Text & Phrasing

Phrasing--Textual

After determining the nature of the text in general and of its parts, read each verse carefully, considering the textual phrasing. MARK PHRASE BREAKS (commas or verse numbers) or continuations (small slurs) in the text wherever needed, and wherever a break or a legato connection could help clarify the meaning.

In a hymn, you might use the verse number rather than a comma to indicate a phrase break. This draws attention to the precise verse that receives the break, communicating more quickly to the eye than does a simple comma.

Where a break occurs in all verses at the same point, mark a vertical line within the text (see red lines) or a “V” above the treble staff.

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