@node Reference Manual, , , Top
@menu
* Overview:: Overview
* Top level:: Top level
* notenames:: notenames
* Lexical conventions:: Lexical conventions
* Other languages:: notelang
* modes:: modes
* Types:: Types
* Music expressions:: Music expressions
* Atomic music expressions:: Atomic music expressions
* Note specification:: notedesc
* barlines:: barlines
* Manual beams:: Manual beam
* tremolo:: tremolo
* Compound music expressions:: Compound music expressions
* relative:: relative
* Repeats:: Repeats
* transpose:: transpose
* Ambiguities:: Ambiguities
* Notation conversion specifics:: Notation conversion specifics
* autobeam:: autobeam
* lyricprint:: lyricprint
* Notation Contexts:: Notation Contexts
* Properties:: Changing formatting
* Notation output definitions:: Notation output definitions
* paper:: paper
* Paper variables:: papervars
* contextdefs:: contextdefs
* engravers:: engravers
* Sound output:: Sound output
* midilist:: midilist
* Pre-defined Identifiers:: Pre-defined Identifiers
@end menu
@chapter Reference Manual
@node Overview, , , Reference Manual
@section Overview
This document@footnote{This document has been revised for
LilyPond 1.2.} describes the the GNU LilyPond input format, which is
a language for defining music. We call this language @emph{Music
Definition Language} or @emph{Mudela}, for short.@footnote{If anybody
comes up with a better name, we'd gladly take this. Gourlay already
uses a ``Musical Description Language,'' ISO standard 10743 defines a
``Standard Music Description Language.'' We're not being original
here.}
@emph{Mudela} is a language that allows you to
@itemize @bullet
@item create musical expressions by combining pitches, durations
@item output those musical expressions to various formats
@item give those musical expressions and output definitions names, so
you can enter them in manageable chunks.
@end itemize
@emph{Mudela} aims to define a piece of music completely, both from
typesetting and from a performance point of view.
@node Top level, , , Reference Manual
@section Top level
@cindex top level
This section describes what you may enter at top level.
@cindex score definition
The output is generated combining a music expression with an output
definition. A score block has the following syntax:
@example
\score @{ @var{musicexpr} @var{outputdefs} @}
@end example
@var{outputdefs} are zero or more output definitions. If no output
definition is supplied, the default @code{\paper} block will be added.
@cindex header
@keyindex{header}
The syntax is
@example
\header @{ @var{key1} = @var{val1};
@var{key2} = @var{val2}; @dots{} @}
@end example
A header describes the file's contents. It can also appear in a
@code{\score} block. Tools like @code{ly2dvi}@indexcode{ly2dvi} can use this
information for generating titles. Key values that are used by
@code{ly2dvi} are: title, subtitle, composer, opus, poet, instrument,
metre, arranger, piece and tagline.
It is customary to put the @code{\header} at the top of the file.
@node notenames, , , Reference Manual
Note name tables can be specified using
@example
\notenames@keyindex{notenames}
@{ @var{assignmentlist} @}
@end example
@var{assignmentlist} is a list of definitions of the form
@example
@var{name} = @var{pitch}
@end example
Chord modifiers can be set analogously, with
@code{\chordmodifiers}@keyindex{chordmodifiers}.
A @code{\paper} block at top level sets the default paper block. A
@code{\midi} block at top level works similarly.
LilyPond contains a Scheme interpreter (the GUILE library) for
internal use. The following commands access the interpreter
directly.
@example
\scm @keyindex{scm} @var{scheme} ;
@end example
Evaluates the specified Scheme code. The result is discarded.
@example
\scmfile@keyindex{scmfile} @var{filename};
@end example
Reads Scheme code from the specified file. The result is discarded.
Identifier assignments may appear at top level. Semicolons are
forbidden after top level assignments.
@node Lexical conventions, , , Reference Manual
@section Lexical conventions
@cindex lexical conventions
@cindex comment
@indexcode{%}
A one line comment is introduced by a `@code{%}' character.
Block comments are started by `@code{%@{}' and ended by `@code{%@}}'.
They cannot be nested.
@cindex keyword
Keywords start with a backslash, followed by a number of lower case
alphabetic characters. These are all the keywords.
@example
\accepts
\addlyrics
\alternative
\bar
\breathe
\chordmodifiers
\chords
\clef
\cm
\consists
\consistsend
\context
\duration
\font
\grace
\header
\in
\key
\keysignature
\lyrics
\mark
\midi
\mm
\musicalpitch
\name
\notenames
\notes
\paper
\partial
\penalty
\property
\pt
\relative
\remove
\repeat
\repetitions
\scm
\scmfile
\score
\script
\sequential
\shape
\simultaneous
\skip
\spanrequest
\tempo
\textscript
\time
\times
\translator
\transpose
\type
@end example
@cindex integer
Formed from an optional minus sign followed by digits. Arithmetic
operations cannot be done with integers, and integers cannot be mixed
with reals.
@cindex real
Formed from an optional minus sign and a sequence of digits followed
by a @emph{required} decimal point and an optional exponent such as
@code{-1.2e3}. Reals can be built up using the usual operations:
`@code{+}@indexcode{+}', `@code{-}@indexcode{-}', `@code{*}@indexcode{*}', and
`@code{/}@indexcode{/}', with parentheses for grouping.
A real constant can be followed by one of the dimension
keywords:
@cindex dimensions
@code{\mm}@keyindex{mm},
@code{\pt}@keyindex{pt}, @code{\in}@keyindex{in}, or
@code{\cm}@keyindex{cm}, for millimeters, points, inches and
centimeters, respectively. This converts the number to a real that
is the internal representation of dimensions.
@cindex string
Begins and ends with the `@code{"}' character. To include a `@code{"}'
character in a string write `@code{\"}'. Various other backslash
sequences have special interpretations as in the C language. A
string that contains no spaces can be written without the quotes.
See section XREF-modes [FIXME] for details on unquoted strings; their
interpretation varies depending on the situation. Strings can be
concatenated with the `@code{+}' operator.
The tokenizer accepts the following commands. They can appear
anywhere.
@example
\maininput@keyindex{maininput}
@end example
This command is used in init files to signal that the user file must
be read. This command cannot be used in a user file.
@example
\include@keyindex{include} @var{file}
@end example
Include @var{file}. The argument @var{file} may be a quoted string (an
unquoted string will not work here!) or a string identifier. The full
filename including the @file{.ly} extension must be given,
@example
\version@keyindex{version} @var{string} ;
@end example
Specify the version of LilyPond that a file was written for. The
argument is a version string in quotes, for example @code{"1.2.0"}.
This is used to detect invalid input, and to aid
@code{convert-mudela}, a tool that automatically upgrades input files.
@cindex other languages
@node Other languages, , , Reference Manual
Note name definitions have been provided in various languages.
Simply include the language specific init file. For example:
`@code{\include "english.ly"}'. The available language files and the
names they define are:
@quotation
@example
Note Names sharp flat
nederlands.ly c d e f g a bes b -is -es
english.ly c d e f g a bf b -s/-sharp -f/-flat
deutsch.ly c d e f g a b h -is -es
norsk.ly c d e f g a b h -iss/-is -ess/-es
svenska.ly c d e f g a b h -iss -ess
italiano.ly do re mi fa sol la sid si -d -b
catalan.ly do re mi fa sol la sid si -d/-s -b
@end example
@end quotation
Pitch names can be redefined using the
@code{\notenames}@keyindex{notenames} command, see
subsection XREF-notenames [FIXME].
@cindex lexical modes
@cindex modes
@node modes, , , Reference Manual
To simplify entering notes, lyrics, and chords, @emph{Mudela} has three
special input modes on top of the default mode. In each mode, words
are identified on the input. If @code{"word"} is encountered, it is
treated as a string. If @code{\word} is encountered, it is treated as
a keyword or as an identifier. The behavior of the modes differs in
two ways: Different modes treat unquoted words differently, and
different modes have different rules for deciding what is a word.
@table @samp
@item Normal mode.
@cindex mode!normal
At the start of parsing, @emph{Mudela} is in Normal mode. In Normal
mode, a word is an alphabetic character followed by alphanumeric
characters. If @code{word} is encountered on the input it is
treated as a string.
@item Note mode.
@cindex mode!note
Note mode is introduced by the keyword
@code{\notes}@keyindex{notes}. In Note mode, words can only
contain alphabetic characters. If @code{word} is encountered,
LilyPond first checks for a notename of @code{word}. If no
notename is found, then @code{word} is treated as a string.
Since combinations of numbers and dots are used for indicating
durations, it is not possible to enter real numbers in this mode.
@item Chord mode.
@cindex mode!chord
Chord mode is introduced by the keyword
@code{\chords}@keyindex{chords}. It is similar to Note mode, but
words are also looked up in a chord modifier table (containing
@code{maj}, @code{dim}, etc).
Since combinations of numbers and dots are used for indicating
durations, you can not enter real numbers in this mode. Dashes
and carets are used to indicate chord additions and subtractions,
so scripts can not be entered in Chord mode.
@item Lyrics mode.
@cindex mode!lyric
Lyrics mode is introduced by the keyword
@code{\lyrics}@keyindex{lyrics}. This mode has rules that make it
easy to include punctuation and diacritical marks in words. A
word in Lyrics mode begins with: an alphabetic character,
`@code{_}', `@code{?}', `@code{!}', `@code{:}', `@code{'}', the
control characters @code{^A} through @code{^F}, @code{^Q} through
@code{^W}, @code{^Y}, @code{^^}, any 8-bit character with ASCII code
over 127, or a two-character combination of a backslash followed
by one of `@code{`}', `@code{'}', `@code{"}', or
`@code{^}'.@footnote{The purpose of Lyrics mode is that you can
enter lyrics in TeX format or a standard encoding without
needing quotes. The precise definition of this mode indeed is
ludicrous. This will remain so until the authors of LilyPond
acquire a deeper understanding of character encoding, or someone
else steps up to fix this.}
Subsequent characters of a word can be any character that is not
a digit and not white space. One important consequence of this
is that a word can end with `@code{@}}', which may be confusing if
you thought the closing brace was going to terminate Lyrics
mode.@footnote{LilyPond will issue a warning, though.} Any
`@code{_}' characters which appear in an unquoted word are
converted to spaces. This provides a mechanism for introducing
spaces into words without using quotes. Quoted words can also be
used in Lyrics mode to specify words that cannot be written with
the above rules. Here are some examples. Not all of these words
are printable by TeX.
@quotation
@example
Ah! % a word
2B_||_!2B % not a word because it starts with a digit
``Hello'' % not a word because it starts with `
_ _ _ _ % 4 words, each one a space
@end example
@end quotation
Since combinations of numbers and dots are used for indicating
durations, you can not enter real numbers in this mode.
@end table
It is possible to create words that break the rules by prefixing them
with the dollar sign `@code{$}@indexcode{$}'. Regardless of the context, a
word beginning with `@code{$}' extends until the next white space
character. Such words can contain numbers (even in Note mode), or
other forbidden characters. The dollar sign can be used to create
and access identifiers that could not otherwise be used.@footnote{Use
of `@code{$}' hampers readability and portability to future LilyPond
versions, thus the use of the dollar sign is discouraged.}
@node Types, , , Reference Manual
@section Types
@cindex types and identifiers
@emph{Mudela} has a limited set of types:
@itemize @bullet
@item integers
@item reals
@item strings
@item music expressions
@item durations of notes and rests (specified with
@code{\notenames}@keyindex{notenames})
@item note name tables
@item context definitions, part of output definitions. See
section XREF-contextdefs [FIXME] for more information
@item output definitions (like @code{\paper}@keyindex{paper} blocks
and @code{\midi}@keyindex{midi} blocks)
@item score definitions (@code{\score}@keyindex{score} blocks)
@end itemize
Type is a syntactical property: @emph{Mudela} has no real type system,
so there is no support for generic expressions, functions, or user
defined types. For the same reason, it is not possible to mix reals
and integers in arithmetic expressions, and ``type
errors''
@cindex type error
(e.g., using a string identifier to
initialize a @code{\paper}@keyindex{paper} block) will yield a ``parse
error''.
Identifiers allow objects to be assigned to names. To assign an
identifier, you use `@var{name}=@var{value}' and to refer to an
identifier, you preceed its name with a backslash:
`@code{\}@var{name}'. Identifier assignments must appear at top level
in the @emph{Mudela} file. Semicolons are forbidden after assignments
appearing at top level but they are obligatory after assignments
appearing in the @code{\paper} block, see Section XREF-paper [FIXME].
@var{value} is any of the types listed above.
An identifier can be created with any string for its name, but you
will only be able to refer to identifiers whose names begin with a
letter, being entirely alphanumeric. It is impossible to refer to an
identifier whose name is the same as the name of a keyword.
The right hand side of an identifier assignment is parsed completely
before the assignment is done, so it is allowed to redefine an
identifier in terms of its old value, e.g.
@example
foo = \foo * 2.0
@end example
When an identifier is referenced, the information it points to is
copied. Therefore it only makes sense to put identifiers for
translators, output definitions, and @code{\score}@keyindex{score}
blocks as the first item in a block. For this reason, if you
reference a @code{\foo} variable in a @code{\foo} block, it must be the
first item in the list following @code{\foo}.@footnote{@code{\paper@{\one
\two@}} does not make sense, because the information of @code{\two}
would overwrite the information of @code{\one}, thereby making the
reference to the first identifier useless.}
@node Music expressions, , , Reference Manual
@section Music expressions
@cindex music expressions
Music in @emph{Mudela} is entered as a music expression. Notes, rests,
lyric syllables are music expressions (the atomic
expressions)
@cindex atomic music expressions
, and you can combine
music expressions to form new ones. This example forms a compound
expressions out of the quarter @code{c} note and a @code{d}
note:
@example
\sequential @{ c4 d4 @}
@end example
The meaning of this compound expression is to play the `@code{c}'
first, and then the `@code{d}' (as opposed to playing them
simultaneously, for instance).
Atomic music expression are discussed in
subsection XREF-atomicmusic [FIXME]. Compound music expressions are
discussed in subsection XREF-compoundmusic [FIXME].
@node Atomic music expressions, , , Reference Manual
@section Atomic music expressions
@cindex pitch
@cindex duration
The syntax for pitch specification is
@example
\musicalpitch@keyindex{musicalpitch} @{ @var{octave} @var{note} @var{shift} @}
@end example
@var{octave} is specified by an integer, zero for the octave
containing middle C. @var{note} is a number from 0 to 7, with 0
corresponding to C and 7 corresponding to B. The shift is zero for a
natural, negative to add flats, or positive to add sharps.
In Note and Chord mode, pitches may be designated by names. See
section XREF-notelang [FIXME] for pitch names in different languages.
The syntax for duration specification is
@example
\duration@keyindex{duration}
@{ @var{length} @var{dotcount} @}
@end example
@var{length} is the negative logarithm (base 2) of the duration:
1 is a half note, 2 is a quarter note, 3 is an eighth
note, etc. The number of dots after the note is given by
@var{dotcount}.
In Note, Chord, and Lyrics mode, durations may be designated by
numbers and dots. See Section XREF-notelang [FIXME] for details.
@node Note specification, , , Reference Manual
@cindex note specification
@cindex pitches
@cindex entering notes
A note specification has the form
@example
@var{pitch}[@var{octavespec}][!][?][@var{duration}]
@end example
The pitch of the note is specified by the note's name.
The default names are the Dutch note names. The notes are specified
by the letters `@code{c}' through `@code{b}', where `@code{c}' is an
octave below middle C and the letters span the octave above that C.
In Dutchcindex(notenames!Dutch), a sharp is formed by adding
`@code{-is}' to the end of a pitch name. A flat is formed by adding
`@code{-es}'. Double sharps and double flats are obtained by adding
`@code{-isis}' or `@code{-eses}'. `@code{aes}' and `@code{ees}' are
contracted to `@code{as}' and `@code{es}' in Dutch, but both forms will
be accepted.
LilyPond has predefined sets of notenames for various languages. See
section XREF-notelang [FIXME] for details.
The optional octave specification takes the form of a series of
single quote (`@code{'}@indexcode{'}') characters or a series of comma
(`@code{,}@indexcode{,}') characters. Each @code{'} raises the pitch by one
octave; each @code{,} lowers the pitch by an octave.
@mudela[fragment,verbatim,center]
c' d' e' f' g' a' b' c''
@end mudela
@mudela[fragment,verbatim,center]
cis' dis' eis' fis' gis' ais' bis'
@end mudela
@mudela[fragment,verbatim,center]
ces' des' es' fes' ges' as' bes'
@end mudela
@mudela[fragment,verbatim,center]
cisis' eisis' gisis' aisis' beses'
@end mudela
@mudela[fragment,verbatim,center]
ceses' eses' geses' ases' beses'
@end mudela
Whenever a C-sharp is desired, you must specify a C-sharp. LilyPond
will determine what accidentals to typeset depending on the key and
context. A reminder accidental
@cindex reminder accidental
can be
forced by adding an exclamation mark `@code{!}' after the pitch. A
cautionary accidental,
@cindex cautionary accidental
i.e., an
accidental within parentheses can be obtained by adding the question
mark `@code{?}@indexcode{?}' after the pitch.
@mudela[fragment,verbatim,center]
cis' d' e' cis' c'? d' e' c'!
@end mudela
@cindex duration
Durations are entered as their reciprocal values. For notes longer
than a whole note, use identifiers.
@quotation
@example
c'\longa c'\breve
c'1 c'2 c'4 c'8 c'16 c'32 c'64 c'64
@end example
@end quotation
@quotation
@mudela[]
\score {
\notes \relative c'' {
a\longa a\breve
a1 a2 a4 a8 a16 a32 a64 a64
}
\paper {
loose_column_distance = 2.5 * \interline;
linewidth = -1.0;
\translator {
\type "Score_engraver";
\name "Score";
\consists "Note_heads_engraver";
\consists "Stem_engraver";
\consists "Rhythmic_column_engraver";
}
}
}
@end mudela
@end quotation
@quotation
@example
r\longa r\breve
r1 r2 r4 r8 r16 r32 r64 r64
@end example
@end quotation
@quotation
@mudela[]
\score {
\notes \relative c'' {
r\longa r\breve
r1 r2 r4 r8 r16 r32 r64 r64
}
\paper {
loose_column_distance = 2.5 * \interline;
linewidth = -1.0;
\translator {
\type "Score_engraver";
\name "Score";
\consists "Rest_engraver";
\consists "Stem_engraver";
\consists "Rhythmic_column_engraver";
}
}
}
@end mudela
@end quotation
If the duration is omitted then it is set equal to the previous
duration. If there is no previous duration, a quarter note is
assumed. The duration can be followed by a dot (`@code{.}@indexcode{.}')
to obtain dotted note lengths.
@mudela[fragment,verbatim,center]
a'4. b'4.
@end mudela
You can alter the length of duration by writing
`@code{*}@var{fraction}' after it. This will not affect the
appearance of note heads or rests.
Rests are entered like notes, with note name `@code{r}@indexcode{r}',
or `@code{R}@indexcode{R}'. There is also a note name `@code{s}@indexcode{s}',
which produces a space of the specified duration.
`@code{R}' is specifically meant for entering parts: the @code{R} rest
can expand to fill a score with rests, or it can be printed as a
single multimeasure rest.
@cindex lyrics expressions
Syllables are entered like notes, with pitches replaced by text. For
example, `@code{Twin-4 kle4 twin-4 kle4}' enters four syllables, each
with quarter note duration. Note that the hyphen has no special
meaning for lyrics, and does not introduce special symbols. See
section XREF-modes [FIXME] for a description of what is interpreted as
lyrics.
Spaces can be introduced into a lyric either by using quotes
(`@code{"}') or by using an underscore without quotes: `@code{He_could4
not4}'. All unquoted underscores are converted to spaces. Printing
lyrics is discussed in section XREF-lyricprint [FIXME].
@cindex properties
@example
\property@keyindex{property}
@var{contextname}.@var{propname} = @var{value}
@end example
Sets the @var{propname} property of the context @var{contextname} to
the specified @var{value}. All three arguments are strings.
Depending on the context, it may be necessary to quote the strings or
to leave space on both sides of the dot.
@cindex translator switches
@example
\translator@keyindex{translator}
@var{contexttype} = @var{name}
@end example
A music expression indicating that the context which is a direct
child of the a context of type @var{contexttype} should be shifted to
a context of type @var{contexttype} and the specified name.
Usually this is used to switch staffs in Piano music, e.g.
@example
\translator Staff = top @var{Music}
@end example
@cindex commands
Commands are music expressions that have no duration.
@example
@code{\key}@keyindex{key} @var{pitch} @var{type} @code{;}
@end example
Change the key signature. @var{type} should be
@code{\major}@keyindex{major} or @code{\minor}@keyindex{minor} to get
@var{pitch}-major or @var{pitch}-minor, respectively. The second
argument is optional; the default is major keys. The @var{\context}
argument can also be given as an integer, which tells the number of
semitones that should be added to the pitch given in the subsequent
@code{\key}@keyindex{key} commands to get the corresponding major key,
e.g., @code{\minor}@keyindex{minor} is defined as 3. The standard
mode names @code{\ionian}@keyindex{ionian},
@code{\locrian}@keyindex{locrian}, @code{\aeolian}@keyindex{aeolian},
@code{\mixolydian}@keyindex{mixolydian}, @code{\lydian}@keyindex{lydian},
@code{\phrygian}@keyindex{phrygian}, and @code{\dorian}@keyindex{dorian}
are also defined.
@example
@code{\keysignature}@keyindex{keysignature} @var{pitchseq} @code{;}
@end example
Specify an arbitrary key signature. The pitches from @var{pitch} will
be printed in the key signature in the order that they appear on the
list.
@example
\mark@keyindex{mark} @var{unsigned};
\mark @var{string};
@end example
Prints a mark over or under (depending on the
@code{markDirection}@indexcode{markDirection} property) the staff. You must add
@code{Mark_engraver}@indexcode{Mark_engraver} to either the Score or Staff context for
this to work.
@node barlines, , , Reference Manual
@example
\bar@keyindex{bar} @var{bartype};
@end example
This is a request to print a special bar symbol. It replaces the
regular bar symbol with a special
symbol. The argument @var{bartype} is a string which specifies the
kind of bar to print. Options are @code{":|"}
@cindex "|A@@@code{:|}
,
@code{"|:"}
@cindex "|B@@@code{|:}
, @code{":|:"}
@cindex "|C@@@code{:|:}
,
@code{"||"}
@cindex "|D@@@code{||}
, @code{"|."}
@cindex "|E@@@code{|.}
,
@code{".|"}
@cindex "|F@@@code{.|}
, and @code{".|."}
@cindex "|G@@@code{.|.}
.
These produce, respectively, a right repeat, a left repeat, a double
repeat, a double bar, a start bar, an end bar, and a thick double
bar. If @var{bartype} is set to @code{"empty"} then nothing is
printed, but a line break is allowed at that spot.
You are encouraged to use @code{\repeat} for repetitions.
See section XREF-sec-repeats [FIXME].
@example
\time@keyindex{time} @var{numerator}@code{/}@var{denominator} @code{;}
@end example
Change the time signature. The default time signature is 4/4.
The time signature is used to generate bar lines.
@example
\tempo@keyindex{tempo} @var{duration} = @var{perminute} @code{;}
@end example
Used to specify the tempo. For example, `@code{\tempo 4 = 76;}'
requests output with 76 quarter notes per minute.
@example
\partial@keyindex{partial} @var{duration} @code{;}
@end example
@cindex anacrusis
@cindex upstep
This creates an incomplete measure (anacrusis, upbeat) at the start of
the music, e.g., `@code{\partial 8*2;}' creates a starting measure
lasting two eighth notes.
@example
@code{|}@indexcode{|}
@cindex bar check
@end example
@cindex shorten measures
@cindex upstep
`@code{|}' is a barcheck. Whenever a barcheck is encountered during
interpretation, a warning message is issued if it doesn't fall at a
measure boundary. This can help you finding errors in the input.
The beginning of the measure will be relocated, so this can also
be used to shorten measures.
@example
\penalty@keyindex{penalty} @var{int} @code{;}
@end example
Discourage or encourage line breaks. See identifiers
@code{\break}@keyindex{break} and @code{\nobreak}@keyindex{nobreak} in
section [on identifiers] [FIXME].
@example
\clef@keyindex{clef} @var{clefname} @code{;}
@end example
Music expression that sets the current clef. The argument is a
string which specifies the name of the clef. Several clef names are
supported. If `@code{_8}' or `@code{^8}' is added to the end of a clef
name, then the clef lowered or raised an octave will be generated.
Here are the supported clef names with middle C shown in each
clef:
@quotation
@mudela[]
\score {
\notes {
\cadenzaOn
%\property Voice.textStyle = typewriter
\clef subbass; c'4-"\kern -5mm subbass"
\clef bass; c'4^"\kern -2mm bass"
\clef baritone; c'4_"\kern -5mm baritone"
\clef varbaritone; c'4^"\kern -6mm varbaritone"
\clef tenor; c'4_"\kern -3mm tenor"
\clef "G_8"; c'4^"\kern -2mm G\\_8"
}
\paper {
linewidth = -1.0;
}
}
@end mudela
@end quotation
@quotation
@mudela[]
\score {
\notes {
\cadenzaOn
\clef alto; c'4_"\kern -2mm alto"
\clef mezzosoprano; c'4^"\kern -9mm mezzosoprano"
\clef soprano; c'4_"\kern -6mm soprano"
\clef treble; c'4^"\kern -4mm treble"
\clef french; c'4_"\kern -4mm french"
}
\paper {
linewidth = 4.5 \in;
}
}
@end mudela
@end quotation
The three clef symbols can also be obtained using the names `@code{G}',
`@code{C}' or `@code{F}', optionally followed by an integer which
indicates at which note line the clef is located. An as example, the
@code{mezzosoprano} clef can also be given as `@code{C2}'.
@example
\skip@keyindex{skip} @var{duration} @code{;}
@end example
Skips the amount of time specified by @var{duration}. If no other
music is played, a gap will be left for the skipped time with no
notes printed. It works in Note Mode or Lyrics Mode. In Note mode,
this has the same effect as the space rest `@code{s}'.
@cindex beams
@node Manual beams, , , Reference Manual
A beam is specified by surrounding the beamed notes with brackets
`@code{[}@indexcode{[}' and `@code{]}@indexcode{]}'.
@mudela[fragment,verbatim,center]
[a'8 a'] [a'16 a' a' a']
@end mudela
Some more elaborate constructions:
@mudela[fragment,verbatim,center]
[a'16 c'' ]
\times 2/3 { [e'8 f' g'] }
@end mudela
Beaming can be generated automatically; see section XREF-autobeam [FIXME].
To place tremolo marks
@cindex tremolo beams
between two notes, begin
with `@code{[:}@var{length}' and end with `@code{]}'. Tremolo marks
will appear instead of beams. Putting more than two notes in such a
construction will produce odd effects. To create tremolo beams on a
single note, simply attach `@code{:}@var{length}' to the note itself
(see also section XREF-tremolo [FIXME]).
@mudela[fragment,verbatim,center]
[:16 e'1 g'] [:8 e'4 f']
@end mudela
@mudela[fragment,verbatim,center]
c'4:32 [:16 c'8 d'8]
@end mudela
@cindex --@@@code{-}@code{-}
@indexcode{__}
@cindex extender
@cindex hyphen
The syntax for an extender mark is `@code{__}'. This syntax can only
be used within lyrics mode. The syntax for a spanning hyphen (i.e.,
a hyphen that will be printed between two lyric syllables) is
`@code{-}@code{-}'.
@cindex ties
A tie connects two adjacent note heads of the same pitch. When used
with chords, it connects all of the note heads whose pitches match.
Ties are indicated using the tilde symbol `@code{~}@indexcode{~}'.
If you try to tie together chords which have no common pitches, a
warning message will appear and no ties will be created.
@mudela[fragment,verbatim,center]
e' ~ e' ~
@end mudela
[TODO: explain Requests]
@cindex articulations
@cindex scripts
@cindex ornaments
A variety of symbols can appear above and below notes to indicate
different characteristics of the performance. These symbols can be
added to a note with `@var{note}@code{-\}@var{name}'. Numerous symbols
are defined in @file{script.ly} and @file{script.scm}. Symbols can be
forced to appear above or below the note by writing
`@var{note}@code{^\}@var{name}' and `@var{note}@code{_\}@var{name}'
respectively. Here is a chart showing symbols above notes, with the
name of the corresponding symbol appearing underneath.
@mudela[]
\score {
< \notes {
c''-\accent c''-\marcato c''-\staccatissimo c''-\fermata
c''-\stopped c''-\staccato c''-\tenuto c''-\upbow
c''-\downbow c''^\lheel c''-\rheel c''^\ltoe
c''-\rtoe c''-\turn c''-\open c''-\flageolet
c''-\reverseturn c''-\trill c''-\prall c''-\mordent
c''-\prallprall c''-\prallmordent c''-\upprall c''-\downprall
c''-\thumb c''-\segno c''-\coda
}
\context Lyrics \lyrics {
accent__ marcato__ staccatissimo__ fermata
stopped__ staccato__ tenuto__ upbow
downbow__ lheel__ rheel__ ltoe
rtoe__ turn__ open__ flageolet
reverseturn__ trill__ prall__ mordent
prallprall__ prallmordent__ uprall__ downprall
thumb__ segno__ coda
}
>
\paper {
linewidth = 5.875\in;
indent = 0.0;
}
}
@end mudela
In addition, it is possible to place arbitrary strings of text or
TeX above or below notes by using a string instead of an
identifier: `@code{c^"text"}'. Fingerings
@cindex fingering
can be
placed by simply using digits. All of these note ornaments appear in
the printed output but have no effect on the MIDI rendering of the
music.
To save typing, fingering instructions (digits 0 to 9 are
supported) and single characters shorthands exist for a few
common symbols
@mudela[]
\score {
\notes {
\property Voice.textStyle = typewriter
c''4-._"c-." s4
c''4--_"c-{}-" s4
c''4-+_"c-+" s4
c''4-|_"c-|" s4
c''4->_"c->" s4
c''4-^_"c-\\^{ }" s4
c''4-1_"c-1" s4
c''4-2_"c-2" s4
c''4-3_"c-3" s4
c''4-4_"c-4" s4
}
\paper {
linewidth = 5.875 \in;
indent = 0.0;
}
}
@end mudela
Dynamic marks are specified by using an identifier after a note:
`@code{c4-\ff}' (the dash is optional for dynamics: `@code{c4 \ff})'.
The available dynamic marks are:
@code{\ppp}@keyindex{ppp},
@code{\pp}@keyindex{pp}, @code{\p}@keyindex{p}, @code{\mp}@keyindex{mp},
@code{\mf}@keyindex{mf}, @code{\f}@keyindex{f}, @code{\ff}@keyindex{ff},
@code{\fff}@keyindex{fff}, @code{\fff}@keyindex{ffff},
@code{\fp}@keyindex{fp}, @code{\sf}@keyindex{sf},
@code{\sff}@keyindex{sff}, @code{\sp}@keyindex{sp},
@code{\spp}@keyindex{spp}, @code{\sfz}@keyindex{sfz}, and
@code{\rfz}@keyindex{rfz}.
@example
\textscript@keyindex{textscript} @var{text} @var{style}
@end example
Defines a text to be printed over or under a note. @var{style} is a
string that may be one of @code{roman}, @code{italic}, @code{typewriter},
@code{bold}, @code{Large}, @code{large}, @code{dynamic} or @code{finger}.
You can attach a general textscript request using this syntax:
@quotation
@example
c4-\textscript "6" "finger"
c4-\textscript "foo" "normal"
@end example
@end quotation
This is equivalent to `@code{c4-6 c4-"foo"}'.
@cindex scripts
@example
\script@keyindex{script} @var{alias}
@end example
Prints a symbol above or below a note. The argument is a string
which points into the script-alias table defined in @file{script.scm}.
The scheme definitions specify whether the symbol follows notes into
the staff, dependence of symbol placement on staff direction, and a
priority for placing several symbols over one note. Usually the
@code{\script}@keyindex{script} keyword is not used directly. Various
helpful identifier definitions appear in @file{script.ly}.
@cindex slur
Slurs connects chords and try to avoid crossing stems. A slur is
started with `@code{(}' and stopped with `@code{)}'. The
starting `@code{(}' appears to the right of the first note in
the slur. The terminal `@code{)}' appears to the left of the
first note in the slur. This makes it possible to put a note in
slurs from both sides:
@mudela[fragment,verbatim,center]
f'()g'()a' [a'8 b'(] a'4 g'2 )f'4
@end mudela
@cindex crescendo
A crescendo mark is started with @code{\cr}@keyindex{cr} and terminated
with @code{\rc}@keyindex{rc}. A decrescendo mark is started with
@code{\decr}@keyindex{decr} and terminated with
@code{\rced}@keyindex{rced}. There are also shorthands for these
marks. A crescendo can be started with @code{\<}@keyindex{<} and a
decrescendo can be started with @code{\>}@keyindex{>}. Either one can
be terminated with @code{\!}@keyindex{"!}. Note that @code{\!}
must go before the last note of the dynamic mark whereas @code{\rc}
and @code{\rced} go after the last note. Because these marks are
bound to notes, if you want to get several marks during one note, you
must use spacer notes.
@mudela[fragment,verbatim,center]
c'' \< \! c'' d'' \decr e'' \rced
< f''1 { s4 \< \! s2 \> \! s4 } >
@end mudela
@example
\spanrequest@keyindex{spanrequest} @var{startstop} @var{type}
@end example
Define a spanning request. The @var{startstop} parameter is either -1
(@code{\start}@keyindex{start}) or 1 (@code{\stop}@keyindex{stop}) and
@var{type} is a string that describes what should be started.
Supported types are @code{crescendo}, @code{decrescendo},
@code{beam}, @code{slur}. This is an internal command. Users should
use the shorthands which are defined in the initialization file
@file{spanners.ly}.
You can attach a (general) span request to a note using
@mudela[fragment,verbatim,center]
c'4-\spanrequest \start "slur"
c'4-\spanrequest \stop "slur"
@end mudela
The slur syntax with parentheses is a shorthand for this.
@cindex tremolo marks
@node tremolo, , , Reference Manual
Tremolo marks can be printed on a single note by adding
`@code{:}[@var{length}]' after the note. The length must be at
least 8. A @var{length} value of 8 gives one line across
the note stem. If the length is omitted, then the last value is
used, or the value of the @code{abbrev}@indexcode{abbrev} property if there was
no last value.
@mudela[verbatim,fragment,center]
c'2:8 c':32
@end mudela
@node Compound music expressions, , , Reference Manual
@section Compound music expressions
@cindex compound music expressions
Music expressions are compound data structures. You can nest music
expressions any way you like. This simple example shows how three
chords can be expressed in two different ways:
@mudela[fragment,verbatim,center]
\notes \context Staff {
\cadenzaOn
< { a b c' } { c' d' e' } >
}
@end mudela
@cindex context selection
@c @keyindex{context}
@example
\context @var{contexttype} [= @var{contextname}] @var{musicexpr}
@end example
Interpret @var{musicexpr} within a context of type @var{contexttype}.
If the context does not exist, it will be created. The new context
can optionally be given a name. See
section XREF-contextselection [FIXME] and XREF-contextdefs [FIXME] for more
information on interpretation contexts.
@cindex input modes
@cindex mode switch
Mode switching keywords form compound music expressions: @code{\notes}
@keyindex{notes} @var{musicexpr}, @code{\chords} @keyindex{chords}
@var{musicexpr}, and @code{\lyrics} @keyindex{lyrics} @var{musicexpr}.
These expressions do not add anything to the meaning of their
arguments. They are just a way to indicate that the arguments should
be parsed in indicated mode. See section XREF-modes [FIXME] for more
information on modes.
More information on context selection can be found in
section XREF-contextselection [FIXME].
@cindex sequential music
@example
\sequential@keyindex{sequential}
@code{@{} @var{musicexprlist} @code{@}}
@end example
This means that list should be played or written in sequence, i.e.,
the second after the first, the third after the second. The duration
of sequential music is the the sum of the durations of the elements.
There is a shorthand, which leaves out the keyword:
@example
@code{@{} @var{musicexprlist} @code{@}}
@end example
@cindex simultaneous music
@indexcode{<}
@indexcode{>}
@example
\simultaneous@keyindex{simultaneous}
@code{@{} @var{musicexprlist} @code{@}}
@end example
It constructs a music expression where all of its arguments start at
the same moment. The duration is the maximum of the durations of the
elements. The following shorthand is a common idiom:
@example
@code{<} @var{musicexprlist} @code{>}
@end example
If you try to use a chord as the first thing in your score, you might
get multiple staffs instead of a chord.
@mudela[verbatim,center]
\score {
\notes
\paper {
linewidth = -1.;
}
}
@end mudela
This happens because the chord is interpreted by a score context.
Each time a note is encountered a default Voice context (along with a
Staff context) is created. The solution is to explicitly instantiate
a Voice context:
@mudela[verbatim,center]
\score {
\notes\context Voice
\paper {
linewidth = -1.;
}
}
@end mudela
@cindex relative pitch specification
@node relative, , , Reference Manual
It is easy to get confused by octave changing marks and accidentally
putting a pitch in the wrong octave. A much better way of entering a
note's octave is `the relative octave' mode.
@example
\relative@keyindex{relative} @var{startpitch} @var{musicexpr}
@end example
The octave of notes that appear in @var{musicexpr} are calculated as
follows: If no octave changing marks are used, the basic interval
between this and the last note is always taken to be a fourth or
less.@footnote{The interval is determined without regarding
accidentals. A @code{fisis} following a @code{ceses} will be put above
the @code{ceses}.} The octave changing marks `@code{'}' and `@code{,}'
can then be added to raise or lower the pitch by an extra octave.
Upon entering relative mode, an absolute starting pitch must be
specified that will act as the predecessor of the first note of
@var{musicexpr}.
Entering scales is straightforward in relative mode.
@mudela[fragment,verbatim,center]
\relative c' {
c d e f g a b c c,
}
@end mudela
And octave changing marks are used for intervals greater than a fourth.
@mudela[fragment,verbatim,center]
\relative c'' {
c g c f, c' a, e'' }
@end mudela
If the preceding item is a chord, the first note of the chord is used
to determine the first note of the next chord. But other notes
within the second chord are determined by looking at the immediately
preceding note.
@mudela[fragment,verbatim,center]
\relative c' {
c
}
@end mudela
The pitch after the @code{\relative} contains a notename. To parse
the pitch as a notename, you have to be in note mode, so there must
be a surrounding @code{\notes}@keyindex{notes} keyword (which is not
shown here).
The relative conversion will not affect @code{\transpose} or
@code{\relative} sections in its argument. If you want to use
relative within transposed music, you must place an additional
@code{\relative} inside the @code{\transpose}.
It is strongly recommended to use relative pitch mode: less work,
less error-prone, and more readable.
Chord names are a way to generate simultaneous music expressions that
correspond with traditional chord names. It can only be used in
Chord mode (see section XREF-modes [FIXME]).
@example
@var{tonic}[@var{duration}][@code{-}@var{modifiers}][@code{^}@var{subtractions}][@code{/}@var{inversion}][@code{/+}@var{bass}].
@end example
@var{tonic} should be the tonic note of the chord, and @var{duration}
is the chord duration in the usual notation. There are two kinds of
modifiers. One type is @emph{chord additions}, which are obtained by
listing intervals separated by dots. An interval is written by its
number with an optional `@code{+}' or `@code{-}' to indicate raising or
lowering by half a step. Chord additions has two effects: It adds
the specified interval and all lower odd numbered intervals to the
chord, and it may lower or raise the specified interval. Intervals
must be separated by a dot (`@code{.}').
@quotation
@mudela[fragment,verbatim]
\transpose c'' {
\chords {
c1 c:3- c:7 c:8
c:9 c:9-.5+.7+ c:3-.5- c:4.6.8
}
}
@end mudela
@end quotation
The second type of modifier that may appear after the `@code{:}' is a
named modifier. Named modifiers are listed in the file
@file{chord-modifiers.ly}. The available modifiers are `@code{m}' and
`@code{min}' which lower the 3rd half a step, `@code{aug}@indexcode{aug}' which
raises the 5th, `@code{dim}@indexcode{dim}' which lowers the 5th,
`@code{maj}@indexcode{maj}' which adds a raised 7th, and `@code{sus}@indexcode{sus}'
which replaces the 5th with a 4th.
@quotation
@mudela[fragment,verbatim]
\transpose c'' {
\chords {
c1:m c:min7 c:maj c:aug c:dim c:sus
}
}
@end mudela
@end quotation
Chord subtractions are used to eliminate notes from a chord. The
notes to be subtracted are listed after a `@code{^}' character,
separated by dots.
@mudela[fragment,verbatim,center]
\transpose c'' {
\chords {
c1^3 c:7^5.3 c:8^7
}
}
@end mudela
Chord inversions can be specified by appending `@code{/}@indexcode{/}' and
the name of a single note to a chord. This has the effect of
lowering the specified note by an octave so it becomes the lowest
note in the chord. If the specified note is not in the chord, a
warning will be printed.
@mudela[fragment,verbatim,center]
\transpose c''' {
\chords {
c1 c/e c/g c:7/e
}
}
@end mudela
Bass notes can be added by `@code{/+}@indexcode{/+}' and
the name of a single note to a chord. This has the effect of
adding the specified note to the chord, lowered by an octave,
so it becomes the lowest note in the chord.
@mudela[fragment,verbatim,center]
\transpose c''' {
\chords {
c1 c/+c c/+g c:7/+b
}
}
@end mudela
Throughout these examples, chords have been shifted around the staff
using @code{\transpose}.
You should not combine @code{\relative} with named chords.
@cindex tuplets
Tuplets are made out of a music expression by multiplying their
duration with a fraction.
@example
\times@keyindex{times} @var{fraction} @var{musicexpr}
@end example
The duration of @var{musicexpr} will be multiplied by the fraction.
In print, the fraction's denominator will be printed over the notes,
optionally with a bracket. The most common tuplet is the triplet in
which 3 notes have the length of 2, so the notes are 2/3 of
their written length:
@mudela[fragment,verbatim,center]
g'4 \times 2/3 {c'4 c' c'} d'4 d'4
@end mudela
@cindex grace notes
@example
\grace@keyindex{grace} @var{musicexpr}
@end example
A grace note expression has duration 0; the next real note is
assumed to be the main note.
You cannot have the grace note after the main note, in terms of
duration, and main notes, but you can typeset the grace notes to the
right of the main note using the property
@code{graceAlignPosition}@indexcode{graceAlignPosition}.
When grace music is interpreted, a score-within-a-score is set up:
@var{musicexpr} has its own time bookkeeping, and you could (for
example) have a separate time signature within grace notes. While in
this score-within-a-score, you can create notes, beams, slurs, etc.
Unbeamed eighth notes and shorter by default have a slash through the
stem. This behavior can be controlled with the
@code{stemStyle}@indexcode{stemStyle} property.
@quotation
@mudela[fragment,verbatim]
\relative c'' {
\grace c8 c4 \grace { [c16 c16] } c4
\grace { \property Grace.stemStyle = "" c16 } c4
}
@end mudela
@end quotation
At present, nesting @code{\grace}@keyindex{grace} notes, e.g.
@example
@code{\grace @{ \grace c32 c16 @} c4}
@end example
may result in run-time errors of LilyPond. Since the meaning of such
a construct is unclear, we don't consider this a loss. Similarly,
juxtaposing two @code{\grace} sections is syntactically valid, but
makes no sense and may cause runtime errors.
Ending a staff or score with grace notes may also generate a run-time
error, since there will be no main note to attach the grace notes to.
@cindex repeats
@node Repeats, , , Reference Manual
In order to specify repeats, use the @code{\repeat}@keyindex{repeat}
keyword. Since repeats look and sound differently when played or
printed, there are a few different variants of repeats.
@table @samp
@item unfolded
Repeated music is fully written (played) out. Useful for MIDI
output.
@item volta
This is the normal notation: Repeats are not written out, but
alternative endings (voltas) are printed, left to right.
@item folded
Alternative endings are written stacked, which is useful for
lyrics.
@end table
The syntax for repeats is
@example
\repeat @var{variant} @var{repeatcount} @var{repeatbody}
@end example
If you have alternative endings, you may add
@example
\alternative@keyindex{alternative}
@code{@{} @var{alternative1}
@var{alternative2}
@var{alternative3} @dots{} @code{@}}
@end example
where each @var{alternative} is a Music expression.
Normal notation repeats are used like this:
@quotation
@mudela[fragment,verbatim]
c'1
\repeat volta 2 { c'4 d' e' f' }
\repeat volta 2 { f' e' d' c' }
@end mudela
@end quotation
With alternative endings:
@quotation
@mudela[fragment,verbatim]
c'1
\repeat volta 2 {c'4 d' e' f'}
\alternative { {d'2 d'} {f' f} }
@end mudela
@end quotation
Folded repeats look like this:@footnote{Folded repeats offer little
more over simultaneous music. However, it is to be expected that
more functionality -- especially for the MIDI backend -- will be
implemented.}
@quotation
@mudela[fragment,verbatim]
c'1
\repeat fold 2 {c'4 d' e' f'}
\alternative { {d'2 d'} {f' f} }
@end mudela
@end quotation
@quotation
@mudela[fragment,verbatim]
\context Staff {
\relative c' {
\partial 4;
\repeat volta 2 { e | c2 d2 | e2 f2 | }
\alternative { { g4 g g } { a | a a a a | b1 } }
}
}
@end mudela
@end quotation
If you don't give enough alternatives for all of the repeats, then
the first alternative is assumed to be repeated often enough to equal
the specified number of repeats.
@quotation
@mudela[fragment,verbatim]
\context Staff {
\relative c' {
\repeat volta 3 { \partial 4; e | c2 d2 | e2 f2 | }
\alternative { { g4 g g }
{\partial 1; e4 e e }
{\partial 1; a a a a | b1 } }
}
}
@end mudela
@end quotation
It is possible to nest @code{\repeat}. This is not entirely
supported: the notes will come be in the right places, but the repeat
bars will not.
@cindex transposition of pitches
@node transpose, , , Reference Manual
A music expression can be transposed with
@code{\transpose}@keyindex{transpose}. The syntax is
@example
\transpose @var{pitch} @var{musicexpr}
@end example
This means that middle C in @var{musicexpr} is transposed to
@var{pitch}.
@code{\transpose} distinguishes between enharmonic pitches: both
@code{\transpose cis'} or @code{\transpose des'} will transpose up half
a tone. The first version will print sharps and the second version
will print flats.
@quotation
@mudela[fragment,verbatim]
\context Staff {
\clef "F";
{ \key e; c d e f }
\clef "G";
\transpose des'' { \key e; c d e f }
\transpose cis'' { \key e; c d e f }
}
@end mudela
@end quotation
If you want to use both @code{\transpose} and @code{\relative}, then
you must use @code{\transpose} first. @code{\relative} will have no
effect music that appears inside a @code{\transpose}.
@cindex automatic lyric durations
If you have lyrics that are set to a melody, you can import the
rhythm of that melody into the lyrics using @code{\addlyrics}.
@keyindex{addlyrics} The syntax for this is
@example
\addlyrics @var{musicexpr1 musicexpr2}
@end example
This means that both @var{musicexpr1} and @var{musicexpr2} are
interpreted, but that every non-command atomic music expression
(``every syllable'') in @var{musicexpr2} is interpreted using timing
of @var{musicexpr1}.
If the property @code{automaticMelismata}@indexcode{automaticMelismata} is set in the
context of @var{musicexpr1}, no lyrics will be put on slurred or tied
notes.
@quotation
@mudela[verbatim,fragment]
\addlyrics
\transpose c'' {
\property Voice.automaticMelismata = "1"
c8 () cis d8. e16 f2
}
\context Lyrics \lyrics {
do4 re mi fa }
@end mudela
@end quotation
You should use a single rhythm melody, and single rhythm lyrics (a
constant duration is the obvious choice). If you do not, you will get
undesired effects when using multiple stanzas:
@quotation
@mudela[verbatim,fragment]
\addlyrics
\transpose c'' {
c8 () cis d8. e16 f2
}
\context Lyrics \lyrics
< { do4 re mi fa }
{ do8 re mi fa } >
@end mudela
@end quotation
It is valid (but probably not very useful) to use notes instead of
lyrics for @var{musicexpr2}.
@node Ambiguities, , , Reference Manual
@section Ambiguities
@cindex ambiguities
The grammar contains a number of ambiguities.@footnote{The authors
hope to resolve them at a later time.}
@itemize @bullet
@item The assignment
@example
foo = bar
@end example
can be interpreted as making a string identifier @code{\foo}
containing @code{"bar"}, or a music identifier @code{\foo}
containing the syllable `bar'.
@item The assignment
@example
foo = -6
@end example
can be interpreted as making an integer identifier
containing -6, or a Request identifier containing the
fingering `6' (with neutral direction).
@item If you do a nested repeat like
@quotation
@example
\repeat @dots{}
\repeat @dots{}
\alternative
@end example
@end quotation
then it is ambiguous to which @code{\repeat} the
@code{\alternative} belongs. This is the classic if-then-else
dilemma. It may be solved by using braces.
@item (an as yet unidentified ambiguity :-)
@end itemize
@node Notation conversion specifics, , , Reference Manual
@section Notation conversion specifics
@cindex automatic beam generation
@node autobeam, , , Reference Manual
By default, LilyPond will generate beams automatically. This feature
can be disabled by setting the @code{Voice.noAutoBeaming}@indexcode{Voice.noAutoBeaming}
property to 1. It can be overridden for specific cases by
specifying explicit beams as described in
section XREF-manualbeam [FIXME].
A large number of Voice properties are used to decide how to generate
beams. Their default values appear in @file{auto-beam-settings.ly}.
In general, beams can begin anywhere, but their ending location is
significant. Beams can end on a beat, or at durations specified by
the @code{Voice.beamAutoEnd}@indexcode{Voice.beamAutoEnd} property. To end beams every
quarter note, for example, you could set
@code{Voice.beamAutoEnd}@indexcode{Voice.beamAutoEnd} equal to `@code{"1/4"}'. To end beams
at every three eighth notes you would set it to `@code{"3/8"}'. The
same syntax can be used to specify beam starting points using
@code{Voice.beamAutoBegin}@indexcode{Voice.beamAutoBegin}.
To allow different settings for different time signatures, these
property names can start with `@code{time}@var{N}@code{_}@var{M}' to
restrict the definition to `@var{N}@code{/}@var{M}' time. For example,
to specify beams ending only for 6/8 time you would use the
property @code{Voice.time6_8beamAutoEnd}. To allow different endings
for notes of different durations, the duration can be tacked onto the
end of the property. To specify beam endings for beams that contain
32nd notes, you would use @code{Voice.beamAutoEnd_32}.
@cindex chord names
@cindex chords
@cindex printing!chord names
For displaying printed chord names, use the @code{ChordNames}@indexcode{ChordNames}
and @code{ChordNameVoice}@indexcode{ChordNameVoice} contexts. The chords may be entered
either using the notation described above, or directly using
simultaneous music.
@quotation
@mudela[fragment,verbatim]
<
\context ChordNames {
\chords{a b c} \notes{ }
}
\context Staff \notes {
a b c' d' e'
}
>
@end mudela
@end quotation
LilyPond examines chords specified as lists of notes to determine a
name to give the chord. By default, LilyPond will not try to
identify chord inversions:
@mudela[fragment,verbatim,center]
<
\context ChordNameVoice \notes {
}
\context Thread \notes {
}
>
@end mudela
If you want inversions to be recognized, you must set the property
@code{ChordNames.chordInversion}@indexcode{ChordNames.chordInversion}:
@mudela[fragment,verbatim,center]
<
\property Score.chordInversion = 1
\context ChordNameVoice \notes {
}
\context Thread \notes {
}
>
@end mudela
@cindex lyrics
@cindex printing!lyrics
@node lyricprint, , , Reference Manual
Lyric syllables must be interpreted within a @code{Lyrics} context
@cindex context!Lyrics
for printing them.
Here is a full example:
@quotation
@mudela[verbatim]
\score {
<
\notes \transpose c'' {
c d e c | c d e c |
e f g2 | e4 f g2 \bar "|.";
}
\context Lyrics \lyrics {
Va-4 der Ja- cob Va- der Ja- cob
Slaapt gij nog?2 Slaapt4 gij nog?2
}
>
}
@end mudela
@end quotation
You may want a continuous line after the syllables to show melismata.
To achieve this effect, add a `@code{__}' lyric as a separate word
after the lyric to be extended. This will create an extender, a line
that extends over the entire duration of the lyric. This line will
run all the way to the start of the next lyric, so you may want to
shorten it by using a blank lyric (using `@code{_}').
@quotation
@mudela[verbatim]
\score {
<
\notes \relative c'' {
a4 () b () c () d | c () d () b () a | c () d () b () a
}
\context Lyrics \lyrics {
foo1 __ | bar2. __ _4 | baz1 __
}
>
}
@end mudela
@end quotation
If you want to have hyphens centered between syllables (rather than
attached to the end of the first syllable) you can use the special
`@code{-}@code{-}' lyric as a separate word between syllables. This
will result in a hyphen which length varies depending on the space
between syllables, and which will be centered between the syllables.
For example:
@quotation
@mudela[verbatim]
\score {
<
\notes \transpose c'' {
c d e c | c d e c |
e f g2 | e4 f g2 \bar "|.";
}
\context Lyrics \lyrics {
Va4 -- der Ja -- cob | Va -- der Ja -- cob |
Slaapt gij nog?2 | Slaapt4 gij nog?2
}
>
}
@end mudela
@end quotation
@node Notation Contexts, , , Reference Manual
@section Notation Contexts
@cindex notation contexts
Notation contexts are objects that only exist during a run of
LilyPond. During the interpretation phase of LilyPond, the Music
expression contained in a @code{\score} block is interpreted in time
order. This is the order in which humans read, play, and write
music.
A context is an object that holds the reading state of the
expression; it contains information like
@itemize @bullet
@item What notes are playing at this point?
@item What symbols will be printed at this point?
@item In what style will they printed?
@item What is the current key signature, time signature, point within
the measure, etc.?
@end itemize
Contexts are grouped hierarchically: A @code{Voice} context is
contained in a @code{Staff} context (because a staff can contain
multiple voices at any point), a @code{Staff} context is contained in
a @code{Score}, @code{StaffGroup}, or @code{ChoirStaff} context (because
these can all contain multiple staffs).
Contexts associated with sheet music output are called @emph{notation
contexts}, those for sound output are called playing contexts.
Contexts are created either manually or automatically. Initially,
the top level music expression is interpreted by the top level
context (the @code{Score} context). When a atomic music expression
(i.e. a note, a rest, @code{\bar}, or @code{\time} commands), a nested
set of contexts is created that can process these atomic expressions,
as in this example:
@example
@example
\score @{ \notes < c4 > @}
@end example
@end example
The sequential music, `@code{@{ c4 @}}' is interpreted by @code{Score}
context. When the note `@code{c4}' itself is interpreted, a set of
contexts is needed that will accept notes. The default for this is a
@code{Voice} context, contained in a @code{Staff} context. Creation of
these contexts results in the staff being printed.
@cindex context
You can also create contexts manually, and you probably have to do so
if you want to typeset complicated multiple part material. If a
`@code{\context} @var{name} @var{musicexpr}' expression is encountered
during the interpretation phase, the @var{musicexpr} argument will be
interpreted with a context of type @var{name}. If you specify a name,
the specific context with that name is searched.
If a context of the specified type and name can not be found, a new
one is created. For example,
@quotation
@mudela[verbatim]
\score {
\notes \relative c'' {
c4 f
}
}
@end mudela
@end quotation
In this example, the @code{c} and @code{d} are printed on the
default staff. For the @code{e}, a context Staff called
`@code{another}' is specified; since that does not exist, a new
context is created. Within @code{another}, a (default) Voice context
is created for the @code{e4}. When all music referring to a
context is finished, the context is ended as well. So after the
third quarter, @code{another} is removed.
Almost all music expressions inherit their interpretation context
from their parent. In other words, suppose that the syntax for a
music expression is
@example
\keyword @var{musicexpr1} @var{musicexpr2} @dots{}
@end example
When the interpretation of this music expression starts, the context
for @var{musicexpr1}, @var{musicexpr2}, etc. is that of the total
expression.
Lastly, you may wonder, why this:
@quotation
@example
\score @{
\notes \relative c'' @{
c4 d4 e4
@}
@}
@end example
@end quotation
doesn't result in this:
@mudela[]
\score {
\notes \relative c'' {
}
}
@end mudela
For the @code{c4}, a default @code{Staff} (with a contained
@code{Voice}) context is created. After the @code{c4} ends, no
music refers to this default staff, so it would be ended, with the
result shown. To prevent this inconvenient behavior, the context to
which the sequential music refers is adjusted during the
interpretation. So after the @code{c4} ends, the context of the
sequential music is also the default @code{Voice} context.
The @code{d4} gets interpreted in the same context
as @code{c4}.
These are the contexts supplied with the package. They are defined
in the initialization file @file{ly/engraver.ly}.
@table @samp
@item @code{Grace}@indexcode{Grace}
The context for handling grace notes. It is instantiated
automatically when you use @code{\grace}. Basically, it is an
`embedded' miniature of the Score context. Since this context
needs special interaction with the rest of LilyPond, you should
not explicitly instantiate it.
@item @code{LyricVoice}@indexcode{LyricVoice}
Corresponds to a voice with lyrics. Handles the printing of a
single line of lyrics.
@item @code{Thread}@indexcode{Thread}
Handles note heads, and is contained in the Voice context. You
have to instantiate this explicitly if you want to adjust the
style of individual note heads.
@item @code{Voice}@indexcode{Voice}
Corresponds to a voice on a staff. This context handles the
conversion of dynamic signs, stems, beams, super- and subscripts,
slurs, ties, and rests.
You have to instantiate this explicitly if you want to have
multiple voices on the same staff.
@item @code{ChordNamesVoice}@indexcode{ChordNamesVoice}
A voice with chord names. Handles printing of a line of chord
names.
@item @code{ChordNames}@indexcode{ChordNames}
Typesets chord names. Can contain @code{ChordNamesVoice}
contexts.
@item @code{Lyrics}@indexcode{Lyrics}
Typesets lyrics. It can contain @code{LyricVoice} contexts.
@item @code{Staff}@indexcode{Staff}
Handles clefs, bar lines, keys, accidentals. It can contain
@code{Voice} contexts.
@item @code{RhythmicStaff}@indexcode{RhythmicStaff}
A context like @code{Staff} but for printing rhythms. Pitches are
ignored; the notes are printed on one line. It can contain
@code{Voice} contexts.
@item @code{GrandStaff}@indexcode{GrandStaff}
Contains @code{Staff} or @code{RhythmicStaff} contexts. It adds a
brace on the left side, grouping the staffs together. The bar
lines of the contained staffs are connected vertically. It can
contain @code{Staff} contexts.
@item @code{PianoStaff}@indexcode{PianoStaff}
Just like @code{GrandStaff} but with @code{minVerticalAlign} set
equal to @code{maxVerticalAlign} so that interstaff beaming and
slurring can be used.
@item @code{StaffGroup}@indexcode{StaffGroup}
Contains @code{Staff} or @code{RhythmicStaff} contexts. Adds a
bracket on the left side, grouping the staffs together. The bar
lines of the contained staffs are connected vertically. It can
contain @code{Staff}, @code{RhythmicStaff}, @code{GrandStaff}, or
@code{Lyrics} contexts.
@item @code{ChoirStaff}@indexcode{ChoirStaff}
Identical to @code{StaffGroup} except that the contained staffs
are not connected vertically.
@item @code{Score}@indexcode{Score}
This is the top level notation context. No other context can
contain a @code{Score} context. This context handles the
administration of time signatures. It also makes sure that items
such as clefs, time signatures, and key-signatures are aligned
across staffs. It can contain @code{Lyrics}, @code{Staff},
@code{RhythmicStaff}, @code{GrandStaff}, @code{StaffGroup}, and
@code{ChoirStaff} contexts.
You cannot explicitly instantiate a Score context (since it is
not contained in any other context). It is instantiated
automatically when an output definition (a @code{\score} or
@code{\paper} block) is processed.
@end table
Properties that are set in one context are inherited by all of the
contained contexts. This means that a property valid for the
@code{Voice} context can be set in the @code{Score} context (for
example) and thus take effect in all @code{Voice} contexts.
Properties can be preset within the @code{\translator} block
corresponding to the appropriate context. In this case, the syntax
is
@example
@var{propname} @code{=} @var{value}
@end example
This assignment happens before interpretation starts, so a
@code{\property} expression will override any predefined settings.
The @code{\property} expression will create any property you specify.
There is no guarantee that a property will be used. So if you spell
a property name wrong, there will be no error message.
The property settings are used during the interpretation phase. They
are read by the LilyPond modules where interpretation contexts are
built of. These modules are called @emph{translators}. Translators for
notation are called @emph{engravers}, and translators for sound are
called @emph{performers}.
The precise result of a property is determined by the implementation
of the translator that reads them. Therefore, the result of a
property can vary, since it is implementation and configuration
dependent.
In order to fully find out what properties are used, you must
currently search the source code for calls to @code{get_property}.
The rest of the section is devoted to an (incomplete) overview of
available properties.
@mbinclude properties.itely
@node Notation output definitions, , , Reference Manual
@section Notation output definitions
@cindex output
@cindex notation output
@cindex output definition
@node paper, , , Reference Manual
The most important output definition is the @code{\paper} block, for
music notation. The syntax is
@example
@code{\paper @{} [@var{paperidentifier}] @var{items} @code{@}}
@end example
where each of the items is one of
@itemize @bullet
@item An assignment. The assignment must be terminated by a
semicolon. See section XREF-papervars [FIXME] for information on
paper variables.
@item A context definition. See section XREF-contextdefs [FIXME] for
more information on context definitions.
@item A margin shape declaration. The syntax is
@example
\shape @var{indent1}@code{,} @var{width1}@code{,}
@var{indent2}@code{,} @var{width2} @dots{} @code{;}
@end example
@keyindex{shape}
Each pair of @var{indent} and @var{width} values is a dimension
specifying how far to indent and how wide to make the line.
The indentation and width of successive lines are specified by
the successive pairs of dimensions. The last pair of
dimensions will define the characeristics of all lines beyond
those explicitly specified.
@item A font declaration. Its syntax is
@example
@var{fontsize} @code{=} \font@keyindex{font} @var{fontname}
@end example
@var{fontsize} is an integer describing the font to be used.
0 is the default font. @var{fontname} is the basename of
a font (usually a member of the Feta family).
@end itemize
@cindex changing font size and paper size
The Feta font provides musical symbols at six different sizes. These
fonts are 11 point, 13 point, 16 point, 20 point,
23 point, and 26 point. The point size of a font is the
height of the five lines in a staff when displayed in the font.
Definitions for these sizes are the files @file{paperSZ.ly}, where
@code{SZ} is one of 11, 13, 16, 20, 23 and 26. If you include
any of these files, the identifiers @code{paper_eleven},
@code{paper_thirteen}, @code{paper_sixteen}, @code{paper_twenty},
@code{paper_twentythree}, and @code{paper_twentysix} are defined
respectively. The default @code{\paper} block is also set.
To change the paper size, you must first set the
@code{papersize}@indexcode{papersize} variable at top level. Set it to the strings
@code{a4}, @code{letter}, or @code{legal}. After this specification,
you must set the font as described above. If you want the default
font, then use the 20 point font. The new paper size will not
take effect if the font is not loaded and selected afterwards. Paper
size selection works by loading a file named after the paper size you
select.
@cindex paper variables
@node Paper variables, , , Reference Manual
There is a large number of paper variables that are used to control
details of the layout. These variables control the defaults for the
entire score. Usually, they do not have to be changed; they are by
default set to values that depend on the font size in use. The
values are used by the graphic objects while formatting the score;
they are therefore implementation dependent. Most variables are
accompanied by documentation in the initalization file
@file{params.ly} or @file{paperSZ.ly}, where @code{SZ} is the staff
height in points.
Nevertheless, here are some variables you may want to use or change:
@table @samp
@item @code{indent}@indexcode{indent}
The indentation of the first line of music.
@item @code{interline}@indexcode{interline}
The distance between two staff lines, calculated from the center
of the lines. You should use either this or @code{rulethickness}
as a unit for distances you modify.
@item @code{linewidth}@indexcode{linewidth}
Sets the width of the lines. If set to -1.0, a single
unjustified line is produced.
@item @code{output}@indexcode{output}
Specifies an alternate name for the the output @file{s}.
A @file{.tex}, @file{.midi} or @file{.ps} extension will be
added to the string you specify.
@item @code{rulethickness}@indexcode{rulethickness}
Determines the thickness of staff and bar lines.
@end table
@node contextdefs, , , Reference Manual
@cindex context definition
A notation contexts is defined by the following information
@enumerate i
@item A name.
@item The LilyPond modules that do the actual conversion of music to
notation. Each module is a so-called
@emph{engraver}
@cindex engraver
.
@item How these modules should cooperate, i.e. which ``cooperation
module'' should be used. This cooperation module is a special
type of engraver.
@item What other contexts the context can contain,
@item What properties are defined.
@end enumerate
A context definition has this syntax:
@example
\translator @code{@{}
@var{translatorinit} @var{translatormodifierlist}
@code{@}}
@end example
@var{translatorinit} can be an identifier or of the form
@example
\type @var{typename} @code{;}
@end example
@var{typename} is one of
@table @samp
@item @code{Engraver_group_engraver}@indexcode{Engraver_group_engraver}
The standard cooperation engraver.
@item @code{Score_engraver}@indexcode{Score_engraver}
This is cooperation module that should be in the top level context.
@item @code{Grace_engraver_group}@indexcode{Grace_engraver_group}
This is a special cooperation module (resembling
@code{Score_engraver}) that is used to created an embedded
`miniscore'.
@end table
@var{translatormodifierlist} is a list of items where each item is
one of
@itemize @bullet
@item @code{\consists} @var{engravername} @code{;}
Add @var{engravername} to the list of modules in this context.
Section XREF-engravers [FIXME] contains an overview of the engravers
available. The order of engravers added with @code{\consists} is
significant.
@item @code{\consistsend} @var{engravername} @code{;}
Analogous to @code{\consists}, but makes sure that
@var{engravername} is always added to the end of the list of
engravers.
Some engraver types need to be at the end of the list; this
insures they are put there, and stay there, if a user adds or
removes engravers. This command is usually not needed for
end-users.
@item @code{\accepts} @var{contextname} @code{;}
Add @var{contextname} to the list of context this context can
contain. The first listed context the context to create by
default.
@item @code{\remove} @var{engravername} @code{;}
Remove a previously added (with @code{\consists}) engraver.
@item @code{\name} @var{contextname} @code{;}
This sets name of the context, e.g. @code{Staff}, @code{Voice}. If
the name is not specified, the translator won't do anything.
@item @var{propname} @code{=} @var{value} @code{;}
A property assignment. It is allowed to use reals for
@var{value}.
@end itemize
In the @code{\paper} block, it is also possible to define translator
identifiers. Like other block identifiers, the identifier can only
be used as the very first item of a translator. In order to define
such an identifier outside of @code{\score}, you must do
@quotation
@example
\paper @{
foo = \translator @{ @dots{} @}
@}
\score @{
\notes @{
@dots{}
@}
\paper @{
\translator @{ \foo @dots{} @}
@}
@}
@end example
@end quotation
@cindex paper types, engravers, and pre-defined translators
Some pre-defined identifiers can simplify modification of
translators. The pre-defined identifiers are:
@table @samp
@item @code{StaffContext}@indexcode{StaffContext}
Default Staff context.
@item @code{RhythmicStaffContext}@indexcode{RhythmicStaffContext}
Default RhythmicStaff context.
@item @code{VoiceContext}@indexcode{VoiceContext}
Default Voice context.
@item @code{ScoreContext}@indexcode{ScoreContext}
Default Score context.
@item @code{ScoreWithNumbers}@indexcode{ScoreWithNumbers}
Score context with numbering at the Score level.
@item @code{BarNumberingStaffContext}@indexcode{BarNumberingStaffContext}
Staff context with numbering at the Staff level.
@item @code{HaraKiriStaffContext}@indexcode{HaraKiriStaffContext}
Staff context that does not print if it only contains rests.
Useful for orchestral scores.@footnote{Harakiri, also called
Seppuku, is the ritual suicide of the Samourai.}
@item @code{OrchestralPartStaffContext}@indexcode{OrchestralPartStaffContext}
@item @code{OrchestralScoreContext}@indexcode{OrchestralScoreContext}
@end table
Using these pre-defined values, you can remove or add items to the
translator:
@quotation
@example
\paper @{
\translator @{
\StaffContext
\remove Some_engraver;
\consists Different_engraver;
@}
@}
@end example
@end quotation
@node engravers, , , Reference Manual
The engravers for paper output are:
[incomplete, FIXME]
@table @samp
@item @code{Bar_engraver}@indexcode{Bar_engraver}
Engraves bar lines. Normally in @code{Staff} and
@code{RhythmicStaff}.
@item @code{Bar_number_engraver}@indexcode{Bar_number_engraver}
Engrave bar numbers. These numbers appear at the start of each
line. Not normally in any translator. Can be added to
@code{Score} for score-wide numbering or to @code{Staff} for
numbering on each staff.
@item @code{Beam_engraver}@indexcode{Beam_engraver}
Handles beam requests by engraving beams. Normally appears in
the @code{Voice} translator. If omitted, then notes will be
printed with flags instead of beams.
@item @code{Beam_req_swallow_translator}
@indexcode{Beam_req_swallow_translator}
Swallows beam requests. In @code{LyricVoice}.
@item @code{Chord_name_engraver}@indexcode{Chord_name_engraver}
Engraves chord names. Normally in @code{ChordNameVoice} .
@item @code{Chord_tremolo_engraver}@indexcode{Chord_tremolo_engraver}
@item @code{Clef_engraver}@indexcode{Clef_engraver}
Engraves the clef symbol. Normally in @code{Staff}.
@item @code{Collision_engraver}@indexcode{Collision_engraver}
@item @code{Dot_column_engraver}@indexcode{Dot_column_engraver}
Engraves dots on dotted notes shifted to the right of the note.
Normally in @code{Voice}. If omitted, then dots appear on top of
the notes.
@item @code{Dynamic_engraver}@indexcode{Dynamic_engraver}
Engraves dynamics symbols. Normally in @code{Voice}.
@item @code{Font_size_engraver}@indexcode{Font_size_engraver}
@item @code{Key_engraver}@indexcode{Key_engraver}
Engraves the key signature. Normally in @code{Staff}.
@item @code{Local_key_engraver}@indexcode{Local_key_engraver}
@item @code{Lyric_engraver}@indexcode{Lyric_engraver}
Engraves lyrics. Normally in @code{LyricVoice}.
@item @code{Multi_measure_rest_engraver}
@indexcode{Multi_measure_rest_engraver}
Engraves multi-measure rests that are produced with @code{R}.
Normally in @code{Voice}.
@item @code{Piano_bar_engraver}@indexcode{Piano_bar_engraver}
@item @code{Pitch_squash_engraver}@indexcode{Pitch_squash_engraver}
Treat all pitches as middle C. Used in @code{RhythmicStaff}.
Note that the notes move, but the locations of accidentals stay
the same.
@item @code{Priority_horizontal_align_engraver}
@indexcode{Priority_horizontal_align_engraver}
@item @code{Repeat_engraver}@indexcode{Repeat_engraver}
Handles repeats? In @code{Staff} and @code{RhythmicStaff}.
@item @code{Rest_collision_engraver}@indexcode{Rest_collision_engraver}
Handles collisions of rests. In @code{Staff}.
@item @code{Rest_engraver}@indexcode{Rest_engraver}
Engraves rests. Normally in @code{Voice}.
@item @code{Rhythmic_column_engraver}@indexcode{Rhythmic_column_engraver}
@item @code{Score_priority_engraver}@indexcode{Score_priority_engraver}
@item @code{Script_engraver}@indexcode{Script_engraver}
Handles note ornaments generated by @code{\script}. Normally in
@code{Voice}.
@item @code{Separating_line_group_engraver}
@indexcode{Separating_line_group_engraver}
@item @code{Skip_req_swallow_translator}
@indexcode{Skip_req_swallow_translator}
@item @code{Slur_engraver}@indexcode{Slur_engraver}
Engraves slurs. Normally in @code{Voice}.
@item @code{Span_bar_engraver}@indexcode{Span_bar_engraver}
Engraves lines across multiple staffs. Normally in
@code{Staffgroup} and @code{GrandStaff}. Removing this from
@code{StaffGroup} gives the definition of @code{ChoirStaff}.
@item @code{Span_score_bar_engraver}@indexcode{Span_score_bar_engraver}
@item @code{Staff_group_bar_engraver}@indexcode{Staff_group_bar_engraver}
@item @code{Staff_margin_engraver}@indexcode{Staff_margin_engraver}
Prints the name of the instrument (specified by
@code{Staff.instrument} and @code{Staff.instr}) at the left of the
staff.
@item @code{Staff_sym_engraver}@indexcode{Staff_sym_engraver}
@item @code{Stem_engraver}@indexcode{Stem_engraver}
Engraves stems. Normally in @code{Voice}.
@item @code{Ties_engraver}@indexcode{Ties_engraver}
Engraves ties. Normally in @code{Voice}.
@item @code{Time_signature_engraver}@indexcode{Time_signature_engraver}
Engraves the time signature. Normally in @code{Staff} and
@code{RhythmicStaff}.
@item @code{Timing_engraver}@indexcode{Timing_engraver}
Responsible for synchronizing timing information from staffs.
Normally in @code{Score}. In order to create polyrhythmic music,
this engraver should be removed from @code{Score} and placed in
@code{Staff}.
@item @code{Tuplet_engraver}@indexcode{Tuplet_engraver}
Engraves tuplet brackets? In @code{Staff}.
@item @code{Vertical_align_engraver}@indexcode{Vertical_align_engraver}
@end table
@node Sound output, , , Reference Manual
@section Sound output
The MIDI block is analogous to the paper block, but it is simpler.
The @code{\midi} block can contain:
@cindex MIDI block
@itemize @bullet
@item a @code{\tempo} definition
@item context definitions
@end itemize
Assignments in the @code{\midi} block are not allowed.
@cindex context definition
Context definitions follow precisely the same syntax as within the
\paper block. Translation modules for sound are called performers.
The contexts for MIDI output are defined in @file{ly/performer.ly}.
@cindex MIDI instrument names
@node midilist, , , Reference Manual
The MIDI instrument name is set by the
@code{Staff.midiInstrument}@indexcode{Staff.midiInstrument} property or,
if that property is not set, the
@code{Staff.instrument}@indexcode{Staff.instrument} property. The
instrument name should be chosen from the following list. If the
selected string does not exactly match, then LilyPond uses the default
piano.
@quotation
@example
"acoustic grand" "contrabass" "lead 7 (fifths)"
"bright acoustic" "tremolo strings" "lead 8 (bass+lead)"
"electric grand" "pizzicato strings" "pad 1 (new age)"
"honky-tonk" "orchestral strings" "pad 2 (warm)"
"electric piano 1" "timpani" "pad 3 (polysynth)"
"electric piano 2" "string ensemble 1" "pad 4 (choir)"
"harpsichord" "string ensemble 2" "pad 5 (bowed)"
"clav" "synthstrings 1" "pad 6 (metallic)"
"celesta" "synthstrings 2" "pad 7 (halo)"
"glockenspiel" "choir aahs" "pad 8 (sweep)"
"music box" "voice oohs" "fx 1 (rain)"
"vibraphone" "synth voice" "fx 2 (soundtrack)"
"marimba" "orchestra hit" "fx 3 (crystal)"
"xylophone" "trumpet" "fx 4 (atmosphere)"
"tubular bells" "trombone" "fx 5 (brightness)"
"dulcimer" "tuba" "fx 6 (goblins)"
"drawbar organ" "muted trumpet" "fx 7 (echoes)"
"percussive organ" "french horn" "fx 8 (sci-fi)"
"rock organ" "brass section" "sitar"
"church organ" "synthbrass 1" "banjo"
"reed organ" "synthbrass 2" "shamisen"
"accordion" "soprano sax" "koto"
"harmonica" "alto sax" "kalimba"
"concertina" "tenor sax" "bagpipe"
"acoustic guitar (nylon)" "baritone sax" "fiddle"
"acoustic guitar (steel)" "oboe" "shanai"
"electric guitar (jazz)" "english horn" "tinkle bell"
"electric guitar (clean)" "bassoon" "agogo"
"electric guitar (muted)" "clarinet" "steel drums"
"overdriven guitar" "piccolo" "woodblock"
"distorted guitar" "flute" "taiko drum"
"guitar harmonics" "recorder" "melodic tom"
"acoustic bass" "pan flute" "synth drum"
"electric bass (finger)" "blown bottle" "reverse cymbal"
"electric bass (pick)" "skakuhachi" "guitar fret noise"
"fretless bass" "whistle" "breath noise"
"slap bass 1" "ocarina" "seashore"
"slap bass 2" "lead 1 (square)" "bird tweet"
"synth bass 1" "lead 2 (sawtooth)" "telephone ring"
"synth bass 2" "lead 3 (calliope)" "helicopter"
"violin" "lead 4 (chiff)" "applause"
"viola" "lead 5 (charang)" "gunshot"
"cello" "lead 6 (voice)"
@end example
@end quotation
@cindex MIDI types and performers
The types available for MIDI translators are:
@table @samp
@item @code{Performer_group_performer}@indexcode{Performer_group_performer}
@item @code{Score_performer}@indexcode{Score_performer}
@item @code{Staff_performer}@indexcode{Staff_performer}
@end table
The performers for MIDI translators are:
@table @samp
@item @code{Key_performer}@indexcode{Key_performer}
@item @code{Time_signature_performer}@indexcode{Time_signature_performer}
@item @code{Note_performer}@indexcode{Note_performer}
@item @code{Lyric_performer}@indexcode{Lyric_performer}
@item @code{Swallow_performer}@indexcode{Swallow_performer}
@end table
@node Pre-defined Identifiers, , , Reference Manual
@section Pre-defined Identifiers
@cindex pre-defined identifiers
Various identifiers are defined in the initialization files to
provide shorthands for some settings. Most of them are in
@file{ly/declarations.ly}.
@table @samp
@item @code{\break}@keyindex{break}
Force a line break in music by using a large argument for the
keyword @code{\penalty}.
@item @code{\center}@keyindex{center}
Used for setting direction properties. Equals 0.
@item @code{\down}@keyindex{down}
Used for setting direction setting properties. Is equal
to -1.
@item @code{\free}@keyindex{free}
Used for setting direction setting properties. Is equal
to 0.
@item @code{\left}@keyindex{left}
Used for setting text alignment property. Is equal to -1.
@item @code{\nobreak}@keyindex{nobreak}
Prevent a line break in music by using a large negative argument
for the keyword @code{\penalty}.
@item @code{\none}@keyindex{none}
Used for setting @code{Score.beamslopedamping} and
@code{Score.beamquantisation} properties. Is equal to 0.
@item @code{\normal}@keyindex{normal}
Used for setting @code{Score.beamslopedamping} and
@code{Score.beamquantisation} properties. Is equal to 1.
@item @code{\normalkey}@keyindex{normalkey}
Select normal key signatures where each octave has the same key
signature. This sets the @code{Staff.keyoctaviation} property.
@item @code{\right}@keyindex{right}
Used for setting text alignment property. Is set to 1.
@item @code{\shiftoff}@keyindex{shiftoff}
Disable horizontal shifting of note heads that collide. Sets the
@code{Voice.horizontalNoteShift} property.
@item @code{\shifton}@keyindex{shifton}
Enable note heads that collide with other note heads to be
shifted horiztonally. Sets the @code{Voice.horizontalNoteShift}
property.
@item @code{\slurboth}@keyindex{slurboth}
Allow slurs to be above or below notes. This sets the
@code{Voice.slurVerticalDirection} property.
@item @code{\slurdown}@keyindex{slurdown}
Force slurs to be below notes. This sets the
@code{Voice.slurVerticalDirection} property.
@item @code{\slurup}@keyindex{slurup}
Force slurs to be above notes. This sets the
@code{Voice.slurVerticalDirection} property.
@item @code{\specialkey}@keyindex{specialkey}
Allow key signatures do differ in different octaves. This sets
the @code{Staff.keyoctaviation} property.
@item @code{\stemboth}@keyindex{stemboth}
Allow stems, beams, and slurs to point either upwards or
downwards, decided automatically by LilyPond. This sets the
@code{Voice.verticalDirection} property.
@item @code{\stemdown}@keyindex{stemdown}
Force stems, beams, and slurs to point down. This sets the
@code{Voice.verticalDirection} property.
@item @code{\stemup}@keyindex{stemup}
Force stems, beams and slurs to point up. This sets the
@code{Voice.verticalDirection} property.
@item @code{\traditional}@keyindex{traditional}
Used for setting the @code{Score.beamquantisation} property. Is
equal to 2.
@item @code{\up}@keyindex{up}
Used for setting various direction properties. Is equal
to 1.
@end table