Multiple voices (divisi) in one part
Multiple Voices (Divisi) in One Part
Divisi, in the context of music notation, refers to the practice of dividing a section or part into multiple voices. This technique allows for the simultaneous performance of different notes or rhythms within a single staff. It is commonly used in orchestral and choral music to create rich and complex textures.
LilyPond: Typesetting Music with Multiple Voices
LilyPond, a powerful music engraving program, offers a solution for typesetting music with multiple voices in one part. The process involves utilizing two different parts and selectively hiding the lower voice for the initial measures. This can be achieved by using the \RemoveEmptyStaves command.
By employing this technique, composers and arrangers can create divisi sections where different voices play distinct musical lines. The result is a visually clear and musically accurate representation of the desired divisi effect.
Dorico: Splitting Voices into Divisi Staves
Dorico, a comprehensive music notation software, provides a feature specifically designed for splitting voices into divisi staves. This functionality enables composers and arrangers to divide a section into separate divisi staves, with each staff representing a different voice.
To achieve this in Dorico, one can select the notes in the downstem voice and utilize the “Move to staff below” command. This action transfers the notes from the downstem voice to a separate divisi staff, allowing for independent editing and playback of each voice.
Flat: Creating Multiple Voices in a Single Staff
Flat, an intuitive online music notation software, offers a straightforward method for creating multiple voices within a single staff. By using the Voice button on the toolbar, composers and arrangers can add a second voice, commonly referred to as Voice 2.
The Voice button allows users to toggle between voices and remove specific voices as needed. This flexibility enables the composition of chords with different durations or the realization of divisi effects in string instruments and orchestral arrangements.
Conclusion
Divisi notation plays a crucial role in creating intricate musical textures and harmonies. LilyPond, Dorico, and Flat offer powerful tools for working with multiple voices within a single part or staff. Whether it is typesetting music, splitting voices into divisi staves, or creating distinct voices, these software solutions provide composers and arrangers with the necessary tools to achieve their desired musical effects.
Sources
- LilyPond – Multiple voices (divisi) in one part. Music: Practice & Theory Stack Exchange. Retrieved from https://music.stackexchange.com/questions/78060/multiple-voices-divisi-in-one-part
- Splitting Voices into divisi staves? – Dorico – Steinberg Forums. Retrieved from https://forums.steinberg.net/t/splitting-voices-into-divisi-staves/747282
- Working with voices (or divisi) – Flat. Retrieved from https://help.flat.io/en/music-notation-software/addvoice/
FAQs
What does “divisi” mean in music notation?
Divisi refers to the practice of dividing a section or part into multiple voices, allowing for different notes or rhythms to be played simultaneously within a single staff.
How can I typeset music with multiple voices in one part using LilyPond?
In LilyPond, you can achieve typesetting music with multiple voices in one part by using two different parts and selectively hiding the lower voice for the initial measures using the \RemoveEmptyStaves command.
Is there a feature in Dorico for splitting voices into divisi staves?
Yes, Dorico provides a feature specifically designed for splitting voices into divisi staves. By selecting the notes in the downstem voice and using the “Move to staff below” command, the downstem voice can be moved to a separate divisi staff.
How can I create multiple voices in a single staff using Flat?
With Flat, you can create multiple voices in a single staff by using the Voice button on the toolbar. By adding a second voice (Voice 2) and toggling between voices using the same button or the “v” keyboard shortcut, you can achieve multiple voices within a single staff.
Can I have different durations or rhythms for each voice in a divisi section?
Yes, divisi notation allows for different durations or rhythms to be assigned to each voice within a divisi section. This flexibility enables composers and arrangers to create intricate musical textures and harmonies within a single part.
Are there any other music notation software programs that support working with multiple voices in one part?
Yes, besides LilyPond, Dorico, and Flat mentioned in this article, there are other music notation software programs available that offer features for working with multiple voices in one part. Some examples include Sibelius, Finale, and MuseScore.
Can I hear the playback of each voice separately in music notation software?
Yes, most music notation software programs allow you to hear the playback of each voice separately. This feature is particularly useful when working with multiple voices in a single part, as it allows you to ensure the accuracy and musicality of each voice.
Are there any specific guidelines or best practices for notating divisi sections?
While there are no strict rules, there are some general guidelines and best practices for notating divisi sections. These include clearly indicating the division of voices, using appropriate stem directions and note placement, and ensuring legibility and clarity in the musical score.