Layout Options.
  2. In the Layouts list, select the layouts in which you want to change the ensemble type for bracket grouping.

    By default, the layout currently open in the music area is selected when you open the dialog. You can select other layouts by using the selection options in the action bar, clicking and dragging across multiple layouts, Shift-clicking adjacent layouts, and Ctrl/Cmd-clicking individual layouts.

  3. In the category list, click Brackets and Braces.
  4. Choose one of the following options for Ensemble type:
    • No brackets

    • Orchestral

    • Small ensemble

    • Wind band

    • Big band

    • British brass band

  5. Click Apply, then Close.

Result

The default bracket grouping is changed in the selected layouts.

Tip
  • There are further options for bracketing on the Brackets and Braces page, such as hiding/showing brackets when there is only a single instrument in the bracket group and hiding/showing braces when only a single staff is shown.

  • Player groups and soloists also influence which staves are bracketed together.

  • You can also input custom bracket/brace grouping for specific staves, independently of the bracket grouping setting in the layout. However, you cannot show or change brackets/braces on blank staves.